Milland Lomakema Hopi Painting Germination or Prayer for Harvest

This striking piece is an original work by the renowned Hopi artist Milland Lomakema (1941-2021), who painted under the name Dawakema. Dated 1977, this painting belongs to a pivotal period in the artist's career, shortly after he became a member of the influential collective Artist Hopid.

Painting Details & Symbolism

While many of Lomakema's works from this era are untitled or carry general names like Germination or Hopi Symbolism, the specific iconography in this painting suggests a title related to agricultural blessing.

The figure is a stylized representation of a Flute Player (often associated with Kokopelli). In Hopi culture, the flute player is not just a musician but a powerful symbol of fertility, rain, and the ripening of crops.

The prominent corn plant represents life and sustenance. Notice the detailed "tassels" at the top and the ears of corn — these indicate a prayer for a successful harvest. The circle in the upper right with radiating lines is the Tawa (Sun Father), representing the warmth and energy required for life to flourish. The feather hanging from the flute is likely a Paaho (prayer feather), used to carry intentions and prayers to the spiritual realm.

About the Artist: Milland Lomakema (Dawakema)

Lomakema was a self-taught visionary from the village of Shungopovi at Second Mesa. He was a member of the Corn-Water Clan and the One Horn Society, which deeply informed the spiritual authenticity of his work.

In 1973, he co-founded "Artist Hopid" with other legends like Michael Kabotie and Neil David Sr. Their goal was to move beyond traditional "flat-style" Native art and use modern techniques (like the clean, graphic lines seen here) to express ancient Hopi values. His work is celebrated for its Modernist-Traditionalist fusion. He used bold, minimalist silhouettes and a restricted palette to create a sense of timelessness.

Lomakema's work is held in major institutions, including the Heard Museum in Phoenix and the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Condition: original condition

Provenance: this Milland Lomakema Hopi Painting Germination or Prayer for Harvest is from a client of Adobe Gallery. Displayed in Special Exhibit: Ancestral Symbols, Modern Masterpieces: Documenting the Sacred Narratives and History of the Hopi People at Adobe Gallery for its 50th Anniversary Celebration Santa Fe, NM, May 2026.

Reference: Broder, Patricia Janis. Hopi Painting: The World of the Hopis, Brandywine Press, New York. 1978

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Michael Kabotie, Terrance Talaswaima, Neil David, Sr., Native American Painting, Milland Lomakema