Acoma Pottery
Traditional Acoma pottery is made using a slate-like clay found within the hills surrounding the Acoma Pueblo (Sky City). When fired using traditional methods, this clay allows the potters to form very thin walls, a common and sought after characteristic of Acoma pottery.
Even though these pots were traditionally hand-coiled, with hand-mixed clay and custom slip, some contemporary potters have chosen to save time and energy while constructing stunning pieces by using molds. It is also not unusual for pots to be kiln fired, rather than the traditional method, but the expression of the individual artist lies in the manner in which they chose to represent their art form. The difference can often be seen and felt since custom pieces tend to be thinner, lighter, and have a coarse interior.
Regardless of the approach, the hand painted design selection varies. Traditional designs include rainbow bands, parrots, and deer; or a black and brown motif with geometric pattern and impressively accurate fine lines. Orange and black are traditional colors, however, current artists have incorporated new, bright and vibrant colors as generations have passed. Hatching patterns symbolize rain, while lightning, thunder clouds and mountains are also represented. The influences of the cycle of life, water and sky are frequently used. New designs have become more detailed to catch the eye. The pottery of Acoma, aside from its prized artistic value, was originally functional. Pottery provided storage, cooking, and eating. Water jugs were used by the men of Acoma for long hunting trips or camping. Other pots were used as seed pots to store seeds for planting in the coming years. Today the pottery of Acoma is not only revered and collected for its unique artistic characteristics but also because of its immensely rich historical value.
