Darlene James

The Potter - Nampeyo photographed by Edward Curtis (left) and by John Graybill for The Descendants Project (right).

Descendants photo © Curtis Legacy Foundation 2025

Written by Shawnee Realbird

In the Arizona desert, the remnants of the ancient Hopi village of Sikyatki (1400-1625) echo stories of the past, particularly through its unique pottery style known for intricate designs and vibrant colors. This artistry played a pivotal role in shaping the work of Nampeyo, a renowned potter born in 1860, who sought to revive traditional Hopi pottery techniques. Fascinated by her ancestors' craftsmanship, Nampeyo collected pottery shards from Sikyatki, using them as inspiration for her own work with natural pigments.

Nampeyo's mastery of coiling and painting breathed new life into a fading tradition, allowing her to craft pottery that honored her heritage while appealing to a broader audience. Her skills captured the attention of Edward Curtis, who photographed her and her descendants, showcasing the enduring legacy of Hopi artistry.

One of those descendants is Darlene James, Nampeyo’s great-great-great-granddaughter. Darlene embodies her ancestor's creative spirit in the 21st century, skillfully blending ancient Sikyatki styles with her innovations. She feels a deep connection to her lineage, gathering clay and pigments from the same landscapes as those before her. Darlene’s pottery features symbols of nature, such as stylized birds and macaws, painted with vibrant colors that reflect the beauty of the world around her.

Nampeyo's legacy extends beyond her remarkable pottery; it stems from her philosophy of respect for the earth and the traditions passed down through generations. Darlene embraces this ethos, viewing the clay as a precious gift from Mother Earth that requires care and reverence. Through her art, she emphasizes environmental stewardship, linking her creations to a greater purpose and advocating for sustainable practices within her community.

As she hiked the red dust paths of her ancestors, Darlene was inspired by the history of the Hopi people and the stories embedded in the land. This connection fueled her passion for pottery, allowing her to bring the whispers of Sikyatki into her work. Growing up in a family of potters, she is proud to be a fifth-generation artisan, guided by the teachings of her grandmother, the late Rachel Namingha, who was Nampeyo's great-granddaughter. Their weekends spent together were filled with laughter, stories, and the unmistakable earthly-scent of wet clay, which nurtured Darlene's love for her craft.

Nampeyo’s artistry inspired generations, emphasizing the cultural significance of indigenous pottery and creating a market that appreciated such craftsmanship. As her work gained recognition beyond the borders of her village, she encouraged other Pueblo potters to celebrate their heritage, leading to a renaissance of indigenous art.

Today, Darlene James carries forward this legacy, infusing her pottery with the spirit of her ancestors. She understands that her artistry is not merely about aesthetics but a profound connection to her ancestor’s land. Through her work, Darlene honors the rich history of the Hopi, creating pieces that bridge the past with the present while inspiring future generations to cherish their cultural heritage.

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