Sparking innovation
‘Chispa!’ show encourages artists to use new techniques, subject matter
The “Chispa!” show in Santa Fe has some heavy hitters.
This distinctive one-day art show and sale offer an opportunity to meet the artists and purchase an array of their handmade, museumquality works in a variety of media, including jewelry, metalwork, paintings, woodcarvings, weavings, straw appliqué, sculpture and pottery.
The annual event will feature the likes of Arlene Cisneros Sena, Floyd Lucero, Jean Anaya Moya, Jody Naranjo, Lawrence Baca, Maria Samora, Marie Romero Cash, Ralph Sena, Robert Tenorio, Raplh Sena, Rita Padilla Haufmann, Sergio Moyano, Gustavo Victor Goler, Upton Ethelbah Jr., Diana Moya Lujan and Nicolás Otero.
In addition to artists selling their work, there will be four authors — Don Usner, Kathryn A. Flynn, Mark Bahti and Tey Marianna Nunn — doing book signings as well.
Los Lunas-based artist Otero, 37, is the youngest artist participating and is excited about the event.
“It’s developed to this thing where they wanted to focus on quality traditional work,” Otero says. “There is also some contemporary work, and this year there are some Native American artists participating. It’s sending a good message.”
While some of the artists’ work is rooted in traditional Native American or Hispanic art forms, one of the most appealing aspects of the show is its primary goal of promoting individual artistic expression. There are no guidelines, themes or aesthetic limitations. Artists are encouraged to bring works that incorporate new techniques and subject matter.
Otero will have bultos, retablos and some gesso relief pieces — about 15 pieces in total.
“I’ll have three carvings as well,” Otero says. “Being in this show has inspired me to try new things. The gesso relief pieces are coming out great, and I can’t wait to show them off.”
Collectors can expect to see works that they may have never seen before, ranging from traditional to contemporary.
“Chispa!” is a fresh new retail holiday show that incorporates multimedia art forms and many cultures and encourages us, as artists and friends, to showcase our work inspired by New Mexico,” Santa Fe jeweler Lawrence Baca says. “There aren’t any limiting guidelines, just art that is inspiring, borderless and innovative!”