Mona Teller

Artist Profile

Mona Teller, “Pa-Shawn-Thupa-Wa”, was born to the Pueblo of Isleta-Tewa in 1960. She began making clay sculptures at the age of 24. Mona was inspired to carry on the family tradition of making clay figures by the famous Stella Teller (mother) and Lynette Teller (sister), who are both well known for their contribution to the art world with their elaborate clay sculptures. They taught Mona the fundamentals of working with clay.

Mona continues to specialize in storytellers, nativities, animals and small children at play which she refers to as “moz kids”. She signs her work as Mona Teller, Isleta, N.M. Mona is related to Chris Teller and Robin Teller (sisters). She also has two children Christopher Teller (son) and Nicol Teller Blythe (daughter). Nicol is presently making her own sculptures from clay. Mona strongly believes in continuing traditional ways of her people. She has hopes that her children will continue the family tradition of making art from pottery just like her ancestors.