Jessica Lomatewama, Hopi Basket Weaver. 2024
Jessica practices the Third Mesa style of Hopi basketry, known as Yungpyapu, and will continue teaching her adult daughter, Stephanie Marie Lomatewama-Kayquoptewa.
Jessica’s journey in basketry began in her early twenties, although she had long been drawn to the art. She befriended a lady in her village, Idella Kursgowva, who eventually became her mentor, guiding her in gathering materials, preparing them, and building a supply. Jessica practices the Third Mesa style of Hopi basketry, known as Yungpyapu (also spelled Yungyapu), distinguished by its use of a frame that extends outward, around which rabbit brush is woven. Unlike the coil method used by Second Mesa weavers, Jessica’s baskets are made with a specific plaited technique, creating a unique texture and structure. The process begins with a set of carefully chosen sticks, and over time, the basket takes shape with rabbit brush and yucca fibers, leading to intricate, durable designs. Jessica enjoys weaving the Douglass Fir pattern, which features a reversible whirl design, showcasing her mastery and personal style within the Third Mesa tradition.
The art of basketry is deeply rooted in Hopi culture, with its origins tracing back to the tribe’s mythical history. It holds significant cultural meaning and is still used in traditional ceremonies today. Baskets are used in various cultural contexts, such as during ceremonies when women sing, or as platters when men make prayer offerings. They are also part of important rituals like weddings and foot races, where baskets can serve as prizes. The making and use of baskets are seen as a way to continue the Hopi way of life and preserve cultural traditions.
For example, in traditional Hopi weddings, the groom’s family provides a wedding robe, while the bride gathers four different types of corn, including blue and white corn. She places the corn along with other items into a special basket, which serves as a symbolic gift for the afterlife.
Jessica harvests rabbit brush and dune bloom from late August until early November. Dune bloom and yucca can be found close to her home, but for rabbit brush, she must travel further. “I used to go down the hill from where we live to find rabbit brush, to gather,” she says, “But now we drive 45-50 miles to find some — it’s running out because people are building homes.”
“When I started learning, it was basically for ceremony,” she says. “Today it has also become a way of financially making ends meet, and I continue to weave for ceremonial purposes.”
“When I am out [selling] even Hopi people, say “I wish I knew how to make that,” and I invite them to come by to learn, but they never do, because they are very busy working. It’s very labor intensive, and it’s hot in the sun to gather.” Fortunately, her village, Hotevilla, remains strong in weaving with more than a dozen weavers. Jessica sells at various Indian markets including The Heard, Santa Fe Markets, Museum of Northern Arizona, and annually demonstrates at the Grand Canyon.