First News Winter 2002

Area Business: Viva Mexico!
Terracotta Sun
 

   They say history has a way of repeating itself, and one needs to look no further than the corner of Main & Commercial in downtown Trinidad for such an example. Following in the footsteps of his grandmother, Idros Howard, Geoff Peterson and his wife, Shannon Marshall, have opened the Mexican import store Terracotta Sun in the corner of the Columbian Hotel. "My grandmother ran a little store called "El Mercado", when my grandparents owned and operated the Columbian Hotel," says Geoff, remarking on his family's history in Trinidad. "Ed and Idros loved 'Old Mexico', so Idros ran a little shop for a few years in the corner space where we're located today."

Geoff Peterson and Shannon Marshall

   Geoff and Shannon acquired the corner space that was El Puente this past summer. After repainting, redesigning and restocking the tienda to create an authentic feel of Mexico, Terracotta Sun is loaded with an exciting display of artesanias from throughout Mexico and Latin America. "The color and creativity of the Mexican and Latin American artisans is inspiring and ever-changing," notes Shannon. "Time is valued differently in Mexico and the aesthetic of a handmade item is highly appreciated." Hand-blown glassware, tin and tile mirrors, talavera pottery and handsome handmade furniture are the core inventory, but Shannon and Geoff always have some fantastic folk art, and one-of-a-kind pieces for which Mexico is renowned. "The folk art of Mexico is as varied as in any nation in the world," says Geoff. "Many pueblos specialize in a particular art form due to a variety of factors. Sometimes a craft is created due to the availability of a special resource, such as the clay found in San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca, or a cultural influence such as the art forms of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Sometimes difficult to appreciate from the cultural heritage of Americans, the whimsical and satirical nature of the skeleton-themed art illustrates the Mexican culture's open and fateful approach to mortality. The skeleton figures (catrinas) from such places as Metepec are distinguished for their craftsmanship and character."

   Along with the imported items, Terracotta Sun carries a tasty selection of regional salsas, honey, jellies and jams, as well as infused oils and vinegars. The gourmet choices enhance the south-of-the-border style that promotes Terracotta Sun as a shop for entertaining and home decor. Also find Bear Creek Kitchens' products from Walsh, Colorado which were very popular at last summer's Farmers Market. Honey is procured from local beekeeper Arik Glesne, and salsa is made by companies in Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Of course, samples are always free!

   Although Terracotta Sun takes prides in its high quality, hand-made merchandise, low prices have been the primary ingredient to its successful start. The local economy is unlike Santa Fe or Taos, and so the couple tries to price its product in a manner that reflects the local economic structure. "Most Mexican artwork is very affordable and we pass those savings on to our customers." Shannon and Geoff have ten years experience buying and selling artesania and have traveled extensively throughout much of Mexico. "We lived in San Miguel de Allende for about a year," said Geoff, "and put 60,000 miles on our pickup! We always have a great selection of items under $20, and due to our sources and knowledge of the market, we know how to find merchandise in Mexico at fair, but low prices."