Felipe Rivera--About the Artist

ABOUT FELIPE RIVERA

I am a Santero and Metalsmith from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I began painting retablos in 2007 and soon began carving and painting bultos in 2008. I became interested in learning metalwork to embellish my bultos with crowns, earrings, and other attributes. I taught myself basic soldering techniques and then was fortunate enough to meet Ralph Sena, who taught me the art of filigree, chasing and repousse, and greatly improved my confidence and technique. He has been a great mentor and a friend.

I enjoy carving, painting, and metalwork equally. I like the challenge of making things from scratch. Creating Santos keeps me close to my cultural roots and fulfills me spiritually.

I am a third generation craftsman. My grandfather, Rafael Vigil made beautiful furniture, a trade that he learned in the El Rito, New Mexico workshop after WWII. His son, Patricio Vigil (my uncle) is a woodworker and Santero from nearby Ojo Caliente. He encouraged and influenced me to continue the tradition.

If you are ever in Ojo Caliente enjoying the world renown mineral springs, feel free to visit the Hispanic Art Gallery and see samples of our artwork located in a rustic adobe building. It is truly a work in progress. I hope to pass on what I have learned to my son and daughter who have expressed interest in continuing the tradition.

MUSEUM COLLECTIONS:

Museum of International Folk Art- Santa Fe, New Mexico

GALLERY REPRESENTATIONS:

Museum of Spanish Colonial Art (Gift Shop)- Santa Fe, New Mexico

Hispanic Folk Art Gallery- Ojo Caliente, New Mexico

AWARDS:

2012 New Mexico State Fair

1st Place---Precious Metals

3rd Place at the 2012 Fiesta de Colores

New Mexico State Fair

Honorable Mention-Bultos-2011

Honorable Mention-Precious Metals-2011

First Place-Precious Metals-2010

Honorable Mention Bultos-2010

Honorable Mention Bultos-2008

PUBLICATIONS/PRESS:

The Traditional Spanish Market of Santa Fe-Donna Pedace

Santa Fe New Mexican Feature Picture for Winter Market-2011