Dolores Curran #112002

$3,200.00

For the last year or so, we have been concentrating on Dolores’s miniature pots and plates. But this time, we have an incredible large, lidded, polychrome jar from her. I think it’s one of the most beautiful pieces of hers that we have had. Hand coiled, slipped with natural pigments, incised, and carved, it is remarkable. Fired outdoors, Dolores was nervous about it making it through that traditional process. Dolores is so skilled at achieving a balance between the polished and the matte areas. The polished shoulder band sets off the body of the jar so well. Even the bottom of this piece is highly polished and incised with more symbols.

I always ask Dolores to explain to me about her imagery and themes. Here is her response:
“So many elements are included in this piece. A corn growing above on the polished area, the sun shines to help it grow depicting two seasons – spring and summer. There are parrots on a branch where leaves are falling with an evergreen tree depicting fall and winter. There are avanyu representing water and life, clouds, mountains, bustle medallions, flowers, dragonflies, and step motifs. All these represent the respect we have in using feathers, evergreen trees, corn in our dances and prayers, respecting the seasons. I can picture all of this in our dances which we miss – hoping that soon through prayer, it will once again happen.” This narrative makes it even more special. The detailed incising on this jar is extraordinary. Even the lid is skillfully designed. Dolores calls this jar a “masterpiece” for herself, and I think you can see why – and agree with her!

6” high by 4 ½” wide

Categories: , Artist:

Dolores Curran

Santa Clara

Dolores Curran was born in 1954 into the Santa Clara Pueblo. Around 1977, she married Alvin Curran (deceased) and moved to San Juan. She made her first piece of pottery at age nine! Using the traditional methods of pottery making she learned from her grandmother, Dolores went on to develop her own style of contemporary hand polished, painted, and carved pottery. Known for her miniatures, she is one of the most precise etchers and painters we know. Dolores is a traditionalist. She breaks down the clumps of clay to form a fine powder form and hand mixes water with volcanic ash. Once the clay is mixed to a fine medium she then builds her pottery by using the coiling method. When the pots are dried, she then sands down the rough edges for a smooth finish. Then the painting process begins. Using paint from natural vegetation, she intricately designs her pots with numerous Pueblo symbols. Often, she uses the themes of avanyu clouds, feathers, bears, trees, rain, and mountains. She signs her work: Dolores Curran SCP. Her daughter, Ursula, and her sister, Geri Naranjo, are also talented potters, also specializing in miniatures.

For inquiries or to place on order
Please fill out this contact form, or call the gallery at 303-321-1071

    We accept VISA, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DISCOVER, MASTER CARD, personal checks, and money orders.
    LAY AWAY plans are available. (1/4 of the total as a down payment, followed by mutually determined monthly payments).