Les Namingha
Ancient Origins
3 1/2"
H x 8 1/4" D
Born in 1968, Les Namingha
is one of the most prolific Hopi abstract artists of today. Since
his youth, Les has received valuable instruction at the hand
of this grandmother Rachel Namingha Nampeyo and his aunt Dextra
Quotskuyva Nampeyo.
He is the son of Emerson Namingha
and a Zuni mother. His cousins are Dan Namingha and Hisi Nampeyo.
As you can see, his family tree reads like a "who's who"
in Hopi fine arts.
Having received a degree in
design at Brigham Young University, Les took his contemporary
training back to his traditional roots and gave life to a style
of indigenous pottery all his own. Of course his designs are
influenced by both his Hopi and Zuni background - which is probably
why his pieces are so unique.
Having exhibited in nearly
all the major shows and venues, Les has rapidly attracted the
attention of savvy collectors and gallery owners. He has received
honors and awards at the Santa Fe Indian Market and the Heard
Museum Guild Market and Show - including the Judge's Choice Award.
Les was also named as one of the "artists to watch"
in 1998 by Southwest Art Magazine.
This spectacular piece represents
Les' skill as a contemporary artist with roots deep in an age
old tradition. He always uses native clays dug from his homeland,
and always practices the traditional art of outdoor, sheep-dung
firing.
His images alway incorporate
something drawing upon his tradition - yet his work is sometimes
abstract - and his occassional use of acrylic paints pushes the
envelope in pueblo pottery making.
We are proud to feature the
work of Les Namingha and we are always excited to see his newest
pieces and the progressive stance he takes in his work.
This particular piece is no
exception. His attention to detail is second to none. A close
look reveals many subtle nuances traditional to Les' Hopi and
Zuni roots. This is truly
a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
