www.nicaceramicart.com

Founder Paul H Devoti started NICA Ceramic Art after his experience with the US Peace Corps in Nicaragua from 1995-1997.  After years of intergrading into the community; living with a local family, playing on a local soccer team, learning of the pre-Columbian heritage of the pueblo, Paul started to envision an opportunity for area artisans to share their work internationally.

Upon his return to the USA, Paul settled in Raleigh, NC where he started to display and sell San Juan de Oriente ceramic art at the well known antique and flea market at the NC State Fair grounds.  Immediate success allowed him to return to Nicaragua and expand on the initial idea to support the high quality work of innovating artists.  A constant flow of work began to make its way to North Carolina and a clear distinction of an extended family initiating the contemporary movement of design was being formed.

In 1998 Paul met and established a working relationship with Helio Gutierrez.  Helio was working behind the scenes on a highly refined variety of ceramic sculpture which blended pre-Columbian roots with a bold infusion of creative, contemporary energy and concept.  A year later Helio would win the UNESCO award for a cultural artist presented by the United Nations in Argentina for his "Hombre Pez" sculpture.

As the relationship with Helio developed two distinct path were laid, one the indigenous tradition that proceeded Helio's emergence as a master artisan, and the next generation quickly learning this new, contemporary style that was taking storm.  The "Three Generations" pattern was established.  It was necessary to both get to the root of the tradition and the history of the pueblo to establish the movement’s origin.  At the same time it was imperative to embrace and support the new generation of artisans in their quest to garner artistic and economic success.

A conversation with Helio concerning his learning the craft revealed the unique and impressive description of painting with a local tree sap and dug pigments with pre-Columbian master artisan Gregorio Bracamonte.  At that moment an alarm went off!  This current reality of craftsmanship had a much deeper history than the current practicing generations.  Paul quickly requested Helio have Don Gregorio send him some samples of the lost "Nicoya" style.  Paul's first actual encounter with Don Gregorio in San Juan de Oriente was the footage filmed for the documentary "Three Generations: The Ceramic Art of Nicaragua".

As that connection to the indigenous heritage was being formed relationships with young third generation artists were developing.  A trio of young artist in their teens were learning and expanding the contemporary side of the art form.  The development of this infusion of youth led to the artist exchange program where artisan would travel to the US and share their culture and creations with an eager audience.

Since the first artist visit in 2000 to today over 30 cultural exchange trips have been choreographed by Paul Devoti.  All of the principle master artisans have made visits with the third generation artist staying for extended times.  Events over the years range from craft markets, exclusive fine art shows, gallery events, museum exhibits, university demonstrations and lectures as well as workshop collaborations with other ceramic groups and institutions.

Thousands of ceramic sculptures have been passed along to new homes, collections and shared as special gifts.  The hallmark of the success of NICA Ceramic Art has been the connections to the satisfied customer base who continue to support us as the group of artisan continue to create more elaborate and elegant work. 

Our growth through 2010 and beyond will expand on our relationships with clients, further develop our artist exchange program and broaden our connection with the community.