Nana Abreu - Ceramista de Conceptos Tainos

Honoring Heritage in Clay: The Art of Nana Abréu Ceramista

Nana Abréu’s ceramics sing with the soul of Puerto Rico. A native of the island now based in Durham, North Carolina, Nana has carved out a space where clay becomes a vessel for cultural memory, ancestral reverence, and personal expression.

From the moment you encounter her work, you’re drawn into a narrative that stretches back centuries. Her pieces are infused with the spirit of the Taíno people—the original inhabitants of Borikén, now known as Puerto Rico. Through intricate depictions of Taíno gods and petroglyphs, Nana invites viewers to connect with a legacy that is often overlooked but deeply foundational.

But her storytelling doesn’t stop there. Her ceramic creations also feature Vejigante masks, a vibrant tradition born from the Spanish-Moorish conflicts of the 16th century, now a staple of Puerto Rican festivals. These masks, with their bold colors and fierce expressions, are more than decorative—they’re symbols of resistance, celebration, and identity.

Nana’s work also pays homage to Los Reyes Magos (The Three Wise Men), a cherished Puerto Rican tradition celebrating the birth of Jesus. Through these figures, she captures the joy and reverence of a holiday that holds deep cultural significance across the island.

What makes Nana’s ceramics truly remarkable is their ability to resonate across cultures. As she shares on her website , it’s deeply gratifying to see people from different backgrounds connect with the imagery and stories embedded in her work. Each piece becomes a bridge—between past and present, between Puerto Rico and the world.

In Nana Abréu’s hands, clay is not just a medium—it’s a message. It’s history you can hold. It’s identity you can feel. And it’s art that reminds us that our roots, no matter how far we travel, are always worth celebrating.