Ceramic pots or “ollas” are traditionally made from locally harvested clay and sand. The most common techniques for forming clay pots include paddle, anvil, and coiling. Pots were used as cooking and storage vessels by cultures of the southwest. Ollas range in size and can be plain or decorated.
Kathleen Vance is Tohono O’odham and San Carlos Apache. While preparing for her daughters coming of age ceremony, Kathleen met an elder woman and traditional potter who taught her how to harvest and process traditional clays in order to make a ceremonial pot for her daughter. This experience provided the foundational skills and knowledge that would inspire her to expand her skills set and teach others. Kathleen considers herself to be a traditional utilitarian potter, but also uses clay to make whistles and effigies.
