Nampeyo, Nolan Youvella

Nolan Youvella (1970-2020) was the son of Iris Nampeyo and Wallace Youvella Sr. His maternal grandmother was Fannie Nampeyo, his maternal great-grandmother Nampeyo of Hano. His paternal grandmother was Susie Youvella and his paternal great-aunt was Paqua Naha. Among Nolan’s siblings were Wallace Youvella Jr., Charlene Youvella and Doran Youvella. All of Iris’ and Wallace’ children were exposed to the pottery making process as they were growing up.

Nolan began producing pottery as a teenager, mostly buff ware jars with appliqués. Then he began adding light carving and sgraffito to his designs. His specialty was etching motifs that he found on rock walls around the Hopi mesas.