A Dance for a Young Chiricahua Girl

In A Dance for a Young Chiricahua Girl, Hyrum Joe captures a Chiricahua Apache Crown Dancer in the midst of a Ga’an Dance. The Ga’an Dance is traditionally intended to protect communities from enemies and disease, and is held on the final night of na’ih’es (girls’ womanhood initiation ritual), also known as the Sunrise Ceremony. Hyrum Joe’s attention to detail has brought this Ga’an dancer to life. Each facet of his traditional garb is beautifully rendered in meticulous graphite strokes enhanced with subtle watercolor washes, from his body art and painted wand “swords” to his black and red feathered mask and the glyphs on his sacred crown. A Dance for a Young Chiricahua Girl is a beautiful example of cherished heritage represented with deep respect and exceptional talent, making it a standout treasure suitable for any collection.