Michael’s present work began developing around 1990.

Remembering the beautiful pot shards he had picked up as a boy, and wishing to learn about his ancient roots, which he knew went back to New Mexico’s Chaco Canyon (the Anasazi Culture), he began collecting archeological catalogues of pottery forms.

Through extensive study, trial and error, and even consultation with archaeologists, he developed his pottery into remarkably close reproductions of Chacoan and Mesa Verde pottery.

Recently, his studies have expanded to the Mimbres and ancient Mexican People, where human and animal effigies are common. Michael has added his own contemporary designs to these ancient themes, to develop his own unique art form.

In some cases, Michael's pottery actually is a fairly accurate reproduction of older pieces, e.g., Hopi kachinas, but in many instances his work is just "inspired" by ancient pottery. His pot will not actually reproduce an older piece, but it will certainly have the "flavor" of Anasazi or Mimbres pottery.

A single effigy may be based on a Toltec theme, painted with Chacoan designs, and put together in contemporary form.

His pottery is fired two times. First, he kiln fires for strength and then he will refire outdoors to give his pots their "ancient" look.

Various feature articles have been written about Michael and his unique style of pottery making. These include the Gallup Independent newspaper. Native People Magazine, and the Southwest Art Magazine.

Michael has received many awards in recognition of his work. Some of the more significant awards include a first place at the 1994 New Mexico State Fair, First, Second and Third Place at the 1995 Gallup Ceremonial, and a First Place at the 1996 Gallup Ceremonial.

Michael’s pottery has been displayed at the Ancient Traditions Galleries in Minneapolis, The Wheelwright and Gentle Spirit Galleries in Santa Fe, the Maxwell Museum in Albuquerque, and is featured at the Farnsworth Gallery Taos, in Taos, New Mexico.

from: http://www.johnfarnsworth.com/kanteena.htm
and http://www.armadillotradingcompany.com/michaelKanteena.html