Julian Martinez
American, 1879–1943
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Julián Martínez, also known as Pocano, was a San Ildefonso Pueblo potter, painter, and the patriarch of a family of Native American ceramic artists in the United States.
Martínez was born in 1879 in San Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico. His name, Pocano, means "Coming of the Spirits" in Tewa. He worked as a farmer, general laborer, and janitor, in addition to being an artist. He was elected governor of San Ildefonso.
Martínez married matriarch potter Maria Martinez, and together they had a son Popovi Da, who was also a potter. Maria is considered the preeminent creator of San Ildefonso blackware pottery; however Julian contributed to her accomplishments. Their son Popovi Da continued innovating Pueblo ceramic arts; his work has been widely exhibited and collected.
Martinez died on March 6, 1943, in San Ildefonso Pueblo.