Foley, Benina

Born into Jemez Pueblo in April, 1982, Benina Foley is the daughter of Laura Gachupin, granddaughter of Marie Romero and great-granddaughter of Persingula Gachupin. Gordon Foley is her brother. Her heritage is 1/2 Jemez and 1/2 Otoe-Missouria. She was educated first at the Santa Fe Indian School, then at Santa Fe Community College. She learned how to make pottery through watching and working with her mother as she grew up.

It is said that Benina made her first pots at the age of two. When she was 10 she earned the First Place ribbon for polished redware or blackware, ages 12 and under, at Santa Fe Indian Market.