Pilo Mora, Mata Ortiz jar
Pilo Mora
1961-
Mata Ortiz
Alternative Name
Porfirio Mora Villalba
Classification
Ceramic
Dimensions
6 x 7 1/2 x 7 1/2 in. (15.2 x 19.1 x 19.1 cm)
Accession Number
2016.35.30.117
Credit
Gift of John W. Brinley
Memo / Artist Statement
Pilo finds painting designs to be the most interesting aspect of the entire process. He stresses that the most unique facet of his craft is his use of distinctive imagery and patterns on marbleized clay; he claims that he was the first among Mata Ortiz potters to paint designs on this type of clay. Pilo's ollas are further characterized by an overall richness of color that is achieved by polishing with saddle soap (grasa). When not using marbleized clay, Pilo generally employes white clay, sometimes painting black images only and ometimes combining black and red images. He sometimes creates an intricate maze-like pattern over the entire body of his ollas, including the bottom; this gives them a vibrant, dynamic quality.
Pilo comments that he does not look at books or photographs for design ideas, but, occasionally the creations of another potter will trigger him to try something differnt. In general, Pilo uses the same tools, techniques, clay, and paint as other Mata Ortiz potters, but instead of making all ofhis brushes from children's hair, he has made one that is "very fine" from fox hair.
Gilbert, B.; The Potters of Mata Ortiz, The University of New Mexico Art Museum, Albuquerque, 1995: 38.
Pilo comments that he does not look at books or photographs for design ideas, but, occasionally the creations of another potter will trigger him to try something differnt. In general, Pilo uses the same tools, techniques, clay, and paint as other Mata Ortiz potters, but instead of making all ofhis brushes from children's hair, he has made one that is "very fine" from fox hair.
Gilbert, B.; The Potters of Mata Ortiz, The University of New Mexico Art Museum, Albuquerque, 1995: 38.
Biography
Porfirio Mora Villalba, or Pilo Mora is a pioneer of Mata Ortiz pottery. He was born in 1961 in Juan Mata Ortiz, where he still lives. His interest in Mata Ortiz pottery began when he was 12 years old. When making a living as a farmer was difficult due to drought in the early 1980s, he began making pots. Emeterio “Telo” Ortiz, one of the early potters, taught him the technique. His inspiration comes from his love for the work and his efforts to improve it. By sourcing new clays and pigments to create new combinations, Pilo Mora brings originality to his work. He won 1st place for three consecutive years at the Concurso de Ceramica de Mata Ortiz (1995-1997) and 1st place at a national competition that took place in Puebla in 1994. His work has been exhibited at institutions including the Art Museum in the University of New Mexico, San Diego Museum of Man, Luna Mimbres in Deming, and The Riverside Museum. His work has been featured in publications such as, “The Many Faces of Mata Ortiz” and “Artes de Mexico”. He teaches many people his techniques to give them opportunity to make a living.
http://thecrucible.org/faculty-pilo-mora/
http://thecrucible.org/faculty-pilo-mora/
Date of Bio
Inscription
Pilo Mora
Display Shelf Location