West Mountain

Artist Profile

West Mountain was born in 1975 and is a member of the Lizard Clan. He is half Laguna Pueblo and half Cochiti Pueblo. West is extremely proud of his heritage and participates in the traditions and ceremonies of his people. He was inspired to learn the art of working with pottery from several family members and various friends. He comes from a family that reinforces the traditional ways of their ancestors. Art has always come naturally to West. When he was a young boy he drew many kachinas and fine line designs on paper. Eventually, he got the idea to put his work on pottery. This developed and improved his drawing skills and techniques. He has been crafting pottery since 1998.

West Mountain specializes in hand crafting Santa Clara pottery. He draws sgraffito designs of highly respected kachinas on his pottery. West uses his steady hand to etch his finely detailed warriors, maidens and fine line designs of a time when life seemed simple. Then, he accents his pottery with quality turquoise stones to add flare to his art. West is in the early stages of establishing himself as a fine artisan and he is very proud of his accomplishments. His favorite kachina to create is the Poli Kachina, otherwise known as the Butterfly Kachina, because of the special dances they perform and their beauty. There are over 300 recognized kachinas, each representing a spiritual being believed to guide the Native American Indian on the right path of life. West signs his pottery: West Mountain, Laguna, N.M.