Artist Amil Pedro instructs students, below, on the process of preparing gourds for painting at Ira H. Hayes High School. Pedro often works with students to pass on his skills to a new generation of artists. His paintings are on display at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino.
Casa Blanca- Amil Pedro has been tantalizing the art world for many years. His latest engagement showed his dedication to the younger generation as he instructed a high school class during a special visit on Jan. 21, 2010. “We invited Mr. Pedro to come and show them how he prepares the gourds for painting and for art or for making the rattles for singing,” said Eugenia Apkaw, Pima Language and Culture teacher at Ira H. Hayes High School.
Pedro, who resides in D5, shared his background with the class and his introduction into the art world. “I started competitions when I was 14 years old,” said the artist.
Ira H. Hayes High School students prepare gourds for painting
He made money for clothes as a teenager from his art dealings. His output as an artist received a jolt when he retired from the State of Arizona. “When I retired, I went right back into it.”
After the class listened to his story, they selected a gourd for preparation. They scrubbed the gourd till the surface was smooth then the top was removed and the inside was hollowed out. “It is important to learn everything that is in our culture,” said Apkaw who teaches the language and other cultural lessons.
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