Francis Suina (1902-1992)

Frances Naranjo Suina, Cochiti and San Ildefonso Pueblos, active 1930-1980s: traditional polychrome jars, bowls, Storyteller figurines, Nativities (Nacimientos), angels, pigs, and miniatures. Frances Suina is the daughter of Jaun Roybal; first husband was Mr. Naranjo, second husband was Mr. Suina; mother of Louis Naranjo, Sarah Suina, and four other children; mother-in-law of Virginia A. Naranjo; grandmother of Mary Edna Trujillo and Pauline Naranjo.

Frances Suina became an orphan when she was less than one-year old. Her father was Juan Roybal, a painter from San Ildefonso Pueblo. Frances was the youngest of five daughters.

Frances made pottery through the depression of the 1930s. She learned the old traditional techniques. She continued to use yucca brushes and natural clay throughout her career as a potter.

Reference: Southern Pueblo Pottery: 2,000 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf.

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