CHRIS FRAGUA
(Jemez Pueblo b. 1943 – present)
Christino Fragua was born in 1943 in the Jemez Pueblo and was taught the art of using the clay to create playful works of art by his mother, Grace Fragua and his Grandmother Emilia. He has been making pottery since 1955. All of his sisters are potters as well: Rose, Cindy, Bonnie, Emily & Carol. He comes from a very active family of potters. Chris is the oldest of all the children.
Chris gathers his clay from the grounds around the Pueblo of Jemez and constructs his art in the traditional way, uses natural slips and fires his pottery outdoors when whether permits but in a kiln during the winter. He has frequently collaborated with his wife Vera Fragua.
Chris Fragua specializes in animals (whether it be dogs, cats, buffalo or bears) and humorous figures, in the tradition of Jemez storytellers. He is particularly fond of Dalmatian storytellers with pups. He has a sense of humor and sensitivity for animals. He also produces Kosharis, mudheads, Santa's and Nativities.
Chris' pottery has been distinguished with prestigious wards such as the one in the Heard Museum Show.
PUBLICATIONS:
Bahti, 1996
Peaster, 1997
Hayes & Blom, 1996
Berger & Schiffer, 2000
Southwestern Pueblo Pottery by Gregory Schaaf, 2002
