Artists Biographies

   
B. C. Nowlin  

B.C. Nowlin is a self-taught artist from New Mexico whose paintings reflect his rich cross-cultural background. Growing up near the Sandia Pueblo Reservation, Nowlin was influenced by both Hispanic culture and Native Puebloan mysticism. His unique and original style, created without the use of photos or sketches, has led to worldwide exhibitions in galleries and corporate collections. Nowlin's works have appeared in Hollywood films, popular posters, and notable locations such as the Grandberg Museum in Stockholm and the Museum of Iraq in Baghdad. His collectors include the U.S. Senate, the Presidential Palace of Costa Rica, and celebrities like Sophia Loren, Tanya Tucker, and Robert Plant. Known for his visionary art, Nowlin is also dedicated to preserving the Lakota-Sioux culture. He lives in New Mexico and continues to paint and write, often traveling to his studio on his motorcycle. 

 

Duane Maktima  

 

Duane Maktima is a master jeweler and designer known for his exquisite handcrafted works that are featured in museum gift shops, fine galleries, and shops representing top-quality Native American craftsmanship. With 37 years of experience, his award-winning creations are cherished as heirloom pieces by many distinguished collectors. A graduate of Northern Arizona University, Duane has received two distinguished alumni awards. He played a prominent role in the National Museum of the American Indian's grand opening in Washington, DC, in 2004. Duane is dedicated to maintaining integrity in his craft and advocating for the preservation of cultural arts within his Southwestern Pueblo heritage.  

 

Edward Gonzales 

 

Edward Gonzales is an accomplished artist renowned for his vibrant depictions of Hispanic culture in the Southwest. Born and raised in the Barelas neighborhood of Albuquerque, New Mexico, he draws inspiration from his heritage and surroundings. Gonzales has a Master of Fine Arts from the University of New Mexico and has taught at various educational institutions. His work is featured in numerous public and private collections, and he has received several awards for his contributions to the arts. Through his paintings, Gonzales aims to preserve and celebrate the rich traditions and stories of his community.  

 

Elizabeth Bitsuie  

 

 Elizabeth (Beth) Bitsuie is a revered Navajo master weaver with an impressive legacy in textile arts. For decades, Beth has been perfecting the intricate and time-honored techniques of Navajo rug weaving, a craft she learned from her ancestors and has since passed down to her children and grandchildren.

Beth's rugs are celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship, vibrant designs, and cultural significance. Each piece she creates is a testament to her skill, dedication, and deep connection to Navajo traditions. Her work has gained widespread recognition and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

The Bitsuie family's commitment to preserving and continuing this rich tradition ensures that the art of Navajo weaving will endure for generations to come. Through her artistry, Beth not only creates stunning textiles but also contributes to the cultural heritage and economic vitality of her community.

 

Fannie Ondelacy  

 

Fannie Weebothee Ondelacy is a celebrated Zuni matriarch renowned for her exquisite hand-fabricated jewelry. Working alongside her husband, Wayne, from the 1930s to the 1950s, Fannie mastered the art of cutting and setting natural Lone Mountain turquoise cabochons, featuring both snake eye rounds and petit point teardrops. Each piece is meticulously set in finely crafted bezels, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that defines her work. Over time, the turquoise in her pieces has developed rich hues of blue and green, adding to their beauty and allure.

One notable example of her artistry is a vintage Zuni Cluster ring, created by Fannie Ondelacy, which features 33 pieces of natural turquoise set in sterling silver. This 3-inch-long ring, though purchased by W.C. Bates and incorrectly attributed as "Fanny Ondalacy," is from the correct period and embodies the style Fannie was famous for. The ring stands as a testament to her skill and creativity, making it a cherished addition to any vintage jewelry collection and enhancing the beauty of its wearer.

Fannie Weebothee Ondelacy's legacy in the world of Zuni jewelry continues to be celebrated, and her work remains highly sought after by collectors who appreciate the timeless elegance and cultural significance of her creations.

 

Fredrique Constantin  

 

Frederique Constantin, founded in 1988 by Aletta and Peter Stas, is a Swiss watchmaker known for producing high-quality, affordable luxury watches. Based in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, the brand combines traditional watchmaking techniques with modern innovation. Frederique Constant is renowned for its in-house movements and classic designs, aiming to make luxury accessible to a broader audience. The company has gained recognition for its craftsmanship and commitment to precision, with a diverse collection that appeals to watch enthusiasts worldwide. 

 

Ignacio Escuin  

 

Ignacio Escuin is a photographer based in San Fernando, Cádiz, trained in Spain and specialized in Flamenco Photography and portraits. Escuin works for Flamenco de la Isla and offers photographic services at home or any location to capture precious memories of special moments. Escuin describes his style as “lively, authentic, and natural, focusing on expressions and small details.”  

 

Jane Bradley  

 

Jane Bradley, a third-generation native New Mexican from Santa Fe, intimately understands the struggles and rewards that accompany being an artist, running a small business, and launching a local start-up. Through her personal experiences, she has come to recognize new opportunities within New Mexico's current economic climate.

