HOPI R2 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

Duane Koyawena and Joe Mastroianni with HOPI R2.

It moves, it beeps, it spins, and it emits sweet, metallic gurgles. The HOPI R2, part of The Force is With Our People at the Museum of Northern Arizona, is an incredible blending of art and technology. Duane Koyawena (Hopi/Tewa) and Joe Mastroianni worked together on this project, with Joe building the droid and Duane painting Hopi symbols on its exterior.

Duane and Joe hard at work on HOPI R2.

HOPI R2's inner world.

HOPI R2 coming to life under Duane's paintbrush.

​The exhibit’s deadline has been extended several times and will be up through October 25th. If you haven’t yet had a chance to see HOPI R2 and the rest of the incredible exhibit that merges regional Indigenous cultures with Star Wars themes, be sure to stop by. Note that due to COVID-19 the museum’s hours are reduced and you must purchase tickets in advance through their website.

Come see and experience HOPI R2 at the Museum of Northern Arizona!

Written by Sara Wilbur​.