Don Juan Boza Gutierrez

When he was 7 Juan became fascinated with the ceramic artwork of his Godfather Gregorio Bracamonte.  At 8 years old that interest manifested itself into forming, decorating and firing clay.  At 11 years old Juan sold his first work to a visitor from Spain.

Throughout his development Juan maintained a unique approach toward his work.  The inspiration from both his Godfather Gregorio and his uncle Helio Gutierrez lead Juan toward a unique expression which blended both the traditional essence of his culture and the exciting creativity of the contemporary movement sparked by his uncle Helio.

		Development of a Maestro At 26 years of age Juan Boza Gutierrez has spent nearly 20 years of his life mastering his craft. Without a doubt it is in his blood, however, it is the inquisitive nature of one special talent who lifts a tradition to a previously unknown level. The indigenous history of Nicaragua, the Nicoya and the Maya influence which existed centuries ago is mysterious and sparsely documented. The ceramic artwork of the San Juan Pueblo is a doorway toward understanding that obscure history. By blending the indigenous forms, symbolism, pigments & techniques – this forgotten culture has been born again. The contemporary ceramic sculptures by Juan Boza Gutierrez are joining 2000 years of cultural history with the contemporary creativity of a modern master artisan.
		Unique Techniques by Juan Born in a family of artisans Juan has learned the old fashion way - in the family environment and an incredible amount of experimentation. Juan is proud that both his mother and father are accomplished artisans, his mother managing the family workshop, his father now the current Mayer of San Juan de Oriente, Nicaragua. Juan utilizes the local clay dug around his village. Slips are produced by silky clay they find in the Northern hills of Nicaragua. Pigments are local clays, minerals, oxides and other natural elements. Paint brushes are created with human hairs. Smooth stones are used to burnish painted designs into the clay body. Vessels are fired in bread style kilns fueled with firewood. Decorative techniques on top of fired surfaces are a specialty of Juan Boza G.
		Sharing Nicaraguan Culture with the World In September of 2001 I brought Juan to the US to exhibit ceramic arts by he and his family. A trip by a shy 20 year old artisan has developed into a schedule of events throughout the country. During this time Juan has earned dozens of awards, landed works in museums and galleries across the country. Most importantly Juan has connected with hundreds of collectors who relate to the expressions in clay that Juan brings to share with admiration. The experience with the international market has elevated the ceramic art work of Juan Boza Gutierrez to a level he didn't know existed. Before the work was an expression created in front of his family and peers, all artisans in their own right. Now in front of collectors of art the reaction to the work gifted Juan the understanding that there are no restrictions in creativity that a new level must be explored and accomplished in order to separate oneself in front of knowledgeable collectors. The results of this understanding have been incredible to watch over the past 6 years. It is my pleasure to assist Juan in sharing his sculptures in clay with the world. Paul H Devoti Personal e-mail for Juan Boza Gutierrez donjuanboza@yahoo.com.mx