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SWAIA ARTIST Profile

Virgil Ortiz

Name
Virgil Ortiz
Tribe
Pueblo of Cochiti
Juried Classification(s)
Pottery

SWAIA Booth History

SFIM25
LIN W 745
SFIM24
LIN W 745
WIM25

2024 Best of Show Awards

First Place
Second Place
N/A
Honorable Mentions
N/A

2025 Best of Show Awards

First Place
Best Of Class in Diverse Art Forms
Best of Division in Utilitarian Objects
Viib: Category 2804 - Boundary in Diverse Art Forms
Second Place
N/A
Honorable Mentions
N/A
Portfolio Example & Artist Statement
Virgil Ortiz

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.