Milland Lomakema Hopi Painting “Two Horn Society God” [SOLD]

This striking piece is an original work by Milland Lomakema (1941-2021), a highly influential Hopi artist and a key member of the Artist Hopid — a group of visionary artists who sought to reinterpret traditional Hopi symbols through a modern, "Modernist" lens. Based on the iconography and Lomakema's style, here is a deeper look at the painting:

The Two Horn Society

The central figure represents a deity or member associated with the Hopi Two Horn Society (also known as the Ahl or Al Society). The two curved horns on the head are characteristic of this society. They often symbolize the ability to communicate with the spiritual world and the "two-hearted" nature of human existence that the society works to guide and correct.

The round, black-and-white face with a small square mouth is a classic representation of a Hopi deity or Katsina (spirit). The rigid, "votive" stance with hands held out is typical of Lomakema's work, representing a figure in a state of prayer or guarding a sacred space.

Symbolism and Composition

Lomakema was known for layering complex tribal meanings into his work. The turquoise "frame" around the figure often represents a Kiva entrance or the Sipapu (the sacred opening through which the Hopi believe they emerged into this current "Fourth World").

The use of earthy, textured tones is a hallmark of Lomakema's technique. While this is a painting (likely acrylic or gouache), he often applied the paint to create a sand-painting texture, mimicking the ritual sand art used in ceremonies. The arched shapes at the bottom likely represent clouds or shrines, common motifs in Hopi art that signify a request for rain and life-sustaining moisture.

About the Artist: Milland Lomakema (Dawakema)

A member of the Corn-Water Clan from Shungopavi, Lomakema was a self-taught artist who spent much of his life as a Hopi police officer and detective while painting in his spare time. In 1973, he co-founded the Artist Hopid group. Their goal was to move away from the "curio" art sold to tourists and instead create "fine art" that documented Hopi history and philosophy for future generations. You can see his signature "MILLAND LOMAKEMA" (sometimes he signed as Dawakema, his Hopi name) on the bottom left and right.

The frame and linen matte are very characteristic of the 1970s, which was the height of the Artist Hopid movement. Pieces from this era are particularly sought because they represent a revolutionary period in Native American art history where artists first began blending ancient religious symbols with contemporary abstract design.

Condition: original condition

Provenance: this Milland Lomakema Hopi Painting "Two Horn Society God" is from a client of Adobe Gallery. There is a Museum of Northern Arizona tag attached that indicates it was entered and sold at the 1971 Hopi Craftsman Exhibition. 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