As an artist in her own right and a mentor to budding artists, Jane continues to be an avid supporter of the arts. She is dedicated to assisting small businesses in their growth and success.

 

 

Jeff Grandbois 

 

Jeff Grandbois is a professional stone sculptor and an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, coming from a long line of artists. His passion for stonework, deeply rooted in his Native American heritage, has driven him to create over 1,000 sculptures during his 38-year career. Grandbois' sculptures are renowned and can be found in collections worldwide, reflecting his dedication to his craft and cultural traditions.  

 

Jeff Tabor  

 

Jeff Tabor, born in Clovis, New Mexico in 1951, is an accomplished artist and educator. He grew up in Artesia, NM, and graduated from Abilene Christian University with a BS in education in 1973, followed by an MFA from Florida State University in 1975. Tabor taught painting, drawing, and design at Abilene Christian University for nearly ten years and spent two years as a missionary in South Africa. He has lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico since 2004, after spending 17 years in New England. Tabor works in various media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, collage, and printmaking. His bold, colorful works have earned him over 25 awards and have been exhibited extensively in the United States. Currently, he is the sole proprietor of Artist LLC and owner of Art Exchange Gallery and Jeff Tabor Fine Art in Santa Fe. Jeff and his wife Janie, married since 1973, have two grown children and four grandchildren. Tabor continues to pursue his passion for art, stating, “I am living my dream.”  

 

John Tracy II 

 

John Tracy II, an esteemed artist from Oklahoma, began his professional painting career in 1971. Known for his captivating watercolors that depict Native American subjects, John has earned a place in the art world for his ability to convey the rich cultural heritage and profound beauty of Native American life.

Over the years, John has expanded his artistic repertoire, experimenting with giclée prints and incorporating bold, enhanced colors into his more modern works. This innovative approach allows him to blend traditional themes with contemporary techniques, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and forward-thinking.

Throughout his career, John Tracy II has remained committed to honoring his subjects while continuously evolving as an artist. His work not only captures the essence of Native American culture but also pushes the boundaries of watercolor and printmaking, establishing him as a visionary in the art community.

 

Kirk Tatom 

 

Kirk Tatom, born in Manhattan, Kansas, began his formal art training at the University of Utah, earning a B.F.A. in 1972 on a full merit scholarship. He furthered his studies at the Kansas City Art Institute from 1973 to 1976. For nearly 20 years, Tatom was a leading stone carver in Santa Fe, known for his original abstract avian forms. In 1997, he transitioned to painting, becoming successful once again. His paintings often depict lush green fields, farms, and rural landscapes with animals like cows, horses, and sheep. Tatom meticulously prepares his panels, applying texture and various finishes before adding landscape elements. He typically works on multiple paintings simultaneously, finishing them as a group. His landscape paintings are further enhanced by hand-carved, gold-leafed frames created by his father and brother.

 

Mark Baraibar  

 

Attorney Mark Baraibar has been practicing law for over four years and is admitted to practice in New Mexico and Texas. He specializes in property law, civil action, and criminal law. Mark earned his Associate in Computer Design from New Mexico Community College, his Bachelor's in Occupational Education from Texas State University-San Marcos, and his Juris Doctorate from Phoenix School of Law. He is fluent in English and Spanish and is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys (New Mexico Division) and the Western District of Texas. He has also served as the President of the Lee County Bar Association. In his free time, Mark enjoys painting vibrant scenescapes.  

 

Marc Chagall  

 

Marc Chagall was born in Vitebsk, Byelorussia, in 1887. He showed early artistic talent, studying under Leon Bakst in St. Petersburg. Chagall moved to Paris in 1910, where he absorbed influences from Cubism, Surrealism, and Fauvism, developing his distinctive, dreamlike style characterized by vibrant colors and whimsical imagery. Throughout his career, Chagall's work often reflected his Jewish heritage, childhood memories, and themes from the Bible. His notable achievements include designing the ceiling of the Paris Opera House, murals for the New York Metropolitan Opera, and stained glass windows for Hadassah Hospital in Israel and the United Nations. Chagall spent most of his life in France, except for a brief period in the United States during World War II. He experimented with various media, including ceramics, mosaics, and printmaking, and received numerous awards and international recognition. Marc Chagall passed away in 1985 in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France.  

 

Mary Ann Weems 

 

Mary Ann Weems, a native of New Mexico, founded Weems Gallery and Framing in 1981. Before opening the gallery, she participated as an artist in various arts and crafts fairs and served on their boards. With a degree in Art and a desire to teach, she found teaching jobs scarce and needed a place to paint while raising her two young children. This led to the creation of her studio and gallery, where she aimed to make art affordable for everyone by inviting fellow fair artists to showcase their work.After 38 successful years, health issues forced Mary Ann to sell the gallery. Today, she proudly exhibits her art alongside other artists at Weems Gallery. Throughout her career, she received numerous accolades, including being a board member of several arts organizations and having Weems Gallery voted Best Gallery from 1985 to 2020 by various publications. She also received the Distinguished Alumni Award from William Woods University and the BRAVO Award in Art.  

