Preston Duwyenie

Hopi potter Preston Duwyenie is the son of katsina carver "Hubbel" Duwyenie and Edith Kuyiyesva a basket weaver. Raised in Hotevilla on Third Mesa in Arizona, he has memories of playing with clay from the local swimming holes created from the rains. After graduating from Scottsdale High, he went on to study at the Institute of American Indian Arts with Ralph Pardington and Otellie Loloma and later, Colorado State University where he received his degree in Fine Arts.

Known for his use of micaceous clay, a naturally occuring blend of mica and red clay found around the Rio Grande in New Mexico, Preston hand coils pots which are deceptively simple and elegantly balanced. Often, his bowls, seed pots and plates are adorned with finely etched silver medallions and shallow waves of clay like water lapping across the surface of his pieces. The result is almost a zen quality of balance, simplicity of line and grace.

Married to potter Debra Gutierrez Duwyenie of the Santa Clara Pueblo, he is a father and grandfather. Preston has been creating beautiful pottery since 1979. He has exhibited at the Heard Museum, Santa Fe Indian Market, Eight Northern Pueblos and is the recipient of numerous awards.