Ancient Roots, Modern Expression: Mata Ortiz Pottery Takes Center Stage at Pima West Campus, Feb. 19
Tucson, AZ – Pima’s West Campus Visual Arts Gallery presents “Mata Ortiz – Pottery and Photography of the Chihuahuan Village,” an exhibition that intertwines the ancient artistry of Paquimé, and the contemporary Mexican village, Mata Ortiz, Chihuahua, with the vision of potter Jorge Quintana. Under the curatorial expertise of David Andres, this exhibit transcends the conventional boundaries of time and tradition.
Visiting Mata Ortiz contemporary artist Jorge Quintana, a master potter, showcases both the depth and breadth of his knowledge of Mata Ortiz pottery, seamlessly blending ancestral techniques with innovative processes. Quintana’s relentless experimentation with clay hues and mineral combinations elevates his creations, breathing new life into an ancient craft. Quintana will be working with ceramic students on Feb. 19, demonstrating traditional Mata Ortiz methods.
The exhibition also features loans from collections of both the Amerind Foundation in Dragoon, and the Tucson Museum of Art through the generosity of Eric Kaldahl, Ph.D., Amerind’s President, CEO and Chief Curator and Kristopher Driggers, Ph.D., Tucson Museum of Art’s Assistant Curator, Bernard and Jeanette Schmidt Curator of Latin American Art. Additionally on display is pottery from the private collections of Sue Nieland, President of Latin American Art Patrons, and LAAP members David and Julia Andres, Stevie Mack and Mike Grassinger, and Dan Leach. The scope of the exhibition is heightened by the presentation of photographs by several LAAP members from their tour of Mata Ortiz, including images of local potters creating their famous clayware. The exhibition not only displays the rich and beautiful tradition of Mata Ortiz pottery, but also emphasizes the vital role of cross-sector collaborations in furthering public education and preserving cultural heritage.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Pima’s Photography Department and Ernesto Esquer, Pima Department Lab Specialist for their invaluable contributions to this project, and to Earle K. Wheatley, Imaginative Materials & Design, Inc., for the generous donation of Plexiglass.
The Visual Arts Gallery invites the public to explore the intersection of tradition and innovation, offering a rare glimpse into the rich heritage of Mata Ortiz pottery. The exhibit runs Feb. 19-March 29, ensuring ample time for art enthusiasts, historians and the community to partake in this extraordinary cultural journey.
What: Pima’s Visual Art Gallery presents “Mata Ortiz – Pottery and Photography of the Chihuahuan Village”
When: Feb. 19-March 29, Reception: Feb. 19, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Visual Arts Gallery, Santa Rita Building (A), second floor, Pima Community College West Campus, 2202 W. Anklam Road, Tucson
The gallery and its programs are free and open to the public.
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. 520-206-6942
Take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in this unique artistic narrative.