Mary Ellen Toya facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mary Ellen Toya
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| Born | 1934 |
| Died | 1990 (aged 55–56) |
| Nationality | Jemez Pueblo / American |
| Known for | Ceramics |
| Spouse(s) | Casimiro Toya, Sr. |
Mary Ellen Toya (1934–1990) was a talented Native American artist. She was a potter from the Jemez Pueblo in New Mexico. Mary Ellen was part of the Water Clan, a special group within her community. She was known for making beautiful and unique pottery, especially large "Storyteller" figures. She worked as an artist from about 1950 until 1990.
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Mary Ellen Toya's Family and Legacy
Mary Ellen Toya was married to Casimiro Toya, Sr. They had eight children together. Their children were Melinda Toya Fragua, Mary Ellen Toya (M. Ellen Toya), Judy Toya, Marie Roberta Toya, Yolanda Toya, Casimiro Toya, Jr., Etta Toya Gachupin, and Anita Toya. Mary Ellen was very proud to share her pottery-making skills with her daughters. This helped keep the traditional art alive for future generations.
The Art of Mary Ellen Toya
Mary Ellen Toya created many different types of pottery. She used special colors and techniques. Her favorite designs included kiva steps, terrace clouds, and cloud tracers. These designs often represent important elements from nature and her culture.
Types of Pottery
Mary Ellen Toya made several kinds of pottery:
- Storyteller figures: These are sculptures of people, often elders, telling stories to children. Mary Ellen was famous for making some of the largest ones.
- Jars and bowls: She crafted beautiful containers for everyday use or decoration.
- Plates: Her plates often featured her unique designs.
- Wedding vases: These special vases are used in traditional ceremonies.
She often used a style called matte polychrome. This means she used several colors that were not shiny. She also made pieces with red and black designs on a tan background.
Where to See Her Work
Mary Ellen Toya's pottery has been shown in art galleries. Her work is also part of important collections. This allows many people to see and appreciate her art.
Past Exhibitions
- In April 1994, Mary E. Toya and her daughter, Anita Toya, had an exhibit. It was called Traditional pit-fired Storytellers. This show took place at Bryans Gallery in Taos, New Mexico.
Museum Collections
- A Storyteller figure made by Mary E. Toya is part of a museum collection. You can find this ceramic piece at the Spurlock Museum of World Cultures. This museum is located in Urbana, Illinois.
See also
