A Brief History of Santa Fe’s Landmark Gallery: Nedra Matteucci Galleries

A Brief History of Santa Fe’s Landmark Gallery:  Nedra Matteucci Galleries

Learn some of the stories and secrets behind one of Santa Fe’s most illustrious and intriguing art galleries. Meet the owners and see how they turned a gallery into a true Southwestern landmark for buying and selling fine art.

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide

2023 Holiday Gift Guide

Finding the right present for the people on your list is easier than ever this year with Nedra Matteucci Galleries’ curated gift guide. In it you’ll see selected small works and one-of-a-kind pieces to fit a range of budgets all available in our online store.

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How It's Made: Bronze Sculpture

How It's Made: Bronze Sculpture

One thing the Gallery is known for is its vast collection of bronzes, which includes works of all sizes and styles.  What these sculptures all have in common, however, is a single, frequently-asked question: “How are bronzes made?”

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12 Pieces To Fall For This Autumn

12 Pieces To Fall For This Autumn

The air is getting crisp and the leaves are changing color – sure signs that autumn is on its way. Get excited with us for all things fall with these stunning pieces available at the Gallery, which truly convey the colors and coziness of the season.

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Touching Memory: Michael Naranjo's Story

Touching Memory: Michael Naranjo's Story

After a life-changing injury that stole his sight, a young artist still dreamt of being a sculptor. What happened next is a testament to the creativity and tenacity of the human spirit. This is Michael Naranjo’s story.

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Celebrating Women of the Art World

The Gallery is home to works by artists from diverse backgrounds, from early Taos painters and Native potters to figurative sculptors and artists of the Transcendental Movement. Just to name a few. Today we’re highlighting a few of the preeminent female master artists in the Gallery and their contributions to the art world.

Mardie Rees (b. 1980) - “The Bell Cricket” (2019) #2/25, bronze/cast glass, 14 ½ x 10 x 8 ¼”

Mardie Rees is a prominent figure in the world of sculpture. At just 43, she has one of her pieces permanently on display at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, VA. Her works are quickly recognizable for their emotion and texture, and feature everything from moments in motherhood to military scenes. This fanciful piece shows two real-life sisters, Charlotte and Vivian, capturing crickets and is inspired by the short story, “The Grasshopper and the Bell Cricket” by Yasunari Kawabata.

Dorothy Brett (1883-1977) - “Forest Gathering (Untitled)”, oil on board, 14 x 11½”

Born in the UK, Dorothy Brett was schooled alongside many famed intellectuals and artists of the day. When renowned writer D.H. Lawrence invited her to move to Taos, Dorothy took him up on the offer and never looked back. Eventually she became a leading figure in Taos, known for her social life as much as her art, which largely featured ceremonies and traditions of the local Pueblo Indians. 

This 1966 piece depicts a protective circle of wagon trains illuminated from within, setting up camp for the night. In the background, one can see the mountains of Taos, an enduring symbol of her adopted home.

Henriette Wyeth (1907-1997) -“Mountain Flowers”, oil on canvas, 30 x 36”

An artist with a keen sense of her own style and eye for detail, Henriette Wyeth hailed from a famous American art family. Daughter of N.C. Wyeth, sister of Andrew Wyeth and eventually wife of New Mexican artist, Peter Hurd, Henriette was raised in the art world and would make her own mark on it with stunning portraits and florals. This piece features quintessential Henriette Wyeth elements, such as the soft background and wildflowers.

Anna Katharine Skeele (1896-1963) - “Woman In White Blouse”, oil on canvas, 28 x 22”

Known for expressive portraits focusing on peoples of the Southwest, Anna Katharine Skeele enjoyed a highly successful career. She was schooled at Olivet College, Pomona College, the California School of Fine Arts, the Académies Julian and Grand Chaumière in Paris, and finally the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Florence. Anna was as talented as she was educated, teaching art in her later career, winning awards and exhibiting in shows until her death in 1963.

