Northland Pioneer College’s Fine Arts department is pleased to announce a special visit and demonstration by artist José Martinez on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the college’s Show Low campus, Aspen Center, room 104.
Martinez is a ceramist from the historical Juan Mata Ortiz municipality of Casas Grandes in Chihuahua, Mexico. The town of Mata Ortiz is located in a region rich in prehistoric and Indigenous cultural history. Renowned for its archaeological significance, the nearby Casas Grandes site (or Paquimé – Spanish for Great Houses) showcases the Mogollon culture over a period spanning from 1130 AD to 1450 AD. The influence of the Mogollon culture extends from the Chihuahuan region of northern Mexico to northeastern Arizona and western New Mexico.
Particularly unique to the area, Paquimé pottery reflects the progression of the Mogollon people’s evolution in the region. In the 1980’s, the town of Mata Ortiz experienced an artistic renaissance of sorts in the craftsmanship of Paquimé pottery. Spearheaded by a local artist, Juan Quezada, area artists began studying ancient shards from the Casas Grandes and surrounding historic Indigenous sites. They sought to replicate the civilization’s early designs using both historical and contemporary materials and techniques. Unique characteristics and artistic styles emerged, displaying regional and individual significance. In the Mata Ortiz tradition, pottery craftsmanship is learned through family connections.
Artist José Martinez learned the craft of pottery from his uncle. He has been working with traditional Paquimé ceramics for over 30 years. His art is reflective of his own family’s traditions and the history of the Mata Ortiz region that extends back hundreds of years. His wife Suzy is also a potter and together they have passed the tradition down to their children.
On Tuesday, April 8, the public will have a chance to observe traditional Paquimé pottery making. The demonstration at NPC will involve Martinez’s ceramic building and decorating techniques and spread light on the historical significance of our region, the cultural influence of pottery in the southwest, and the area’s deep connections to northern Mexico. NPC art students will facilitate the public demonstration as part of their curriculum. Complementary refreshments and a reception will follow. A selection of Mata Ortiz artworks will also be available for purchase. All purchases are cash-only.
For more information and details, visit www.npc.edu/talon-art-gallery or contact Gallery Director and NPC Art Faculty Magda Gluszek at magda.gluszek@npc.edu.
