Lens-Artists Challenge #310 – Zigzag
Acoma Pueblo (New Mexico), also known as Sky City, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the U.S. dating back to 1150 A.D. On top of a sandstone mesa 367 feet (112 meters) high, some 14 families live in houses without electricity, sewage, or running water. From there one can see Enchanted Mesa (see below), which legend says used to be the ancestral settlement for Acoma.
Their unique language, customs, and spiritual beliefs have been maintained throughout the ages despite influences from the modern world. Their sustainable way of living is a testament to their strength. They are celebrated for their exquisite pottery.
When Patti set this week’s challenge, Zigzag, I had difficulty narrowing down what I would focus on. I had so many ideas, but I wanted to focus on one theme. Please look at her post for examples and beautiful images. You will be amazed. That post inspired me to publish this response.
Besides architectural and nature examples, I gravitated toward the ancestral Puebloan culture. Even within that topic, I narrowed it down to the Acoma Pueblo pottery, which is rich in symbolism and deeply connected to their culture, spirituality, and environment. Although the meaning of these designs can be personal, one can easily see patterns in their lines, geometric patterns, and other natural elements. Their art often carries symbolic meanings, whether with circles, lines, or spirals. For example, they may represent life cycles, harmony, or balance. I hope you can see examples of zigzags in the photos I selected to present here.
With textiles, the geometric patterns can be subtle, such as in the dresses on the left. Zigzag patterns are mainly displayed in the embroideries and belts.
However, with the blanket you see here, the use of zigzag forms and lines is very prominent.
Let us now look at pottery art. The presence of geometric patterns, especially zigzag lines, cannot be missed. Do you have a favorite? I find it hard to pick only one. Click on each image to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of the Acoma Pueblo’s art.
I hope you enjoyed last week’s challenge that PR brought to us with balconies. Your photos had so much detail, and beauty was everywhere, from dilapidated buildings to modern architecture.
For this week’s challenge, turn to Patti’s blog for guidance, inspiration, and excellent photos to motivate you with your zigzag responses. Don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag when responding to it so we can easily find it in the Reader.
Ann-Christine returns with a new challenge on Saturday at noon EDT in the USA. Stay tuned. Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history.
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Vicki
I was fascinated by the intricate designs on their pottery. It looks amazing, fresh and clearly defined by so many patterns. One wonders why the patterns have stood the test of time.
Thanks for sharing, Egidio
Egidio Leitao
Thank you very much, Vicki. I think we must commend their culture for passing this art from generation to generation.
Anne Sandler
Beautiful pottery, textiles and post Egidio. Your passion came through.
Egidio Leitao
Many thanks, Anne. I’m fascinated by anything that has to do with ancestral Puebloan cultures.
I. J. Khanewala
Lovely photos. I loved your discovery of zigzags in nature.
I’m having a little trouble getting your site to load. It seems to be a bit slow, and my browser keeps timing out
Egidio Leitao
I’m sorry you experienced problems with the site. Thanks for letting me know. I checked the logs and did not see anything. It could have been just a temporary glitch. Thank you for the feedback on the post.
Leanne Cole
That was a really interesting approach Egidio, I like it.
Egidio Leitao
Thank you very much, Leanne. I loved the challenge and had several avenues to pursue. I ended up settling on the photo I shared to keep the post tied to one location.
pattimoed
Fascinating post, Egidio. I really love how you explored this theme with architecture, pottery, and textiles. Fabulous! You really nailed this theme!
Egidio Leitao
Thank you, Patti. I wanted to keep the post focused on one location. I loved this challenge.
photobyjohnbo
Your capture of pottery reminded me that I probably have some examples there as well. We visited Acoma at a time when I wasn’t taking photos, so all I have are my memories, which you helped me bring back.
Egidio Leitao
I’m glad you relived some of those moments.
Toonsarah
I love the restrained beauty of the Acoma pottery! I was captivated by our visit there and treasure the tiny plate I bought from one of the women in the pueblo. I’d have liked to get more but larger pieces were expensive and I was concerned about getting them home in one piece. How wonderful then to see these display!
Egidio Leitao
Sarah, I’m happy the photos brought back good memories of your visit to the Acoma Pueblo.
Writing to Freedom
Fascinating backstory on their art and culture. Thanks Egidio.
Egidio Leitao
I’m happy you enjoyed the backstory. Thanks for the feedback.
Travtrails
Fascinating pottery and your take on the topic
Egidio Leitao
Much gratitude, Tina.
Travtrails
Indra….
Egídio
I’m sorry for the error. My apologies.
Tina schell
Very interesting choice Egidio! I’d not heard of this place or it’s people so it was a wonderful read for me. I loved the pottery for it’s zigzags especially.
Egidio Leitao
It’s a very nice place to visit near Albuquerque, NM. Thanks for the comments.
restlessjo
The pottery, in particular, is very lovely, Egidio. What an amazing area.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Jo. Sorry for the late reply.
restlessjo
No worries! Beijinhos 🩵
Prior
I really like all the art you shared here!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks for the feedback. I’m happy you liked the art pieces.
margaret21
A clever idea, to chose a single focus for your post. I enjoyed thisnintroduction to Acoma Pueblo – thanks!
Egidio Leitao
Margaret, thank you. I’m glad you liked the introduction.
Leya
Loved this post, Egidio. The history of this place and its people and the beautiful zigzags. If I must have a favourite, it would be the last one, the vase(?).
Egidio Leitao
Ann-Christine, I’m happy you liked the post. The Acoma Pueblo is really a special community.
JohnRH
Great photos. Zig zag certainly found its way to Indian art.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, John. Yes, it seems to be a very common technique used by native Americans.
Sofia Alves
Wonderful art and I’m so glad you shared it with us, Egídio. A very different take on the challenge and one that I loved.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Sofia. I appreciated your feedback.
Amy
Excellent selections, Egidio! Love these beautiful potteries, so special!!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Amy. I agree with you about those potteries.