Al Qoyawayma #121407

$3,500.00

Al calls this new double sided jar a “wish jar”. I learned so much from him about the history of the design work. He says, “the design on the Wish piece is based on an ancient Sikyatki bowl design showing butterfly and flowers.” He has even shown me a photo of that Sityatki bowl which is now housed in the Museum of Natural History storage and exhibit facility in Maryland, next to Washington DC. That bowl was found in the major 1895 archeological excavation of the village of Sikyatki, First Mesa. Al sent me a photo of “Polingaysi” which was his inspiration for that design. We’ve added that photo here, as the last photo in the group.

The colors of the “mosquito man” are so beautiful, set against the highly polished tan clay. The other side shows a pueblo cliff dwelling that has areas that are recessed, and the beautifully carved. The detailed work is extraordinary. Notice the keyhole openings and the various levels of topography. This is a terrific example of the remarkable work by Al Q.

6 1/2″ high by 3 1/2″ diameter

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Al Qoyawayma

“Al Q” was raised in Southern California when his parents had left the reservation in the 1930’s. For many years, Al worked in northern California at Litton Industries developing high tech guidance systems and air borne star trackers. He had received a degree in mechanical engineering, and also a Master’s in mechanical and control systems engineering. He often encourages young Native Americans to enter in sciences as a study area. He founded the American Indian Science and Engineering Society in 1977. Al is able to incorporate his creative, spiritual side with his scientific side, and he creates some absolutely incredible pottery.

All his work in clay is built in the traditional method of coiling. He then stretches his clay – creating that overall effect of elegance and fluidity. He creates architectural type designs in clay – Corn Maidens, Kokopelli, Mesas, and butterflies – all in relief work. Each piece he creates is quite spectacular and unique. You can always identify his work as pottery from “Al Q”.

In his artist’s statement Al Q says.” “By Grace my Creator gives me everlasting hope. My clay gives me an artist’s life. The spirit of my work reflects the soft hues, shadows and forms of the high desert. The life of my work has its roots in a timeless culture, the mystery of our origins, and the links to Mesoamerica and beyond.”

Al’s work is displayed in many prominent museum permanent collections: The Denver Art Museum, The Heard Museum, The Taylor Museum, The Millicent Rogers Museum, the Museum of Northern Arizona, and others.

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