Modern political boundaries do not always reflect the traditional boundaries. The Pueblo Nations existed on both sides of the Rio Grande River. Mata Ortiz, located in Mexico’s copper-canyon area, is one of the Mexican Pueblos. In the late 20th century, the artists of this Pueblo began to revive the dying art of pottery making. Today, they have begun to receive the recognition that they deserve for their excellent pottery.
More recently, the artists of Mata Ortiz began to revive their tradition of jewelry making. They have begun their revision with copper, an abundant and traditional metal for their region. These early works are marked by the use of copper or silver solder on the copper jewelry.
Among collectors of traditional ethnic art, Mata Ortiz is best known for its pottery.