Juanita Suazo Dubray facts for kids

Juanita Suazo Dubray (born 1930) is a talented Native American potter. She comes from Taos Pueblo, a community in New Mexico. Juanita has lived in Taos Pueblo her whole life. Her family has lived there for many generations.

Her mother, Tonita, used to make traditional pottery. This pottery was made from a special clay called micaceous clay. It was used for everyday things. Juanita became interested in this type of pottery in 1980. Before that, she worked as a pharmaceutical technician.

Her Artistic Journey

Starting Pottery at 50

Juanita started making pottery when she was 50 years old. A kind neighbor encouraged her. This neighbor even gave her some clay to begin. When she first started, Juanita made unique pots. She used old designs and symbols on them. These first pots were all made from micaceous clay.

Creating Unique Designs

Later, Juanita began using more modern designs. She made pots from both micaceous clay and white clay. She also started adding sculptures to her pottery. Many of her pieces have shapes like corn, turtles, lizards, and kiva steps. These shapes stick out from the pot. Her corn design is now her most famous symbol.

Juanita often adds traditional decorations too. These include rope-like edges. She also uses special patterns around the rims. Sometimes, she adds loop handles to her pots. Besides pots, Juanita has made other sculpted objects. These include scenes of the Nativity and storyteller dolls.

Becoming a Master Potter

Juanita taught herself how to make pottery. She has become very skilled at making traditional micaceous pottery. Her works are truly beautiful pieces of art. She has shown her pottery at many important events. These include the famous Santa Fe Indian Market. She also attended the Denver Indian Market.

In 1988, she won first place at the San Ildefonso Eight Northern Indian Market. In 1994, she was named a Master Potter. This honor came from the School of American Research. She was invited to a special meeting for micaceous pottery artists. Juanita was one of only ten master potters to attend. In June 2004, she also taught a workshop. This workshop was at the Taos Art School. She taught others how to make traditional Taos Pueblo micaceous pottery.