Milland Lomakema One Horn Hopi God [SOLD]

This 1973 painting by Hopi artist Milland Lomakema (Dawakema) is an exceptional example of modern Hopi fine art created right at the inception of the historic Artist Hopid movement.

The subject is the Hopi One Horn Deity Kwanitaqa.  The composition centers on the iconic sweeping single horn associated with the Hopi One Horn Society (Kwan Society). The One Horn deity is a powerful guardian figure associated with the Underworld, spiritual transitions, direction, and protection.

The large, exaggerated horn arches dramatically across the canvas, filled with intricate, stylized textures resembling falling rain, seeds, and tracks (hoof/claw prints) along its path. Prominent terraced formations surround the figure, representing sacred rain clouds and the passage between worlds. Near the bottom stepped terrace, two stylized figures in traditional dress sit bent forward holding staffs or walking sticks, symbolizing Hopi elders, priests, or pilgrims in prayer/contemplation.

At the very base, dynamic wave/zig-zag borders evoke flowing water or earth/migration symbols.

Modernist Synthesis: As a core element of the Artist Hopid aesthetic, the painting blends traditional kiva-mural and ceremonial iconography with 20th-century geometric abstraction, surrealism, and color field influences.

Signature & Date: Lower bottom center is distinctly signed DAWAKEMA 73. The year 1973 holds special significance as it marks the official founding of Artist Hopid.

About the Artist: Milland Lomakema (Dawakema) was born at Hopi Pueblo in 1941 and passed away in 2021. He was a founding member of Artist Hopid — formed in 1973 with Michael Kabotie (Lomawywesa), Terrance Talaswaima (Honvantewa), Neil David Sr., and Delbridge Honanie (Coochsiwukioma). Their mission was to express Hopi philosophy, document history, and redefine contemporary Native art on their own terms.

This painting is included in the gallery's 50th Year anniversary celebration with a tribute to Native paintings. It expands the gallery's art exposure to new levels. The Artist Hopid paintings are unlike the traditional New Mexico Pueblo artists' works traditionally shown at the gallery, so it is a pleasure to feature a new style of art for the gallery's art collectors.

Condition: Good condition with minor scratches at the edge near the frame.

Provenance: this original painting by Milland Lomakema of a One Horn Hopi God is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: Hopi Kachina Dolls with a Key to their Identification, by Harold S. Colton, University of New Mexico Press, Albuquerque 1959.

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