Picuris, NM

Picuris Pueblo, located in northern New Mexico, is renowned for its rich tradition of pottery making, a craft that has been passed down through generations. The Picuris people, who are part of the Tanoan language family, have been creating distinctive pottery for over a thousand years. Their pottery is known for its finely crafted forms, intricate designs, and use of natural materials, such as locally sourced clay and plant-based pigments.

Traditional Picuris pottery is characterized by its bold geometric patterns, often inspired by nature, and its use of a distinctive burnishing technique that gives the pieces a smooth, shiny surface. Pottery played a central role in daily life, with items used for cooking, storage, and ceremonial purposes. Today, Picuris potters continue to produce functional and decorative pieces, blending ancient techniques with modern artistic expressions. The preservation of pottery-making traditions is central to the pueblo’s cultural identity and serves as a means of connecting with their ancestors and heritage.