Rachel Aragon

Rachel Aragon is a distinguished Native American artist from the Acoma Pueblo, born in 1938 and a proud member of the Eagle Clan. Inspired by her mother, Lupe Aragon, Rachel began learning the art of pottery at the age of ten. Lupe imparted the traditional methods of hand-coiling pottery, a skill that Rachel would go on to refine and master over her lifetime. After graduating from high school in 1958, Rachel pursued pottery professionally, dedicating herself to this ancient art form.

Rachel specializes in traditional fertility pottery, a practice deeply rooted in her cultural heritage. She meticulously gathers clay from within the Acoma Pueblo, preparing it through a process of soaking, grinding, and cleaning. The clay is then hand-mixed, hand-coiled, shaped, and sanded before being painted with natural pigments. These pigments are created by boiling natural materials to achieve the desired colors. Her pottery is fired outdoors using wood chips, a method that adds to the authenticity and uniqueness of each piece. Rachel is renowned for her lightweight pottery and intricate painted designs, often featuring complex patterns and symbolic imagery such as flowers, parrots, deer with heartlines, and spirals.

Her work is also highly regarded and collected, having won numerous awards at prestigious events like the Santa Fe Indian Market, the New Mexico State Fair, and the Gallup Indian Ceremonial. She signs her pieces as "Rachel Aragon, Acoma, N.M." and is related to several other noted artists, including her sister Mary Trujillo, her cousin Emma Chino, and her nieces Carol Loretto and Geraldine Sando.

Style and Influence of Rachel Aragon

Rachel Aragon’s pottery is a blend of traditional techniques and personal creativity. Her artistic style is characterized by the use of hand-coiled methods passed down from her mother, combined with her unique touch in painting and design. The natural pigments she uses are a hallmark of her work, providing a connection to the land and materials of the Acoma Pueblo. Rachel's pottery often features themes of fertility, reflecting her deep cultural roots and the importance of fertility symbols in her community. The lightweight nature of her pottery and the detailed, vibrant designs make her pieces stand out. She frequently incorporates elements like parrots, flowers, and deer, which are symbolic in her culture and add a layer of meaning to her art. Rachel's pieces are not just decorative but serve as a bridge connecting contemporary art with ancient traditions.

Rachel's designs are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. The use of natural pigments, prepared from materials found within the Acoma Pueblo, ensures that each piece is a true reflection of her environment and heritage. The intricate patterns and motifs she paints are inspired by traditional Acoma Pueblo symbols and stories, adding a narrative element to her work. Rachel's ability to blend traditional techniques with her unique artistic vision has made her a respected figure in the world of Native American pottery.

Spirit of Santa Fe: Shop Native American Pottery by Rachel Aragon

Shopping at Spirit of Santa Fe provides a unique opportunity to explore and purchase authentic Native American pottery, including the exquisite works of Rachel Aragon. Our shop is dedicated to offering a wide selection of Native American art, ensuring each piece is genuine and crafted with traditional methods. When you purchase Rachel Aragon's pottery from Spirit of Santa Fe, you are not just buying a piece of art but a piece of cultural heritage. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality, one-of-a-kind items that reflect the rich traditions of Native American artists. Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you in finding the perfect piece that speaks to you.

Explore our large selection of exquisite Native American jewelry by Rachel Aragon and more. Browse our collection online or call us at 1-520-577-9673 for any inquiries.