Shaped By Her Hands
The most renowned Native American Indian potter of her time, Maria Povika Martinez learned pottery as a child under the guiding hands of her aunt. She grew up to discover a new firing technique that turned her pots black and shiny, and made them—and Maria—famous. It was a tremendous honor to illustrate this inspiring story of an Indigenous woman and her enduring creative legacy.
Praise for Shaped By Her Hands
⭐ “Aphelandra, who has Oneida heritage, paints with the hues of the Rio Grande’s turquoise waters, orange pottery fires, pink sandstone sunsets, and the obsidian black clay of Maria’s pots; the result is earthy and elemental, containing the spirit of the New Mexican landscape…A deserved celebration of a famous Tewa potter who elevated her craft to fine art.” —Kirkus starred review
⭐ “Soft, colorful illustrations provide a sense of warmth and pay tribute to her lasting impact on her community and the world...Through masterful storytelling and graceful illustrations, this impactful title embodies Maria Povika Martinez’s famous words: ‘The Great Spirit gave me [hands] that work...but not for myself, for all Tewa people.’” —School Library Journal starred review
“Aphelandra adds vibrant, subtly textured spreads to this profile of an arts pioneer.” —Publishers Weekly
