Jared Tso is one of the rising stars of Native pottery.  He is a grandson of potter Faye Tso and his pottery is exceptionally refined in technique and traditional in style.  Each piece is coil-built from traditional native Navajo clay and traditionally fired.  This tall jar is made from micaceous clay.  It has the inspirational form of the Navajo “tus” or water jar. The neck has three bands of raised design. There is inset silver throughout, creating an almost lightning-like appearance in the dark background. The piece was reduction fired and has a nearly metallic appearance.  It is a creative form and striking surface.  The jar is signed, “Jared Tso”.

Why the silver? Jared says,”Of course, there is the primary connection of the metal to Navajo jewelry.  The silver I use is a high purity silver used in electronics so it won’t tarnish.  I guess finding that comes from my electrical engineering background.  I added it to pieces to look like the top views of the water as it is running off the vessel or lightning in the night sky.  I like to think of it as adding a “sliver lining” to the work and the process of making pottery in a stressful time.”

Tó ałtaashchíín is a collection of stories and conversations that took place between my father and I. This body of work comes into frame at a time when I feel most vulnerable during the loss of my father, and yet equally aware of the power that is induced by my own transition into fatherhood.” Jared Tso, 2021