Thomas Polacca Nampeyo, Hopi/Tewa Potter

Thomas Polacca Nampeyo, a Hopi/Tewa artist active from 1955 to the present, is renowned for his deep-carved polychrome jars. Breaking away from the traditional Sikyatki revival pottery styles of his family, Thomas embraced a contemporary approach. His carved pottery features intricate designs using multi-colored slips, often incorporating kivas, Katsinas, and other Hopi symbols.

As the son of Fannie Polacca Nampeyo and the grandson of Nampeyo of Hano, Thomas Polacca Nampeyo (1935-2003) had a rich artistic lineage. His siblings included Elva Tewaguna Nampeyo, Leah Garcia Nampeyo, Harold Polacca Nampeyo Sr., Tonita Hamilton Nampeyo, Elsworth Polacca, and Iris Youvella Nampeyo. Thomas was also the husband of Gertrude Polacca and the father of Gary Polacca Nampeyo, Fannie Myron, Delmar Polacca, Carla Claw, and Elvira Naha.

His innovative style combined deep carving techniques with vibrant colors, resulting in pottery that depicted kachinas, Hopi dancers, and animals associated with kachinas. These mural-like scenes captured Hopi religious rituals and ceremonies, showcasing Thomas Polacca's unique vision and skill3. His legacy continues to inspire admirers of Native American art and pottery.

Reference: Hopi-Tewa Pottery: 500 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf.

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Hopi Pueblo, Contemporary Pottery, Hopi/Tewa, Fannie Polacca Nampeyo, Nampeyo of Hano, Elva Tewaguna Nampeyo, Leah Garcia Nampeyo, Tonita Hamilton Nampeyo, Iris Youvella Nampeyo; Gary Polacca Nampeyo, Delmar Polacca, Carla Claw, Elvira Naha