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Mata Ortiz Pottery Show & Sale

Sat, May 02

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Museum of Indigenous People

Spend the day immersed in the artistry of Mata Ortiz pottery as master potters shape, paint, and fire their work using traditional techniques passed down through generations, with the opportunity to purchase and take home pottery the same day for a unique cultural experience.

Mata Ortiz Pottery Show & Sale
Mata Ortiz Pottery Show & Sale

Time & Location

May 02, 2026, 10:00 AM – May 03, 2026, 4:00 PM

Museum of Indigenous People, 147 N Arizona Ave, Prescott, AZ 86301, USA

About the Event

Mata Ortiz Pottery Show, Live Demo & Sale

Experience the beauty and tradition of Mata Ortiz pottery, a contemporary revival of ancient Mogollon ceramics discovered near the archaeological site of Casas Grandes (Paquimé) in Chihuahua, Mexico.


Named after the nearby town of Mata Ortiz, this distinctive style was revived in the mid-20th century by artist Juan Quezada Celado, who taught himself to recreate the ancient forms and later refined them into a modern artistic movement. By the 1970s, Quezada was sharing his techniques with family and neighbors, transforming Mata Ortiz into an internationally recognized center of ceramic artistry. Through the support of collectors and cultural advocates, the pottery gained recognition in the United States and beyond, appearing in galleries, museums, and cultural institutions.

Today, Mata Ortiz pottery is celebrated for its intricate hand-built forms and detailed surface designs. Each piece is individually crafted and valued as fine art rather than functional ware.


Join us to watch a live pottery demonstration, meet the artist, and take home a one-of-a-kind piece the same day.


Event Details

  • What: Live pottery demonstration by Mata Ortiz potters

  • When: Sat & Sun 10am-4pm

  • Registration: No registrations required

  • Cost: Free event

  • Family Fun: Activities suitable for all ages

  • Special Feature: Live firing of pottery


Join Us for a Creative Experience!

Come and enjoy a day filled with creativity and family fun as you watch a live pottery demonstration. Participants will have the opportunity to take home their creations on the same day, making it a memorable experience for everyone!

Let People Know

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