Gene Kloss (1903-1996) - “Far Across the Rio Grande” (1939) Ed. 75, etching, 10 x 14”

Born in Oakland but forever known for her time in New Mexico, Gene Kloss never stepped foot in this state until her honeymoon in 1920. That marked a monumental shift in Gene’s life and career, inspiring her and her husband, poet Phillip Kloss, to eventually settle in Taos. Gene is famous for her dramatic black-and-white prints depicting the landscape and Native cultures she observed. This etching shows an impressive vista overlooking the foothills near the Rio Grande in Gene’s characteristic style.

Laura Robb (b. 1955) - “Summer Bouquet”, oil on linen, 16 x 12”

An Oklahoma native, Laura Robb was first schooled at the Art Student’s Academy in Tulsa. She later studied in New York City under Michael Aviano. Over the course of her career, Laura has perfected her trademark style of vivid florals with effortless brush strokes. Laura is a true master painter, using both soft blending and sharp strokes of color (often with a palette knife) to pull one’s focus to select flowers.

Glenna Goodacre (1939-2020) - “Butterfly Dancer” (1979) #5/20, bronze, 17 ⅞ x 5 ½ x 7 ¼”

Texas-born sculptor, Glenna Goodacre, nearly became an illustrator for medical textbooks. She shied away from 3D work after a sculpting instructor’s harsh criticism and advice that she quit the medium. But after encouragement from Gallerist Forrest Fenn in Santa Fe, Glenna tried again – creating her first model of her daughter, Jill. Fenn forged the first edition in 1969 and the rest is history. Today, Glenna is known as one of America’s most prolific modern sculptors, with achievements such as the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., the Irish Memorial in Philadelphia, and the bas-relief of the Sacagawea dollar.

Helen Hardin (Tsa-Sah-Wee-Eh) (1943-1984) - “Flute Player”, acrylic on panel, 10 x 8”

Daughter of famed Santa Clara artist, Pablita Velarde, Helen Hardin (Tsa-Sah-Wee-Eh, meaning Little Standing Spruce) grew up inspired by her Native culture and, of course, her own mother. Instead of parroting their styles, however, she developed her own, using traditional symbols in tandem with geometric patterns and modern color palettes. In this incredible piece above, Helen’s artistic voice remains clear and distinct even all these decades later.

Pablita Velarde (1918-2006) - “Flute Player”, sand painting on board, 18 x 10”

"Painting was not considered women's work in my time. A woman was supposed to be just a woman, like a housewife and a mother and chief cook. Those were things I wasn't interested in." -Pablita Velarde, 1979 

A native of New Mexico, Pablita was one of the first women to attend the Santa Fe Studio School. She was trained in Dunn “flatstyle” painting, which Pablita described as “memory paintings”—works that preserved ways of life that were disappearing. She continued to work with these motifs throughout her career. Known for making her own paints, grinding rocks and minerals to achieve the desired colors, Pablita was not only a pioneer of the art world, but an inspiration for generations of artists.

Barbara Latham (1896-1989) - “Horses In Snow (Untitled)”, oil on board, 8 ½ x 15 ½”

After graduating from the Pratt Institute in 1919, Barbara Latham worked for a publishing company creating prints for Christmas cards. In 1925, she ventured to Taos, where famed artist, Victor Higgins, introduced her to future husband, artist Howard Cook. Both enjoyed artistic experimentation, working in a variety of mediums and styles throughout their careers. Known for depicting the peoples and traditions of the Southwest in both paintings and prints, Barbara was an influential force in American art. Today, her works are historically valued and sought after by museums across the country.

These pieces and many others are available at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For any questions, please email inquiry@matteucci.com or call (505) 982-4631.

Joyful Pieces Just In Time For Spring

The first signs of springtime are upon us in Santa Fe after a long winter. The gallery’s sculpture garden is waking up, turning green, and boosting our spirits along with it. 

As the world begins to bloom, there are many pieces in the gallery that remind us of the beauty and excitement spring inevitably brings.

Doug Hyde (b. 1946) -“Spring Arrival” #7/50, bronze, 10 ½ x 5 ½ x 7 ¾”

Known primarily for his works depicting his Native cultural traditions in stone and bronze, Doug Hyde is an artist of broad talents. This bronze rabbit is a highly unique work in the artist’s oeuvre, featuring a unique patina that gives it the appearance of polished stone.

