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Virgil Ortiz
Portrait of Virgil Ortiz
Pottery

Virgil Ortiz

Pueblo of Cochiti
Booth
LIN W 745
Classification
Pottery

Traditional methods and materials: I reflect on every detail my mother and grandmother taught me about Cochiti Pueblo pottery. The process begins with digging the red clay and pumice and harvesting wild spinach to create black paint (pigment). We pit fire using cedar, aspen wood, and cow manure for added fuel. Though arduous, this method is invaluable, preserving both tradition and craftsmanship.

Awards
First PlaceDiverse Art Forms2025
First PlaceBest of Division in Utilitarian Objects2025
First PlaceViib: Category 2804 - Boundary in Diverse Art Forms2025
First PlaceIib. Category 605 - Figures/Manas in Pottery2024