Hand Painted & Beaded Gourd:
  By David Snooks


David is a Native American of Washoe Descent who produces unique hand-painted and beaded gourds. David's gourds are in private collection throughout the world and in several museums--California State Indian Museum, Ute Indian Museum, San Diego Museum of Man, Jesse Peter Native American Art Museum, and Museum of Natural History Pacific Grove. David is a guest artist at the Grand Teton National Park summer program.

The Washoe are traditionally from the Lake Tahoe region in California and the Carson valley area in Nevada. They were Hunter-Gatherers who later became know for their fine basketry. Lillian Snook's David's great-grandmother; Leta Miller, His grandmother; and his mother Juanita Snooks, were also basket makers. His mother specialized in making traditional cradleboards structured from the same willow weaving material gathered from traditional areas.

David's pieces are innovative and original in contrast to the traditional practice of obtaining permission to use an elder's design and then faithfully reproduce it time after time.

Although David has no formal art training, the influence of this parents and culture are reflected in his work. Traditional colors, themes, designs and materials (gourds and beadwork) characterize his work, but playful aspects of modern and non-traditional images also find their way into David's art.

Each group is an original. A careful balance of theme and style is worked onto the surface of each piece. The graphic image may be repeated, but the skillful application of the geometric designs and beadwork are always unique, with the shape and size of the individual gourd guiding the artist.

David's original work of Native American art have escalated in value as his gifted creations have attracted the attention of collectors. The gourd he has donated to the Westchester Rotary is valued at $250.-$300. His larger pieces sell from $800. to $1000.

How to Take Care of Your Gourd
Placing your gourd in direct sunlight will possibly cause the designs to fade. Because the ground has essentially turned into wood, the artist uses a wood floor paste wax to protect the images and provide its shine. If the gourd should start to dull over time, simply buff it again with a clean soft cloth. NOTE: You may add a little baby oil to the cloth while buffing to bring back the shine.

ENJOY YOUR GOURD!

For more about David Snooks visit his website: http://www.davidsnooks.com/

Contact David Via Email: david@davidsnooks.com

The Cozy Ring

 "Health is the vital principle of bliss,/ And exercise of health."
- James Thomson