Hopi Corn
Marlene Sekaquaptewa
Hopi, Hotevilla, Third Mesa, Arizona
1996
Cotton/polyester with polyester filling
59" x 78 1/2”
MSUM 1996:133.1
Photo by Doug Elbinger, all rights reseved by the Michigan State University Museum

Corn has played an important role in Hopi life, and images of corn oftern appear in many Hopi arts. Marlene Sekaquaptewa (Hopi) of Hotevilla, Third Mesa, Arizona, used corn as the quilting pattern in this Irish chain quilt titled, "Hopi Corn". Cornmeal and cobs of corn are used in Hopi baby-naming ceremonies in traditional ways to ensure a long life and strength for the baby. Quilts are given to babies along with their clan names.

From To Honor and Comfort Native Quilting Traditions