Every fall, as the nights become cooler and the leaves begin to turn, artisans throughout New Mexico open their studios to art lovers and collectors, in an event known as the High Road Art Tour.

In 2012, TQS visited the home and studio of Dr. Charles M. Carrillo, whose work as an archeologist led to his becoming a world-renowned santos artist. It was during this visit that we were introduced to Charlie's wife, Debbie Carrillo, who's an award-winning artist herself.  Her tradition-bound handmade pottery is highly collectible.

On a lovely back patio of their home, when the weather is nice, these two artists work side by side, carrying on the traditions of the New Mexico region they call home. Debbie Carrillo, the winner of the 2014 Master's Award For Lifetime Achievement, hand builds traditional New Mexico pottery using Micaceous clay.  The clay, which is harvested from the San De Cristo Mountains of New Mexico, offers excellent  insulating qualities, making it perfect for cooking vessels.  Pots can be placed directly on a cooking surface (electric or gas) or used in the oven. It is said that the clay imparts a wonderful earthy flavor to the foods that are cooked in it, which is probably why the pots have been a favorite in Adobe kitchens for over 800 years.

Micaceous clay is composed of more than 80% mica.  It is mica that gives the wonderful golden sparkling luster to the pottery.  It is this same mica that is found in women's eye shadow that many people find so aluring.  This ancient medium has adorned women and men, as well as served as stovetop-to-tableware.

Debbie Carrillo will be part of the Abiquiu Studio Tour in the village of Abiquiu, NM on October 10-12.