Walt Gonske (b. 1942) -“Iris Spring”, 2004, oil, 36 x 34”

Walt Gonske’s landscapes are often found in remote locations via his mobile studio, dubbed the “paint-mobile”. However, the inspiration for this colorful piece was found in his very own garden, bursting with fresh blooms. It’s no wonder this painting commands such attention with its bold brushstrokes and colors.

JK Inson (b. 1946) - “White Pelican Day”, white marble, 8 ½ x 6 x 7”

Inson is an artist who is prolific in a variety of media from stone carving to oil painting. Carved in his home studio, this solid marble piece features a lily coming into full bloom amidst a bundle of buds. The overall effect of the white marble and the smooth transitions between its elements is purely stunning.

Martin Mooney (b. 1960) -“Daffodils”, 2015, oil/panel, 24 x 20”

Born in Belfast, Ireland, Martin Mooney is an accomplished oil painter who achieves a texture to his paintings that catches the eye immediately. His floral still lifes, often featuring inventive use of a palette knife, nearly jump off the wall with bright colors and mind-boggling smoothness that draws viewers in.

Dan Ostermilller (b. 1956) -“Study For a Friend Indeed”, 1985, #13/30, bronze, 12 x 17 x 9”

President of the National Sculpture Society since 2012 and master sculptor of animals, Dan Ostermiller is a force in the art community. While he works often in monument-size bronze, the gallery is fortunate to have many of his smaller studies, including this pair of nuzzling rabbits. This set of friends is a lovely example of Ostermiller’s work and certainly reminds us that Easter is nearly upon us.

Jill Soukup (b. 1969) - “Spring Scruff”, oil on board, 34 x 16”

Since childhood, Jill Soukup has had a passion for horses and has been drawing them about as long. This foundation in drawing them led to a lifelong pursuit of art, particularly with horses and ranch life as her subject matter. This unique piece shows us a newborn foal, still scruffy and lean, but filled with life and personality. A beautiful reminder of the many miracles this season brings.

Cynthia Inson (b. 1948) -“The Stories They Could Tell”, 2023, oil on board, 14 x 11”

Accomplished plein air and still life painter, Cynthia Inson, resides alongside her husband and fellow artist, JK Inson. This vibrant piece is an example of her enduring interest in floral subjects with strong colors and composition. The crystal goblet in particular yields fascinating reflections and light, easily drawing in the viewer.

These works and many others are currently available at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For any questions about the art, please email inquiry@matteucci.com or call us at (505) 982-4631.

How Santa Fe Became An Art Mecca

The city of Santa Fe is synonymous with art and culture. In fact, it was the first city in the United States dubbed a “Creative City” by UNESCO and is the third largest art market in the country. 

But this 400-year-old city wasn’t always famous for art. It’s a reputation that’s only been building for the last century. So why Santa Fe?

Gustave Baumann - “Cordova Plaza” ed. of 200, color wood block, 7 ¾ x 7 ¾” 

For hundreds of years, Native artists resided in the Pueblos around Santa Fe developing their own art forms, and after the Gadsden Purchase made the Southwest a US territory, classically-trained artists frequented the region on short visits. Yet in the early 1900s, “Anglo” artists like Carlos Vierra, Warren Rollins, Gerald Cassidy, Sheldon Parsons and others began settling in Santa Fe more permanently.

The light and landscape, better cost of living, colorful and unfamiliar cultures, and dry climate that eased common illnesses were among the top draws. Coincidentally, this was occurring at the same time local Natives and townspeople realized the opportunity for tourism and promoting their own art, architecture and traditions.

Warren Rollins - “Native Portrait” (Untitled)          Oil on canvas, 30 x 18”

Henry C. Balink - “Sioux Chief - 1930s Pine Ridge”, oil/linen, 30 x 25”

Much of the groundwork was laid early on by an ambitious archaeologist and member of the Santa Fe City Planning Board, Edgar Lee Hewett. Not only was he instrumental in defining and promoting the “New-Old Santa Fe Style” of architecture, he also spearheaded the founding of the New Mexico Museum of Fine Art in 1917. 

