Ancestral Spirit Art Socks by Robert Tenorio

NATIVE NORTHWEST ART BY INDIGENOUS ARTISTS

Statement of Respect and Authenticity

We believe that Indigenous artists should be treated fairly and with respect. Authenticity of art, design, and culture is the foundation of our mission of building everyday connection to Indigenous cultures.

Native Northwest products are guided by the following five principles:

• 100% of the art featured on every Native Northwest product is designed by Indigenous artists

• All artists have provided consent and contractual permission for their art to be featured on Native Northwest products

• Artist names are acknowledged on all product packaging

• Cultural traditions are honoured by acknowledging cultural affiliation on product packaging

• Artists are paid in fees and royalties

Size Women’s Size (US) Men’s Size (US) S/M 6-10 4-8 M/L 10-13 8-12.5

 

Robert Tenorio, born in 1950 into the Santo Domingo "Kewa" Pueblo, is a renowned artist celebrated for his traditional hand-coiled pottery. He began working with clay at the age of 10, learning ancient methods from family members, including his grandmother Andrea Ortiz and great-aunt Lupe Tenorio.

Tenorio's work is inspired by old pottery from his village, and he is known for creating polychrome pots in the traditional Santo Domingo style. He uses native clays and traditional outdoor firing methods with cottonwood bark. The black pigment in his pottery often comes from the Rocky Mountain bee plant, which was traditionally a food source for his people.

He attended the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, initially studying jewellery making before being drawn to ceramics. Tenorio has received numerous awards, including first place ribbons at the Santa Fe Indian Market, and his pieces are held in prominent collections and museums. He signs his pottery "Robert Tenorio," followed by a small dipper star formation, and "Kewa."