Kachinas were central to the religion of the Hopi and Zuni Indians of the
Southwest.  The Indians believed these supernatural guardian spirits lived
in their own world high up in the mountains.  Every winter, on the
shortest day of the year, the kachinas supposedly traveled to the world of
humans and stayed with the community for six months, until the summer
solstice.  Kachinas were only visible during ceremonial dances, when
members of the tribe would impersonate them by wearing elaborate masks and
costumes.  Many Hopis and Zunis continue to practice their ancient
religion today, performing the rituals to pray for rain, abundant crops,
and the well-being of their communities.  Carved kachina dolls and
paintings like the one shown above, are among the best-known art forms of
the Southwest Indians.