Built atop a sheer-walled, 370-foot sandstone bluff in a valley studded with sacred, towering monoliths in New Mexico, Sky City has remained suspended in time for two millennia. The village is the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America today, and it is recognized worldwide for its unique art and rich culture.
Acoma pots are created from local, slate-like clays that were traditionally fired to produce a pure white vessel. When these clays are fired, they are strong enough to allow the production of very thin walls. The Acomas use two types of paints, which are vegetal or mineral based, for their intricate designs. The white backgrounds allow the Acoma potters to create crisp, detailed black images, as well as rich polychrome designs.
The Acoma potters’ designs incorporate rainbows, geometrics, and other historic and prehistoric motifs. These patterns are inspired by prehistoric Mimbres designs. Many anthropologists believe that the Acoma and Laguna people are ancestors of the prehistoric Mimbres people who migrated up from the Silver City, New Mexico area; hence this group's interest in the Mimbres.
Some of the world’s most recognized Acoma potters come from the Chino, Lewis, Cerno, Garcia, Aragon, Torivio, Antonio, Vallo, Concho, and Sandoval families.
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