Eventually a number of big names moved to Santa Fe, including Gustave Baumann, Robert Henri, John Sloan, Randall Davey, Frank Applegate, B.J.O Nordfeldt, Henry Balink, Andrew Dasburg and others.

Gustave Baumann - “Rio Pecos” #AP/100, 1920, Color wood block, 9 ½ x 11 ¼”  

B.J.O. Nordfeldt - “Untitled” (Still Life), oil on canvas, 26 x 38”                                 

By the early 1920s, dedicated social clubs and associations began to form, which led to the founding of the preeminent artist group in Santa Fe– Los Cinco Pintores. These five artists, mostly young and self-taught, sought to develop their skills and forge a reputation together.

It started with Fremont Ellis, the young optometrist and painter from El Paso, and grew to include Will Shuster, Josef Bakos, Walter Mruk and Willard Nash. They quickly found a mentor to help grow their talents: accomplished artist, Albert Herman Schmidt.

Will Shuster - “Self Portrait”, oil on board, 16 x 12”

Young artists also found assistance from the new art museum, which helped with framing, building shipping crates and photographing their works for marketing. The annual exhibitions held at the museum, juried and open to all artists, led to invaluable exposure and patronage.

Fremont Ellis - “Aspens By A Mountain Pond”, oil on canvas, 24 x 30”

Soon the art world flourished in Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico. Gallerists, curators and patrons flocked to the state to fill their museums and private collections with this desirable new school of American art.

Will Shuster - “San Miguel Church”, etching, 4 x 3”

Willard Clark - “Woman With Child, House & Tree”, wood block print (first printing), 4 ⅞ x 4 ⅞”

The promotional strategy of groups like Los Cinco Pintores was a major success. Their personal reputations grew and many of them became legendary in the area, such as Will Shuster, the eccentric and beloved founder of Zozobra. 

Though the group only stayed intact from 1921-1926, their impact on the city would last. They and the artists from the early Santa Fe art colony influenced generations of painters, sculptors and potters. Thus turning Santa Fe into not only a muse, but a mainstay of the global art market.

Fremont Ellis - “Forest Gulch In Spring”, oil on canvas, 25 x 30”

All works in this article are currently available at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe. For questions or inquiries, please email inquiry@matteucci.com or call us at (505) 982-4631.

Sources: https://www.canyonroadarts.com/founding-the-santa-fe-art-colony/

Native American Pottery: Pieces of Cultural Tradition

We talk a lot about our paintings and bronzes, but Nedra Matteucci Galleries is also home to countless pieces of Native American pottery, each with its own age-old technique and cultural tradition behind it. It’s an honor to represent these Native Southwestern artists and continue to bring their craftsmanship to new generations.

Acoma Pueblo

The Acoma Pueblo is famous for its vibrantly decorated pottery, usually seen in orange and tan with geometric motifs that represent nature. The pots typically have thin walls, fine lines and eye-catching designs.

Originally, the pottery was produced for practical purposes, such as water jugs for long hunts, seed jars for storing seeds to plant in growing season, and a variety of other uses. 

Today, they’re valued not only as the stunning art pieces they are, but as vessels of cultural memory and preservation. The following examples are just a few of the incredible Acoma pots currently available in the gallery.

Barbara Cerno & Joseph Cerno, Sr. - Acoma Polychrome Pot, 10 x 12”

Carrie Chino - Acoma Polychrome Pot, 6 x 8 ¼” 

S. Martinez - Acoma Polychrome Pot, 8 x 8 ½” 

Hopi Pueblo

The people of the Hopi/Tewa Pueblo in Northeastern Arizona and Northwestern New Mexico have been accomplished potters for hundreds of years. Over that time, they developed a distinctive style, which includes the use of at least three colors (polychrome) on a polished surface, usually in a range of tan to apricot finishes. 

Traditional methods include gathering and cleaning local clay to be coiled into the desired shapes and firing outdoors. The designs found in their work are most often depictions of animals, lightning, rain and Hopi religious symbols. 