 

Mike Hamblin  

 

Mike Hamblin is an American artist based in Montana and a graduate of the Art Institute of Seattle. As an illustrator and designer, he has worked with major international brands like Coca-Cola Enterprises and Boeing. His character portraits have been added to private collections across America. Mike specializes in oils, creating works that range from still lifes to portraits of people and animals. 

 

Nina Adkins 

 

Nina Adkins (1955-2023), a cherished artist and nurse, discovered her passion for watercolors in 1986. Known for her whimsical style and vibrant use of colors, Nina's art reflected her joyful spirit and love for life. She was a signature member of the New Mexico Watercolor Society and co-founded The Gallery ABQ, a testament to her commitment to the arts community. Nina's contributions as a co-chair of the Western Federation of the Watercolor Society and her role in the New Mexico Arts and Crafts Fair showcased her leadership and dedication. In 2022, she was recognized as one of Albuquerque's Local Treasures for her artistic achievements.  

 

Ofuskie 

 

George Alexander, also known as Ofuskie, is an artist from Mason, Oklahoma. Growing up in a large family with five older sisters and one older brother, George turned to drawing to cope with his parents' illnesses and the financial hardships they faced. After his parents passed away when he was 14, his sister Myra played a significant role in raising him. George pursued his passion for art at the Institute of American Indian Arts and earned a Master's of Fine Art at the Studio Art College International in Florence, Italy. Influenced by writers like Alan Watts, Greg Cajete, and Vine Deloria Jr., George's art focuses on themes of humanity, animals, and his indigenous culture, using his work as a means of self-exploration and starting conversations that transcend time and connect with future generations.  

 

Pablita Velarde  

 

Pablita Velarde (Tse Tsan), born in 1896 at Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico, was an influential artist known for her detailed paintings of Pueblo life. Raised speaking Tewa and learning traditional Pueblo values, she attended Catholic boarding school and later the Santa Fe Indian School, where she graduated in 1926. Influenced by teachers Tonita Peña and Dorothy Dunn, Velarde pursued art, becoming the first Pueblo Indian woman to be published with her 1960 book "Old Father the Storyteller." Throughout her seventy-year career, Velarde's work featured in numerous exhibitions and collections, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Museum of New Mexico. She focused on themes from a woman’s perspective, advocating for women's rights and inspiring future generations of female artists. During the Great Depression, she was hired to create artwork for Bandelier's museum, producing over 70 paintings that vividly depicted Pueblo life, traditions, and ceremonies. Velarde's work emphasized the importance of preserving Pueblo culture and identity. She once said, "I want the earth to remember me through my work." Her legacy endures, representing the strength of Pueblo cultural identity to both Indians and non-Indians.  

 

Paul Jones  

 

Paul Osbourne Jones, born in Sydney, studied art at East Sydney Technical College and the Julian Ashton Art School. He initially worked as a commercial artist before enlisting in the army in 1941. While on leave, he painted a still life of flowers that caught the attention of Professor E.G. Waterhouse, a world authority on camellias. This led to Jones illustrating Waterhouse's books on camellias, launching his career as a botanical artist. In 1971, Jones was awarded an OBE for his services to art, and his book "Flora Superba" was published the same year. He released another major work, "Flora Magnifica," in 1976. Later in his career, Jones began photographing botanical studies.  

 

Reinord Whitte Pritcheitte 

 

Reinord V. Whitt-Pritchette was a skilled artist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, celebrated for his vibrant and dynamic abstract paintings. He blends bold colors and intricate textures to create visually striking pieces that evoke strong emotions. Whitt-Pritchette's work has been featured in various exhibitions and has earned him recognition in the art community. His innovative approach and dedication to his craft make him a standout artist in the contemporary art scene.  

 

Robert M. Cook  

 

Robert Medina Cook is an accomplished artist and sculptor based in Northern New Mexico. With a background in architecture and a passion for the visual arts, Cook's work spans various mediums, including metal, stone, and wood. His art is deeply influenced by the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Southwest. Cook has received numerous awards and his pieces are featured in both public and private collections. Through his creations, he aims to evoke a sense of connection to the landscape and traditions of his homeland.  

 

Sara Blumenschein  

 

Sarah Blumenschein is an award-winning artist from Albuquerque, New Mexico, known for her realistic still life paintings. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Brigham Young University. Sarah's work often features detailed depictions of everyday objects, capturing their beauty with precision and clarity. Her paintings have been exhibited in numerous galleries and have received several accolades. Sarah is dedicated to creating art that brings a sense of beauty and tranquility to viewers.  

 

Tim Nicola 

 

In ProgressTim Nicola, born in 1954, is a sculptor from the Penobscot Indian tribe, raised on Indian Island in the Penobscot River, Maine. Growing up with a family of basket makers, Nicola had access to a workshop and started carving wood as a boy. He initially focused on painting and drawing, but after moving to Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1980 to attend the Institute of American Indian Arts, he discovered a passion for three-dimensional arts and devoted himself to sculpture.