One Amigo

The fine arts and crafts are not the only works of art at the Spanish Market.  Some of the spectators are truly spectacular, too.

My Kind of Gal!

The Spanish Market is made up of two very distinct sections: traditional art, which is the largest, and contemporary art, which is growing with each passing year.  Many artists are interested in exploring their traditions by placing them in more modern venues.  Although this kind of art work is often more closely associated with México, I saw several examples of figures representing El Dia de Los Muertos. Many years ago I saw a figurine of a bride representing that tradition, but didn't buy it.  Regretted it ever since and am still looking for another one.

Creation Retablo

The Spanish Market honours the talents of students from elementary through high school age.  If I lived here I would start collecting traditional art from the young people, who are the artists of the future. This retablo was created by Elias Pacheco, age 15! He deservedly won a ribbon for his representation of creation. I think I'll contact him before I leave to see if it's still available for sale.

Retablos come in various sizes, but here is a good definition of traditional retablos:

A retablo (or lamina) is a small oil painting on any variety of surface, typically a wood carving. Used to honor different saints of the Catholic Church, the retablo grew in popularity as the indigenous people were converted by Catholic missionaries. Retablos are designated as “portable, flat, two-dimensional, painted wood or relief panel” designs.

Aside from being found behind the altar, similar ornamental structures are built and carved over facades and doorways. When one wanted to express gratitude they could give retablos that described “the miraculous deed of a saint to whom the petitioner turned to in a time of need” (Correa 113). All of the numerous saints depicted on the retablos were thought to each remedy an array of problems faced on a daily basis. People often called upon these saints to bless them for events such as harvests or feasts.

A Feast for the Eyes and Stomach, too!

I strolled the Farmers' Market today to see the colours of flowers, artifacts and food.  These squash blossoms caught my eye.  Now I have to find a good recipe.  They're really too pretty to eat!      PS. I'm still having tons of trouble posting and commenting.  Thank you to all my loyal blogger friends who are still coming by, despite the fact that I'm not commenting on your blogs.  I'm still trying to solve these problems!! 

Added Later:  For those who are interested, for recipes, click here.

 

My fine feathered friends!

While drinking my morning coffee, I can sit on the deck and watch the antics of these delightful little birds.

Mirror, Mirror...

During the Preview show of Spanish Market wares, I was drawn to textiles, weavings, and tinwork. This elaborate tinwork mirror is a work of art.

"...From Baton Rouge, honey"

On Friday night I got a ticket from a friend to go to the Convention Center for a preview of some of the wonderful art and artifacts that had received ribbons for their work.  Before the doors opened I noticed this woman who was waiting with a companion.  After I strolled through the large hall, admiring all of the outstanding Spanish Market artwork, I stopped and introduced myself to Marilyn Ehr, who often comes to Santa Fe for both Spanish Market in July and Indian Market in August.  When I asked her where she was from, she replied, "Baton Rouge, honey...Baton Rouge."  Check the jewelry!

Navajo Artist, Bahe

Finally!! After many frustrating delays, I've found a place where I can photo blog, although it is slower than my old dial-up!  It is my hope that I can begin posting on a daily basis.  Spanish Market opens in the Plaza tomorrow and runs through Sunday, and I intend to spend time getting photos and admiring all the artisans' work.

The painting above by a Navajo artist, Bahe, is one that hangs in the hallway of my friends' home.  I'm living in a splendid little casa with delightful artwork throughout!!

John Bahe Smith is a self-taught local native painter from Shonto, Arizona located on the Navajo Nation. Mr Smith has been painting with acrylics most of his life. Hist interest in painting began when he was 9 years old.

John Bahe draws his inspiration from the geological landscape that surrounds Navajo National Monument. He integrates this scenic, geological landscape with cultural Navajo crafts to create lively, picturesque paintings. John Bahe's original acrylic paintings are on display and for sale at the Navajo National Monument. While at the Navajo National Monument during parts of the year you will be able to meet John Bahe and learn more about his art.

Theme Day-Reflections: San Francisco de Asis, Ranchos de Taos

San Francisco de Asis in Rancho de Taos is probably the most photographed church in New Mexico because of a Georgia O'Keeffe painting. This is a view of the main entrance on the east side of the building.  O'Keefe's painting is of the rear or west side. The small photo is the image painted by O'Keefe  I took these photos on a rainy afternoon in 2008.  Although I'm still in Saint Paul, Mn, I'm returning to Santa Fe on July 19 and will again be posting more photos on this site.

To see many more photos of reflections from blogger from around the world,  click here to view thumbnails for all participants