This new jar by Tammy Garcia is one of her classic shapes with a round body and elongated neck.  The jar is carved with three “thunderbirds” as the design. The birds are inspired by jewelry of the Southwest from the 1940’s and 50’s.  The birds are deeply carved and polished a deep red.  Extending out from them are arrows which are polished tan.  Surrounding them are spiral designs which are simply slipped matte red.  The background she has texturized.  It is interesting to note the various levels of her carving and how she is able to use them to create shadows and emphasize the designs on her work.  Each of the three birds has in set turquoise stone.  The jar is signed on the bottom in the clay.  The last two photos are of the piece in process, which is always fascinating!  Tammy has won numerous awards for her pottery and been the recipient of the New Mexico Governor’s award.  It’s not surprising that with the intricate nature of her pottery she makes only about ten pieces of pottery a year.  Yes. Ten!  Yet each piece is unique and expands on her distinctive style and voice in the clay.

We are pleased to be the only gallery in the country to represent her new works in clay!