My name is Dee Johnson Setalla.� I am a member of the Hopi Tribe. � I was born and raised in Snowbird Canyon, Arizona.� Since I am part of the Bear Clan (Mother - Bear Clan) I sign my pottery with a Bear Claw.

I first started making pottery around the age of 6 years old.� Most of my teachings came from great potters such as my mother Pauline Setalla, and my Aunt Eunice "Fawn" Navasie, who was a well known Hopi potter.

At first, it was difficult to complete a piece of pottery.� However, through many years of practice and patience, I must admit, I have progressed a great deal. � I enjoy doing traditional designs such as birds, moths or butterflies, bear claws, clouds and rain (Father - Water Clan) designs.

I now do pottery full-time.� I would like to thank my teachers for their time and patience.� My pottery is known for its thin walls and high polish.

POTTERY MAKING

The gray clay that I mold my pottery with is dug up near my house on the Hopi reservation.� Once the clay is prepared it is hand coiled.� Coiling is the ancient way that Hopi's still make pottery.� Paint for the pottery comes from local plants which are picked by the handfuls in the spring then boiled in a large tub of water until they condense into a black substance.� Pottery is painted with a paint brush which comes from a yucca stem.� The ends are chewed and trimmed to various sizes. � The designs are painted freehand.� The pottery is eventually transferred outdoors to be fired with sheep dung.

PHILOSOPHIES / INSPIRATIONS

My art is the contribution of a thousand years of Hopi art and cultural expression.� When working with the clay, it's like you're bringing it to life. � You must treat it with respect.� You treat it like you are raising a child, and guide it through the growing stages.� It's not just steps out of tradition, but a personal nurturing as well.� You must be very grateful for the clay and pottery. � I pray each morning with cornmeal.� When we dig clay, we leave food there. � You can't be greedy and not leave anything.

ARTISTIC GOALS

Pottery in the younger Hopi generations is slowly fading out.� I would like to devote my time to teaching this generation the art of pottery, and what it means to me.� Being a mentor would play an important role for me.

AWARDS

August 1997 - Santa Fe Indian Market:� 1st Place -Traditional Hopi Pottery Jar

February 1998 - Scottsdale Community College Rez Art Show:� Merit Award - Seed Pot