Transforming Tradition: Pottery from Mata Ortíz The Casas Grandes culture (1100-1450 A.D.) specialized in making coiled pots that were sculpted, fired, and painted in a tedious process that today artists refer to as La Lucha, or “the Struggle.” Around the time of the Spanish Conquest, the Casas Grandes culture vanished, and the tradition of making these handcrafted pots (or ollas) was lost for nearly four centuries. This exhibition presents the work of contemporary artists from the town of Mata Ortíz, who have rediscovered the artistic tradition of their ancient ancestors and mastered the art of creating some of the finest contemporary ceramic vessels in the country.  Over twenty exquisite ollas show off intricate geometric designs, decorative painting and incising, and beguiling animal forms. The exhibition also includes ceramic vessels from the 14th - and 15th -century Casas Grandes culture that inspired the modern-day revival of this complex artistic tradition. "Some of the world's finest contemporary ceramics." -American Archaeology Contents: 26 pottery vessels, jars, and effigies; electronic label text and graphics; accompanying PBS video featuring master artisan Juan Quezada at work; cases available upon request. Gallery Requirements: Approximately 1200 sq. ft. (110 sq. m.); no direct sunlight in gallery Audience: Adults and families Learn More: Fact Sheet (PDF, 1.6 mb) Article #1 (PDF, 6.3 mb) Article #2 (PDF, 4.1 mb) Article #3 (PDF, 2.2 mb) Tour schedule Related Images To view a larger image, click on a thumbnail. For more information, please contact: For more information, please contact: Amy Bornkamp Traveling Exhibitions Manager The Field Museum 001-312-665-7332 Gretchen Baker Traveling Exhibitions Manager The Field Museum 001- 312-665-7370 More Traveling Exhibitions: Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters A T. rex Named Sue Mammoths and Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age Atlantis Biomechanics Chocolate 50 Years of Powwow Transforming Tradition: Pottery from Mata Ortíz George Washington Carver A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico Traveling Exhibits Home