María de Jesús Nolasco Elías facts for kids

María de Jesús Nolasco Elías (born December 8, 1944, died 2000) was a talented Mexican potter. She came from Ocumicho, a small town in Michoacán, Mexico. This town is famous for its bright and colorful ceramic figures.

Discovering María Nolasco Elías, a Master Potter

María de Jesús Nolasco Elías was a very imaginative artist. She created unique ceramic pieces. Her work showed her special way of seeing the world.

Her Amazing Art

María's pottery was full of imagination. She made figures like devils coming out of flames. She also created animals that seemed to be eating each other. Some of her pieces showed scenes from the life of Christ. These often had special touches from her local culture. For example, she once made a Last Supper scene where Jesus was eating a watermelon!

She also crafted beautiful mermaids and sun faces with big smiles. María could even make portraits of real people. She was also known for her "trees of life." These are traditional Mexican sculptures that tell stories.

How She Made Her Pottery

María Nolasco Elías made her art in two ways. Some pieces she shaped by hand. Others she made using molds. She used local clays found near her home. After the pieces dried, she would polish them carefully with a stone. This made them smooth and shiny.

Sharing Her Art with the World

María's amazing work was shown in many places. In 1993, her pottery was displayed at the Museo de Arte Moderno in Mexico City. Her art also traveled to different exhibitions outside of Mexico.

After she passed away, María was honored for her talent. In 2001, the Fomento Cultural Banamex named her a "grand master." This title celebrates artists who are truly excellent in their craft.