Here are just a few on display at the gallery:

Frog Woman (Joy Navasie) - Hopi Polychrome Pot, 5 ½ x 6 ½”  

Rodina Huma - Hopi Polychrome Pot, 5 ½ x 6 ½” 

San Ildefonso Pueblo 

Black-on-black pottery is one of the most well-known art forms to come out of New Mexico. It was inspired by an archaeological dig site at the modern day Bandelier National Monument, which uncovered sherds of black-on-black pottery from the twelfth to seventeenth centuries. This discovery led to the experimentation and development of today’s black-on-black ware by Maria Martinez and her husband, Julian, in the 1910s. 

They discovered that, during the firing process, putting powdered manure to smother the fire yet retaining the heat removed the oxygen from the process, leaving a stunning black vessel with designs in matte black.

Apart from blackware, the San Ildefonso Pueblo also produces pottery of other varieties, including redware and polychrome-style pieces. 

Santana Roybal Martinez & Adam Martinez - San Ildefonso Blackware Vase, 8 ½ x 6” 

Blue Corn (Crucita Gonzales Calabaza) - San Ildefonso Polychrome Pot, 4 x 8”

Santo Domingo Pueblo

The Kewa people of the Santo Domingo Pueblo have lived in the northern New Mexico region since the 1200s, but developed their version of pottery production in the mid-1880s. Prior to this, the Pueblo was more dedicated to jewelry-making, but was led into pottery work by a number of notable artisans such as the Aguilar family, Santana Melchor in the mid-1900s and a modern revival by Robert Tenorio beginning in the 1970s.  

Their pieces are almost uniformly polychrome with cream-colored slip covered by red and black slip. Human figures and symbols are reserved strictly for ceremonial pots, so most Kewa pottery instead features simple geometric designs harkening from nature. 

A quintessential example of their work is the following piece at the gallery by Robert Tenorio, hitting every trademark of traditional Kewa artistry.

Robert Tenorio - Santo Domingo Negative Polychrome Jar #504, 8 ¾ x 11 ½”  

Santa Clara Pueblo

Another Pueblo in the region was responsible for developing new techniques in the firing of their pottery, which inspired artisans from nearby Pueblos like Maria Martinez. That was the Santa Clarans, the descendants of the ancient Puyé mesa-top dwellers who were driven closer to the Rio Grande by severe drought in the mid-1500s. 

Their history of pottery production dates back over 300 years with their primary pieces being undecorated redware and blackware. That is until Sarafina Gutierrez Tafoya and her daughter, Margaret Tafoya, developed a unique form of pottery that came to be known as deep-carved blackware. Their famed bear claw design became synonymous with the Santa Clara Pueblo and remains one of their most recognizable symbols. 

Potters of the Pueblo also developed techniques unique to the pueblo, including a technique called sgraffito (designs and textures scratched into the surface of the pot). They also turned away from strict development of small wares to make some of the largest examples of Native pottery found in the region.

Denny Gutierrez (Santa Clara) - Carved Round Redware Pot, 5 x 5”

Pablita Chavarria - Santa Clara Carved Bowl #319, 7 x 9”

While this is far from a complete list of the Southwest’s Pueblos and their styles of pottery, we hope this brief introduction to a few of the cultures and their techniques helps art and history lovers identify and further appreciate these important and beautiful works.

For more information about any of these pieces, please contact inquiry@matteucci.com.

Finding New Life In Santa Fe: Sheldon Parsons’ Story

A journey that began with tragedy and illness became a career-changing new chapter for Sheldon Orrin Parsons (1866-1943) when he moved from New York to Santa Fe with his daughter, Sara, in 1913. Spurred by his wife’s death and his own fight with tuberculosis, Parsons headed to the Southwest in search of a healthier climate and a fresh start.

Sheldon Parsons - “Taos Road”, oil on board, 28” x 24”

Born in Rochester and educated alongside other famed artists of his day at the National Academy of Design, like Will Low, Edgar Ward and William Merritt Chase, Parsons was already a successful painter in New York. He was known for his portraits of influential people like President McKinley and Susan B. Anthony as well as pastoral landscapes of the Westchester County countryside. This pilgrimage going West was a step into the unknown, but after settling in the small town, he soon became one of Santa Fe’s earliest resident artists.

