Jemez Pueblo

 

Clifford Kim Fragua is a full blooded Native American Indian from the Jemez Pueblo. He was born in 1957 and has been hand making pottery sculptures since 1970. He was inspired to learn the art of clay sculpting from his Mother, the late Grace L. Fragua.

Clifford specializes in handmade storytellers, humorous koshares (ceremonial clowns), animals figurines, nativity’s, Christmas ornaments, and corn maidens. The materials that Clifford uses consist of native clay and temper found around the Jemez Pueblo. Natural clay is also used as colors to paint each piece.

The clay and sand is prepared by drying, grinding, and sifting before it is mixed with water to produce the medium (weight of clay). The sculptures are then hand pinched, air dried, painted, and wood fired.

The major portion of each sculpture is hollow. The end product is a natural tan-buff color where it is not painted. His work is a unique blend of the traditional and contemporary styles, producing one of a kind pieces.

Clifford is related to Emily Fragua-Tsosie, Bonnie Fragua, and Carol Fragua-Gachupin (sisters).

Awards:
-1992 Gallup Ceremonial 1st place
-1992 Totah Farmington Festival 2nd & 3rd

Publications:
-Southern Pueblo Pottery 2,000 Artist Biographies
-Storytellers and Other Figurative Pottery