Leland Vallo

Artist Profile

Leland Robert Vallo “Pinion Mesa” was born in 1969 into the Acoma Pueblo. He was inspired by many famous artists, such as Dorothy Torivio, to continue the long lived tradition of hand coiling pottery using ancient methods. He began making pottery in 1991.

Leland specializes in the hand coiled Tularosa swirl pattern pottery. He makes seed pots, wedding vases and bowls. He also paints animals, mimbres designs and incorporates Kiva step patterns into his designs. Leland says he is still amazed at the quality of artwork Native Americans produce today. For Leland, his inspiration to continue this tradition stems from memories of his mother, the late Marie Vallo. He signs his pottery: L. Vallo, Acoma, N.M.