Raymond Chee

Hopi / Navajo

Born in 1961, Raymond Chee is the son of a Navajo father and Hopi mother. Since the Hopi is a matrilineal society, the children take their identity and clan affiliation from their mother, which makes Raymond an official member of the Hopi tribe.

Raymond is a welder by trade, but he began professionally carving Hopi kachina dolls after an accident. As a self-taught artist and carver, Raymond’s kachina dolls and other sculptures are known for well- proportioned anatomy, creative action, and intricate detail. His work is featured in many collections including the Schingoethe Center for Native American Cultures Museum at Aurora University in Illiniois.

Most recently, Raymond won best of class for the Sculpture division at the 2021 Santa Fe Indian Market.

Raymond's brother, Duwayne Chee, is also a very talented carver.