Portrait of Virgil Ortiz
Pottery
Virgil Ortiz
Pueblo of Cochiti
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 Place — Diverse Art Forms2025
First Place — Best of Division in Utilitarian Objects2025
First Place — Viib: Category 2804 - Boundary in Diverse Art Forms2025
First Place — Iib. Category 605 - Figures/Manas in Pottery2024

