Original Oil Pastel “Fragments of Symbolism” by Dan Namingha

Fragments of Symbolism is an original oil pastel by Dan Namingha, an artist widely recognized for bridging Hopi-Tewa cultural themes with the visual language of abstraction. In this piece, Namingha integrates traditional imagery — particularly references to Katsinas and ceremonial symbolism — within a nonrepresentational framework rooted in Abstract Expressionism. The result is a layered, interpretive composition that offers glimpses into ritual and meaning while honoring the sacred boundaries of his heritage.

With its refined color palette and gestural mark-making, Fragments of Symbolism reflects Namingha's mature style, in which he distills the essence of cultural symbols rather than depicting them literally. The interplay of form and color invites contemplation and encourages a deeper engagement with the unseen forces and ancestral rhythms that inform Hopi and Tewa lifeways.

Dan Namingha (b. 1950) has received widespread acclaim for his contributions to contemporary Native American art. He began his career as a realist painter but shifted toward abstraction in the early 1970s, a transition influenced by artist and educator Otellie Loloma. Since then, his work has been exhibited in over 35 shows, including more than 16 solo exhibitions. He has been featured in more than 32 publications and received major commissions for public art, including a large-scale work for Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. Namingha's unique voice continues to elevate Native perspectives within the broader field of contemporary art.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: This Original Oil Pastel "Fragments of Symbolism" by Dan Namingha is from a collector in Albuquerque.

Recommended Reading:

- The Art of Dan Namingha by Thomas Hoving

- Namingha - Timeless Land and Enduring Images, Palm Springs Desert Museum, Palm Springs, California. September 17 - November 10, 1991

TAGS:  Dextra Quotskuyva Nampeyo, Hopi Reservation, Annie Healing Nampeyo, Rachel Nampeyo, Otellie Loloma, Charles Loloma, Native American Paintings, Dan Namingha