Autumn Borts-Medlock

Autumn Borts-Medlock is an acclaimed Santa Clara Pueblo potter known for her innovative yet traditional approach to pottery, deeply rooted in her family's generational connection to clay. Born in 1967, she learned the art from her mother, Linda Cain, and grandmother, Mary Cain, starting with animal figurines and small pots as a child. She is part of a renowned lineage, being the sister of Tammy Garcia, granddaughter of Mary Cain, and great-granddaughter of Christina Naranjo. Her work is characterized by the traditional Pueblo technique of coil-building, using clay gathered from the hillsides near Santa Clara Pueblo, which she processes herself. Borts-Medlock's designs often incorporate Tewa cultural symbols such as kiva steps, bear paws, feathers, rain clouds, water serpents, and lightning bolts, polished to a mirror-like finish with smooth stones.