This piece by Virgil Ortiz is inspired by the classic monos figures and their use of social commentary.  The figure is made from native clay and painted with bee-weed (black) and red clay slips.  This piece was entitled, “Smoking, Hot”.  She has a cigarette in her hand and a painted squash blossom necklace around her neck.  She is painted with a “fringe” halter top and geometric design shorts.  Her long boots are slipped with red clay.  Virgil is always able to create a commentary on people and society through his clay work and the monos figures.  The Monos figures were originally made at Cochiti Pueblo in the 1880s as a cultural response to the arrival of people on the railroads. The figure was made in 2009.  It is signed, “Virgil Ortiz”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.