WHAT WILL YOUR 2026 STORY BE?

Storyteller dolls celebrate voices filled with wisdom, joy, and purpose.



Storyteller dolls were originally created by Cochiti artist Helen Cordero in 1964. At first, she made female figures holding children in their arms, which she called “Singing Mothers.” These dolls quickly became popular, and many other Cochiti artists began creating them as well.

Eventually, Helen made a male figure modeled after her grandfather, Santiago Quintana. This doll featured children clinging to his back and sitting in his lap, with an open mouth to show that he was telling stories.

Today, the term “storyteller” refers to any human or animal figure surrounded by smaller children or animals, and these pieces remain some of the most collectable and meaningful forms of Pueblo clay art.



Chris Fragua learned the art from his mother, Grace L. Fragua, and his grandmother, Emilia, and was further influenced by his sisters, all of whom are potters. When creating his distinctive storyteller figures, he uses traditional techniques and native Jemez clay.



Among the most renowned families continuing this tradition today are the Fragua family of Jemez Pueblo and the Teller family of Isleta Pueblo, each carrying the legacy forward in their own distinctive way.

This January marks a celebration of the Storyteller tradition—and an exciting look toward the year ahead.



We'd love to hear your 2026 story!

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info@picklebarreltradingpost.com

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