The evolution of society and new technologies have led to the disappearance of professions such as telephone operators, laundresses, and elevator operators in Spain. However, there are some professions that have survived the test of time, such as pottery. In places like Úbeda, Bailén, La Rioja, León, and Salvatierra de los Barros, the art of pottery continues to thrive. Salvatierra de los Barros, a small town with 1,573 inhabitants, has the highest number of potters per capita in the country. The tradition of pottery-making dates back to the 14th century in this municipality, where almost the entire population was involved in the craft due to the high-quality clay found in the area.
Various professionals were involved in the production and distribution process of pottery products in these workshops, including potters, clay suppliers, firewood suppliers, and female workers responsible for decorating and finishing the products. In the past, each workshop had a master and several apprentices, a practice that has disappeared in modern times according to the Association of Potters of Salvatierra de los Barros. Currently, there are only 12 pottery workshops in Salvatierra de los Barros, as many have closed down due to the retirement of master potters and the lack of younger generations willing to take up the craft.
The art of pottery-making in Salvatierra de los Barros faces the risk of extinction due to the aging population of potters and the long learning process required to master the craft. Factors such as the popularity of plastic products and the replacement of traditional pottery items like the botijo with plastic bottles have also contributed to the decline of the pottery industry. However, there is a growing demand for quality artisanal products, driven by increased awareness of environmental issues and a preference for sustainable materials like clay.
To preserve the tradition of pottery-making, the potters of Salvatierra de los Barros emphasize the need for support from public institutions in the form of workshops that teach the craft and make it economically viable. They also call for the promotion of tourism in the area to increase visibility and sales of their products. The unique clay found in Salvatierra de los Barros, with its red and yellow varieties, has enabled the development of a thriving pottery industry over the centuries. The potters also recognize the importance of utilizing digital platforms to expand their market reach, although time constraints due to long working hours pose a challenge.
The artisans of Salvatierra de los Barros distribute their products mainly in Spain, as well as in other European countries, Cuba, and Argentina. They acknowledge the importance of leveraging digital platforms for marketing and sales, but express the need for more time and resources to fully capitalize on this opportunity. The local museum of pottery, while informative, requires better maintenance and presentation according to the potters. The local government is aware of the challenges facing the pottery industry and is actively seeking ways to support and revitalize the profession for future generations. Despite the current difficulties, there is hope that with concerted efforts and support, the art of pottery-making in Salvatierra de los Barros can be preserved and prosper in the years to come.
