Andrew Padilla was born to Gladys Paquin and Andy Padilla in 1956. He said he learned the basics of the traditional art of pottery making from his paternal grandmother, Reycita Padilla of Santa Clara Pueblo. He made pottery for more than 45 years.

Over the years Andrew showed his work at the Santa Fe Indian Market and at the Heard Museum Market in Phoenix. Among the ribbons he took home was a Second Place ribbon from Santa Fe and a Best of Division ribbon from the Heard.

Andrew told us his favorite shapes to make were melons, especially when he could add a lid shaped like the profile of the Laguna Mission church. He also enjoyed fashioning all-white wedding vases. He said he got his inspiration from taking hikes in Nature. He was also an avid fisherman and a dedicated Denver Broncos fan.

Andrew passed on in August 2021.