Lawrence Namoki

High on the mesas of Hopiland lived one of the most successful Native Amrican potters today. His name was Lawrence Namoki. His pottery is recognized throughout the world.

Lawrence resided at First Mesa (Polacca), Arizona. He grew up in the village of Walpi until he started attending high school off the reservation at Phoenix Indian High School in Phoenix, AZ. After completion of High School, he enlisted in the Army and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. He served and trained with Special Forces (Green Berets). After completion of his Armed Forces duty he returned home to be among his people.

His first attempt at Hopi art was carving Katsina dolls. He was a successful doll carver. His reputation as a highly successful miniature Katsina doll carver brought him fame in the art world.

Lawrence wanted more experience in Hopi art, so in 1983 he challenged himself to be a successful potter. He took two years practicing with natural clay. In 1985, he made his debut at the Eight Northern Pueblos Artists and Craftsmen Show in San Ildefonso, New Mexico. He entered a masterpiece pot, Hopi Ceremonial Calendar, and the piece won the Governor’s Award-Best of Show.

In 1996, two of his pots became part of the Smithsonian Institution permanent collection which brought more recognition at the international level of the art world. At this time, more of his pots are being added to the permanent collections of Museums, galleries and private collectors. One of his pots is in the home of one of the members of the Royal Family of England.

“I only attend one public show a year and that’s the famous Santa Fe Indian Market sponsored by SWAIA. I attend this show because of the competition from other artists. This market will show me where I’m at on a scale level as compared to other artists.”

“The type of artwork I do cannot be taught in any educational institute. Only a true Hopi can do what I do and he must understand the Hopi culture and the life of a Hopi to do artwork of this type. All my artwork on pottery is based on Hopi Culture and Myths.”

Lawrence was involved in many sacred ceremonies within his Hopi village of Walpi, so it takes time away from creating pottery.

Lawrence worked on pottery every day of his life. The Creator took him home in 2020.

Watch Lawrence on Youtube.com when he was interviewed about the Hopi Prophesies
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_LWTAYU8k4