Jemez Pueblo
Damian Toya is a full blooded Native American Indian, born into the
Pueblo of the Jemez in 1971.
Damian is the son of Maxine Toya, who is currently one of the finest
Jemez potters of our time. Maxine was the inspiration behind his interest
in learning the art of working with clay.
He is also related to: Laura Gachupin (Aunt), Marie G. Romero (Grandmother),
the late Persingula M. Gachupin (Great Grandmother), and his sister
Camille Toya. Damian is a member of the Corn Clan. Damian has been making
pottery since the age of 5.
Damian specializes in handmade Melon Swirl Pots. He gathers his materials
(natural pigments) for his masterpieces from the grounds within the
Jemez Pueblo.
He cleans, mixes, hand coils, shapes, sands, fires outdoors, and polishes
his own pottery.
He was quoted as saying “All the pots that I create are my favorite,
because each one is a part of me.”
He signs is art as: Damian Toya, Jemez, followed by the corn sign to
denote his clan origin.
Publications:
-Southern Pueblo Pottery 2,000 Artist Biographies
-Storytellers and Other Figurative Pottery
-Southwestern Pottery 1999 Edition
Awards:
-New Mexico State Fair
-Santa Fe Indian Market
-Various out of State shows
-Eighth Northern Art Show