The Hopi tribe in Arizona traces kinship through the female line. In other words, it operates in matrilineal clans. In support of this unique social order, only women and girls are given kachina dolls, which represent the spirit of Katsinam that keeps their world in balance. These dolls constitute key phases in female lives, and become more intricate along the way. “They teach us to have faith in ourselves and our prayers for rain,” says Colleen Lucero, the managing director of the Hopivewat Learning Center. “They bless us with gifts to enrich our lives; and their kindness teaches us to treat each other with respect.” This show at the Brooklyn Museum, guest curated by Lucero, is the first to present Hopi Kachina dolls from the underrepresented female perspective, and features 53 dolls among its over 120 works. Video interviews explore each artist’s commitment to Hopi culture. —Maggie Turner