Born in the Bronx and raised in Northern Philadelphia, Nitza is a Caribeña ceramic artist and educator whose work combines a multitude of influences to communicate nuanced ideas of the self. It is through her artistic practice that Nitza embodies a sense of deep and meaningful ancestral connection to her place of origin: La Isla del Encanto, Puerto Rico.

Inspired by her mother’s strong community presence, Nitza creates vessels rooted in the strength and tenacity of matriarchal femininity. The works are also deeply informed by both Taino and African cultures, building upon centuries of ceramic history to create timeless motifs. These traditions infuse Nitza’s work with an elegance and symmetry that evidence the care in their creation. Each piece of ceramic holds a sacred sense of place, belonging, and cultural specificity that cannot be ignored.

In addition to her full-time studio practice, Nitza also works as a full-time art educator through The Clay Studio. Through community engagement and outreach programs, she brings her unparalleled ceramics instruction to people of all ages who would not otherwise have the opportunity to touch clay. Nitza's mantra is “Clay Heals Minds,” and her goal is to introduce this tool and philosophy to her community.

Through her socially-engaged studio and teaching practices, Nitza prioritizes the impact of reintroducing ceramic arts to black and brown communities as a means of self-expression and empowerment.

Throughout her thirty years of experience, Nitza has taught in many local institutions including Tyler School of Art, Moore College of Art and Design, The Clay Studio, The Norris Square Civic Association, Black Hound Studio, and others.