Cochise County, AZ – February 16, 2025
The Amerind Museum hosted the Mata Ortiz Pottery Show February 14-16, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the rich artistry of Mata Ortiz pottery. The event showcased the works of renowned potters Hector Gallegos Jr., Laura Bugarini, and Ramiro Veloz, whose craftsmanship has earned international recognition.
Located in Texas Canyon off Interstate 10 near Dragoon, Arizona, the Amerind Museum was established in 1937 by William Shirley Fulton. It is dedicated to the research, education, and conservation of Native American cultures. Its 1,600-acre campus is situated in the ancestral homeland of the Chiricahua Apache, making it a fitting location to celebrate the continuation of indigenous and traditional art forms.
Mata Ortiz pottery originates from the small village of Mata Ortiz, Chihuahua, Mexico, located just over three hours from Douglas, Arizona. This ceramic style recreates the intricate designs of ancient pottery found at the Casas Grandes archaeological site, estimated to contain 2,000 rooms used as living quarters, workshops, and storage areas. The site’s predominant building material, adobe, reflects the deep history of ceramic artistry in the region.
Meet the Artists:
Hector Gallegos Jr.
Born in Chihuahua City in 1981, Hector Gallegos Jr. comes from a lineage of master potters. His parents, Hector Gallegos and Graciela Martinez, are well-known for their high-quality, collaborative pieces. While his parents specialized in geometrical designs, Hector Jr. developed his own style, incorporating etched designs into his pottery. His work has earned numerous awards at Mata Ortiz pottery competitions, including the Excellence Award for collaborative work with his wife, Laura Bugarini.
His pottery has been displayed at prestigious venues, including:
Southwest Museum (Los Angeles, CA)
Museum of Man (San Diego, CA)
National Museum of Folk Art (Mexico City, MX)
National Parks Exhibits (Tucson, AZ & San Antonio, TX)
Laura Bugarini
Born in Mata Ortiz in 1979, Laura Bugarini began making pottery at just 14 years old, learning from her mother and drawing inspiration from Paquimé designs. Over time, she developed her own unique painting style, earning national and international accolades.
Her work is admired for its exquisite precision, delicate hand-painting, and deep cultural roots.
Her many awards include:
2013 National Ceramic Award, presented by President Enrique Peña Nieto, one of Mexico’s highest honors for ceramists.
2015 Grand National Prize for Mexican Popular Art, making her the only woman from Chihuahua to receive this prestigious recognition in Mexico City.
Ramiro Veloz Casa
A rising star in the Mata Ortiz pottery community, Ramiro Veloz has earned recognition for his innovative designs and expert craftsmanship. His pieces blend traditional techniques with modern artistic influences, ensuring that the Mata Ortiz pottery tradition continues to evolve while honoring its origins.
The show at the Amerind Museum was not just an exhibition but a celebration of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and artistic evolution. Visitors had the opportunity to meet the artists, watch live pottery demonstrations, and purchase unique, hand-crafted pieces directly from the artisans.
To see upcoming events or more information on the museum, visit the Amerind Museum website here.
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