Elizabeth Medina, Zia Pueblo Potter

Elizabeth Medina (b. 1956) has been creating pottery in the Zia style for most of her adult life, making her rightfully recognized as a Zia potter. Born and raised in Jemez Pueblo, she was originally known as Elizabeth Toya. However, after marrying Marcellus Medina (b. 1954) of Zia Pueblo in 1978, she moved to Zia Pueblo. With the permission of the Zia Elders, she began making pottery in the Zia style, leaving behind her Jemez pottery techniques. Her mother-in-law, Sofia Medina, played a crucial role in teaching her the traditional methods of Zia pottery.

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

TAGS: Jemez Pueblo, Sofia Medina, Zia Pueblo, Marcellius Medina, Southwest Indian Pottery