CERAMICS
Irka Mateo is deeply rooted in her heritage from Kiskeya/Ayiti, now known as the Dominican Republic, where her passion for exploring the ancestral wisdom of the Arawak Taino heritage runs deep. At the same time, she honors the profound African contributions that have shaped their shared identity. Irka’s calling is to share this rich cultural legacy and play a role in the evolving Caribbean identity that fully embraces both Afro and Indigenous origins. Her ultimate purpose is to preserve and nurture these values and traditions as part of their cultural and spiritual heritage.
For over 40 years, Irka has documented Afro-Taino ceremonial music and spirituality, drawing inspiration for her original songs. She has also woven the spiritual knowledge passed down by tradition bearers in her country and other Indigenous groups into her work, leading ceremonies and traditional healing practices that honor these ancient teachings. This journey into ancestral ceramics, sparked by her work in ceremonial and healing practices, has led her to create contemporary Taino art. Now based in Los Angeles, California, Irka remains deeply dedicated to this meaningful path, continuing to pour her heart and spirit into keeping these traditions alive.