All Kiva Artists
Kiva Fine Art
El Centro de Santa Fe
102 East Water Street
Santa Fe, NM 87501505-820-7413
505-820-7414 (fax)
info@kivaindianart.com
Spencer Nutima
The eldest of six children, Spencer was born into the Greasewood Clan of Old Oraibi village, his father being of the Coyote Clan of Moencopi. Spencer spent his early childhood with his mother and grandfather, Jimmy Kewanwytewa, in Flagstaff at the Museum of Northern Arizona, while his father was away in the military. During this time contact was maintained with relatives at the different Hopi villages.
When Spencer’s father returned from Korea, the family moved to Phoenix, where he attended school. After graduation from Washington High School, Spencer attended Glendale Community College for one year. Afterwards, he went to Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kansas, where he earned a certificate in auto mechanics.
While attending Haskell, Spencer met and married Charlene Naranjo of Santa Clara Pueblo, where they raised their children Sharon and Orin. At this time, Spencer worked for the Indian Health Service as a laborer, tractor operator, and then construction inspector. Spencer and Charlene later separated.
In 1990, Spencer went into the arts full-time, eventually returning to Old Oraibi where he lives today. During this time, Spencer met Jeanne Tenorio and had a son, Nahongvita, nicknamed “Bow” in reference to his Hopi name.
The year 2000 began with Spencer’s endeavor into the weaving arts. His clan father, Barry Polyumptewa, introduced him to the finer points of Hopi belt weaving and Spencer took it from there.
The most significant influences on his art are his Grandfather, Jimmy Kewanwytewa; Uncle Pierce Kewanwytewa; and Frank Nutima, his paternal grandfather – all are well-known Hopi artists themselves. Because Spencer observed these elders in their creative processes, he wished to maintain their traditions. Spencer continues to observe all forms of today’s artists, always learning.
“The world has a lot to teach us through the experiences of life, death and rebirth. My life has been wonderful in all its aspects. I am happy to share this in my art and daily living.”