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  • "Knowledge Carries Us Forward" image 0
  • "Knowledge Carries Us Forward" by Madeline E. Naranjo
  • "Knowledge Carries Us Forward" by Madeline E. Naranjo
  • "Knowledge Carries Us Forward" image 0
  • "Knowledge Carries Us Forward" by Madeline E. Naranjo
  • "Knowledge Carries Us Forward" by Madeline E. Naranjo
"Knowledge Carries Us Forward" by Madeline E. Naranjo

"Knowledge Carries Us Forward" by Madeline E. Naranjo

$2,400

Clay
5 1/4" x 7 1/2"

Artwork Description:
Knowledge Carries Us Forward is a one-of-a-kind hand-carved pottery piece by Native American artist, Madeline E. Naranjo from Santa Clara Pueblo in New Mexico. Crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations, this elegant work of Native American pottery blends cultural storytelling, symbolism, and expert craftsmanship into a timeless collectible.

Made by A Native Artist

Original Artwork

Ships From Santa Fe, NM

About The Artwork

The dragonflies represent ancestors—those who came before and generously offered stories, teachings, and lived experience. The butterfly signifies openness transformed by receiving that guidance. Surrounding them is the collective knowledge that lives around us and carried forward.

Using traditional techniques passed down through her family, Naranjo’s meticulous carving and matte black finish embody both cultural continuity and personal interpretation. Made using the traditional outdoor firing process unique to Santa Clara Pueblo pottery, the vessel's rich black finish and fine carving details make it a standout for collectors of authentic Native American art, handmade ceramics, and Southwest home decor.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

MADELINE E. NARANJO

Madeline E. Naranjo is a potter from Santa Clara Pueblo, specializing in deep carved black pottery. She is a full-time potter who has devoted 33 years to preserving the ancient craft of her pueblo. Her style is known as traditional with a contemporary flair. The designs that one will find on her pots may be unusual, but they are her interpretation of things found in nature or even at home. Madeline is a mother to 5 adult children, 4 daughters, one son and a grandmother of 2 grandsons, to whom she looks to for inspiration or models many days.

Many good thoughts and prayers go into her pottery, from the time that the “mother” clay is gathered, right through the final step of firing. The pottery Madeline creates carries much of her within them, making for an even more unique piece.

Madeline has competed in Santa Fe Indian Market for 33 years, successfully placing 1st, 2nd, and 3rd the majority of the years. In 2018 she was awarded the Sara Fina Tafoya Memorial Award for best in traditional pottery. In addition to the Santa Fe Indian Market, Madeline has participated in the Heard Guild Museum show along with other shows across the United States.

“I love my job as a potter and working with my mother clay has been a blessing in my life. Each time I work I think, how lucky am I to be able to play as a way of making a living.”

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