Mora, Julio

Mata Ortiz potter Julio Mora Sandoval was born in December, 1971. His wife, Alma Soto Villa, was born in July, 1974. They’ve raised 3 children together and now have 4 grandchildren. Julio and Alma have been able to do this only because Julio started learning to make pottery from his brother-in-law, Armando Rodriguez, back when he was a teenager. After so many years of practice he has mastered his technique.

Julio has shown his pottery at the annual Concurso de Mata Ortiz and at juried exhibitions in both Phoenix and Tucson, earning awards at all three.

His favorite shape to make is the miniature seed pot, although he does make a few jars and Paquimé Revival figures every year, too.

Julio told us he gets his inspiration from walking through the ruins of Paquimé. He’s found so many pot shards there with so many Mimbres-style designs on them. He said the multitude of shapes and patterns represented is phenomenal.

One thing both Julio and Alma emphasized when we were talking: Visitors are always welcome in Mata Ortiz. Both Julio and Alma would love to demonstrate to you how they make their own pottery and show you around town.