JORDYN ATENCIO, 20
OHKAY OWINGEH, SANTA CLARA PUEBLO
About the art: I get my strength from pottery as it connects me to Mother Earth, it lets me express myself as my early ancestors once did. This cultural practice allows me to give respect and prayer to Mother Earth. I believe that we have an obligation to respect and care for Mother Earth, and our elders. It is also important to pass our knowledge on to future generations. An expressive art such as pottery grounds you to your roots and requires coordination and a good heart. It’s similar to meditation in that you are focused and engaged spiritually. Pottery keeps me balanced.