Lydia Quezada at Chimayo Trading del Norte
LYDIA QUEZADA IS THE YOUNGER
sister of Juan Quezada, who was featured in Tempo recently. Juan Quezada revived the prehistoric pottery tradition of the region and taught a generation the techniques and design that now comprise the renowned art form of Mata Ortiz pottery.
Lydia was his first student and one of the most talented to emerge from the movement.
It was after one of the first shows promoting Mata Ortiz pottery in New Mexico that Juan Quezada met Maria Martinez of San Ildefonso Pueblo. She shared the technique of reduction firing, an ancient technique she had rediscovered that turns clay from its natural red color to black during firing.
Quezada passed the technique on to Lydia who developed her own signature style: the three blacks.
Lydia Quezada’s three blacks consist of a smooth matte black finish, areas of gleaming high polished black, and the addition of a linear design in black. Along with her precision of design and elegant construction, she is recognized as a matriarch in the small village of Mata Ortiz.
“Chimayo Trading has a long and deep relationship with Lydia Quezada, who traveled to our gallery 12 years in a row to demonstrate her techniques,” says Gabriel Abrums of Chimayo Trading del Norte.
Chimayo Trading del Norte specializes in Native American art, Pueblo pottery, Mata Ortiz pottery, Navajo rugs and fine art.
Representing the best contemporary artists and historical classics, Chimayo Trading del Norte is where history meets art in Northern New Mexico. Here, you will find exceptional quality, knowledgeable service and great prices all under one roof. Located in one of the oldest Taos settlements under the shadow of the world-famous church of Saint Francis de Asís, they are a familyowned and operated gallery with four generations in the Native American and Fine Art business.
Lydia Quezada is fast becoming an icon like her brother, Juan, who recently passed away, ensuring the Mata Ortiz tradition continues.