Sheldon Parsons, “Landscape In NM”, oil/board, 9” x 12”

Like it does with so many people, the land connected with Parsons emotionally and creatively. When he laid eyes on the beauty of the region, his art was forever changed. In fact, once he fell in love with the landscape of New Mexico, he never painted figures again. 

Sheldon Parsons - “Chamisa Leading to House”, oil on canvas, 35” x 36”

Like many other artists of the time, he displayed his work at the Palace of the Governors and would later become the first director of the newly completed New Mexico Museum of Fine Art. His daughter, Sara, would marry artist Victor Higgins in 1919, which lasted only four years but left a lasting impression on Parsons’ own artistic style. Though he was never considered a modernist, he was drawn to more progressive painters. Parsons passed away in 1943, right around the time abstract expressionism was taking off in New York City.

Sheldon Parsons - “(Untitled) Well In Front of Adobes”, oil on board, 24” x 36”

The pieces shown here and a number of other original Sheldon Parsons paintings are available at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For questions about the art or the gallery, please contact inquiry@matteucci.com


Source: AskArt.com

Three New Paintings From American Master, David A. Leffel

BREAKING—Three pieces by David A. Leffel have landed in the gallery and we’re utterly in awe. With a reputation that precedes him, Leffel’s work is always an honor to have come through our door.

David A. Leffel is an accomplished artist and instructor with over sixty years as a working painter. Trained in the schools of the 17th-Century Dutch and Flemish masters, namely Vermeer and Rembrandt, Leffel gradually became synonymous with this era and style of painting. His chiaroscuro technique, developed whilst enrolled at the Art Students League in New York City, led to him being frequently called “a 20th-Century old master.”

These three latest paintings all have the quintessential qualities that define Leffel’s body of work. With soft light and dark shadows, defined focal points and textural detail, these are classic works by the artist.

David A. Leffel - “Mexican Ceramic with Red Lanterns”, oil on canvas, 17 x 20”

Set in front of a dark, rustic background, a ceramic gleams in a noticeable spotlight. Everyday objects like blueberries and clementines strewn about take on a new poignance in this fascinating piece.

 

David A. Leffel - “Girl In Black Turtleneck”, oil on board, 12 x 9 3/4”

This haunting portrait showcases Leffel’s long study of Rembrandt and his own portraiture. With one eye closer to the viewer and the other less in focus, this work offers amazing depth and provides an obvious focal point. It leaves you wondering just what she is thinking.

 

David A. Leffel - “The Journey”, oil on canvas, 36 1/2 x 28 1/2”

Large and commanding in its presentation, this still life is a prime example of Leffel’s mastery of light and shadow. With light filtering in through a skylight, seemingly random objects take on meaning and mystique the way they are composed from background to foreground.

 

Add a masterpiece to your collection from one of the finest painters still working today. All three and more Leffel originals are available at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, NM.

For questions or purchasing information, please email inquiry@matteucci.com

Source: https://www.askart.com/artist/David_A_Leffel/20847/David_A_Leffel.aspx

New Works For the New Year

As we gear up for 2023, we’ve brought a number of new works into the gallery that would make anyone excited for the new year. These pieces by both living and historic artists include some stunning finds, adding fresh life and beauty to any collection.

Laura Robb - “Santo Nino”, oil on linen, 18 x 18”

Ever a master of the floral still life, Robb manages to find new ways to “wow”. Her signature style seen here features heavy use of the palette knife and a combination of light and color that add energy to the piece. If you look closely, you’ll notice the Santo Nino subtly peeking through amongst the vases and valances.

 

Randall Davey - “Rue de la Paix”, oil on board, 32 x 26”

Randall Davey (1887-1964) was a renowned American artist who settled in Santa Fe and taught at the University of New Mexico. This incredible Paris scene is a prime example of his diverse body of work throughout his career, which featured extensive portraiture and landscapes in many media.

 

JK Inson - “Old School”, #7/10, bronze

Inson is a prolific artist, working both as a painter and sculptor, though he’s known for his bronzes. His strong style is seen here in this fantastically handsome rendering of a fierce crow. If Edgar Allan Poe could shop the gallery today, we think this one would surely land in his study.

