Reyes Panana

Artist Profile

Reyes Panana was born into the Jemez Pueblo in 1961. She has been working with clay since the age of 24. Her inspiration to be an artisan came from the admiration she developed while associating with other artisans. She wanted to contribute artistically just like other relatives and friends who were artistically inclined.

Reyes learned the traditional methods of pottery making from many different sources. She found she enjoyed making clay sculptures the best. Reyes specializes in handmade koshare storytellers and koshare flute player clay sculptures. Reyes’ koshares are a unique work of art to admire, being that all is made from Mother Earth. She adds dried corn stalks for the hair to add a unique flare to her work. Reyes signs her pottery: R. Panana, Jemez. Reyes is related to Pauline Sarracino, Ralph Sarracino (aunt & uncle) and Matthew Panana (cousin).