This is just one of the most creative, unusual and yet thoughtful pieces we have had by Les Namingha. The jar is half painted on the top with cloud and lightning designs.  The opposite half of the top is mixed media with turquoise, coral and shell beads.  They are set with acrylic and mica gel to give them strength in their adherence.  They are placed in a random matter, almost as if they are being uncovered in the dirt or mud.  Les said of this piece:

This abstract, textured area represents the ‘artifacts” that, in my interpretation, will regenerate into new patterns.  The other areas of design contrast with the abstraction.  They represent the formality and structure.  I’m alluding to Pueblo ruins and modern Native hopes.”

There is thoughtful representation of current issues which are portrayed in this piece.  What is really wonderful and something that can only be felt, is that the area below the shoulder is fully etched!  The checkerboard snow pattern and then rows of colored corn “kernals” (the squares) have an amazing texture!  That texture complements the textural feel of the area with the coral and turquoise on the top half.  There is just something unique and exciting about this jar and maybe it is just how Les reinterprets history through the designs on his pottery.  The jar is signed on the bottom.