The pottery of the Mexican village of Mata Ortiz, Chihuahua, often draws heavy tourist traffic from visitors eager to witness artists creating some of the world's finest pottery.
But with increased concerns over drug-related violence in Mexico, as well as a struggling global economy, fewer people have been making the trip to view and purchase the handcrafted artwork.
Sensing there is still a strong local interest in the pottery, Mata Ortiz enthusiast David Moser thought organizing a sale in Tucson would be a great way to support the village and give Tucsonans an opportunity to shop for the world-renowned pottery without having to make the six-hour drive to Mata Ortiz.
The work of about 40 Mata Ortiz artists was on display Saturday at the Tanque Verde Community Center, 11150 E. Tanque Verde Road.
The event also featured demonstrations by Mata Ortiz artists Guadalupe Ledezma and Edgar Florez.
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All proceeds from the event went directly to the Mata Ortiz artists, Moser said.
"It all goes to the artists - this is about supporting them," Moser said.
Contact James Gregg at jgregg@azstarnet.com or 573-4155.
