Otis Polelonema

Otis Polelonema (1902–1981), was a Hopi painter, illustrator, weaver, song composer, and educator. He lived in Shongopovi most of his life. He also worked as a WPA artist in the mural division. His native name in the Hopi language is Lomadamocvia which translates to "springtime".

In 1914, he attended the Santa Fe Indian School, under the supervision of John DeHuff. He remained in Santa Fe until 1920, then returned to his hometown. However, sometimes 1972 is attributed as his year of death.

Polelonema's artwork can be found in museum collections, including at the Heard Museum, Gilcrease Museum, McNay Art Museum, New Mexico Museum of Art (formerly Museum of New Mexico Art Gallery), National Museum of the American Indian, and the Detroit Institute of Arts museum. His work is also part of the Elizabeth Willis DeHuff Collection of American Indian Art at Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Yale University.

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