 

Cynthia Inson - “Looking Up”, oil on board, 8 x 10”

It’s easy to lose yourself in this ethereal work by Cynthia Inson. Wife of fellow artist, JK Inson, she brings a unique softness to her landscapes that pull you in whether it’s a huge work or an 8 x 10” scene.

 

Kenneth Adams - “Kop-No Tall Corn Reysita Bernal” (1926), charcoal, 16 x 19”

Kenneth Adams (1897-1966) was a Kansas-born artist who later made the pilgrimage followed by many painters of his day to Taos. There, he brought a modernist touch to his works featuring the natives and natural beauty of Northern New Mexico. This piece is an unusually large example of his charcoal work with impressive detail in the face and shawl.

 

Fremont Ellis - “(Untitled) Aspens By A Mountain Pond”, oil on canvas, 24 x 30”

Famed landscape painter, Fremont Ellis (1897-1985), was known for his lively nature scenes with impressive use of light. This scene is no exception, with gorgeous sunlight dappling through the aspen trees and across the pond.

 

Glenna Goodacre - “Window”, #22/25, bronze

If you’ve been interested in sculpture long, you’re probably familiar with Glenna Goodacre (1939-2020). Best known for designing the obverse of the Sacagawea dollar and the Vietnam Women’s War Memorial, Glenna was well-rounded in multiple media. This tender window scene is an example of her fondness for depicting children in her work.

 

Walt Gonske - “A Taos Winter Day”, oil on linen board, 9 x 12”

We’re always thrilled to get more of Gonske’s work in the gallery—and compact scenes from his travels in New Mexico like this never disappoint. His quick method of painting and impressionistic brush strokes lend exceptional life to just about any landscape.

Need one of these pieces in your collection? All works are currently available at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, NM. Email inquiry@matteucci.com for additional details.

8 Stunning Winter Paintings For the Holidays

Chris Morel - “First Snow”, oil on canvas

Snow is deceptively difficult to capture. Yet Morel hits the mark by uniquely capturing the way the light reflects off the snow’s surface in this 9 x 12” piece.

 

Clark Hulings - “Woodbearers of Chimayo”, oil on canvas

This frigid New Mexico scene jumps off the canvas. Hulings’ use of dark shadows on the well-trodden snow gives it incredible depth and realism.

 

LaVerne Nelson Black - “Untitled (Native Rider With Dogs)”, oil on canvas

Using broad brush strokes and often a palette knife in his work, Black depicts winter in a style all his own. This piece uses a limited palette and matte finish to give the impression of wind-driven snow.

 

Walt Gonske - “Northern San Ysidro Winter”, oil on panel

Known for working quickly and in plein air, Gonske delivers a rustic feel to this New Mexico landscape. Though it takes up just 14” x 18”, it’s a masterful piece that commands attention.

 

Glenna Goodacre - “Image of Taos”, watercolor on paper

Known mostly for her bronzes, Goodacre excelled in many different media. This Taos watercolor featuring bundled-up Native subjects, a theme she often returned to, is a prime example of her mastery of multiple artforms.

 

Tom Lovell - “End of Denver Gold Rush”, oil on canvas

Tom Lovell was an illustrator and painter whose works often graced pulp fiction magazine covers throughout the 20th century. This 1996 piece, amazingly painted when he was 87 years old, shows his enduring skill in an expansive scene one almost feels they could walk into.

 

Carl Von Hassler, “Snow Scene”, oil on board

This chilly landscape features Von Hassler’s favorite subject: the beauty of nature—specifically in his beloved adopted home of New Mexico. Like most of his paintings, the sketch was likely done on location and later finished in his studio.

 

Leon Gaspard - “Untitled (Taos Adobes)”, oil on board

The king of winter scenes, Russian-born Leon Gaspard brings his signature technique to this work. Using thick paint, a muted palette and heavy brush strokes, Gaspard transports you to a cold, blustery day in Taos.

All paintings are currently available at Nedra Matteucci Gallery in Santa Fe, NM. For questions about the works or gallery, email inquiry@matteucci.com