Madeline Naranjo

Madeline Naranjo, born in 1971, is a fine young potter who combines an excellent polish with unusual carved designs. She is named for her grandmother (Madeline Naranjo) who is a well respected potter. Madeline has been potting since 1991 when she was taught by her grandmother (her mother was not a potter). She is a full time potter who has devoted herself to preserving the ancient craft of the Santa Clara region She produces high quality pottery which is truly representative of her people. She was instructed and encouraged by a Santa Clara potter named Julie Gutierrez. “I will always be grateful that Julie took the time to help me. These days I gather the clay and volcanic sand myself, and do all the processing of the materials. The designs are still inspired from things I may see or encounter in everyday life, but also from events that may be occurring or affect me or my children’s lives. A lot of the designs I create are actually inspired from my children, such as their Indian names and even my grandson. I do all the work for the pots I create these days. I love my “job” as a potter and working with my mother clay has truly been a blessing in my life as well as my children’s lives. Each time I work I think, wow how lucky I am to be able to “play” as a way to make a living! I am enjoying the “challenge” of working in red pots” Madeline has won awards at recent Santa Fe Indian Markets. Her expertise in carving really shines through. Currently, she has been spending time working on red polished pieces. She is doing a terrific job on them. Her polishing is excellent and her carving is very deep and clean. She also spends quite a bit of time sanding her work well, so the matte areas are smooth when they are in contrast to the polished work. We are pleased to show you her most recent works.