Belen Tapia, Santa Clara Pueblo Potter

Santa Clara Pueblo artist Belen Tapia (1914-1999) had a long and productive career as a potter, achieving widespread acclaim for her innovative and traditional works. She is particularly celebrated for her pioneering use of multiple color pigments in her pottery designs, which brought a vibrant and unique aesthetic to her pieces. In addition to her colorful creations, Tapia also produced traditional carved pottery, a style that remains highly esteemed among collectors.

Belen Tapia was the niece of the renowned potter Sara Fina Tafoya and the first cousin of Margaret Tafoya, both of whom are significant figures in the world of Native American pottery. Tapia's legacy continues to influence and inspire contemporary potters from the Santa Clara Pueblo.

Reference: Pueblo Indian Pottery: 750 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

TAGS: Santa Clara Pueblo, Sara Fina Tafoya, Margaret Tafoya