When we use the term "artist" in this project, we are referring to those who make beautiful and useful things with skill, practice, and talent. The Hopi language does not have a word for "art", nor does it distinguish among those we call "artists," "artisans," and "craftsmen" in English. In the Hopi language, the word tuhisma means "ingenious, skillful, talented, creative, inventive." Those who have this quality are said to be patient as well. A Third Mesa basketweaver who is tuhisma uses especially fine rabbitbrush, so it takes longer to weave a basketry plaque, but every Hopi who sees that basket will know she is patient and skilled.

Ruby Chimerica working on a basket

Several words in Hopi may describe "a work of art." One is tuhisveni, which translates literally as "ingenious-marking." (Hopi Dictionary 1998:658)

Alasvu "conscientious, resourceful, self-motivated" (Hopi Dictionary 1998:16). Someone who is alasvu knows what to do and does it without being told.

Unangwvàasi means "heartfelt wish, hope, prayer." An artist "goes along with a heartfelt thought or wish"-unangwvàasi'yma. To have one's heart is something, to be committed to it is unàngpakiwta (Hopi Dictionary 1998:709-711)