Mary G. Cain, a woman from Santa Clara Pueblo who came from a long line of traditional potters, died on Thursday. She was 95.

Cain learned how to make pottery from her mother, grandmother and great grandparents. She passed on the tradition to her children and grandchildren.

"It was a very close-knit family," granddaugther Tammy Garcia told The Albuquerque Journal. "I did learn pottery from my mother. But my grandmother's example was significant because pottery making is such a family affair."

In 2008, Cain received a lifetime achievement award from the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts. "Mary’s smile and quiet manner will be missed by friends and family, but knowing that her life and work will be forever part of present and future generations assures that her legacy is not forgotten," SWAIA executive director Bruce Bernstein said on Facebook.

Get the Story:
Pueblo Potter Won Accolades (The Albuquerque Journal 4/23)