Patrociño Barela at Chimayo

TAOS HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN as an art colony of world class artists, writers, philosophers and creatives. But there is one incredible artist whose story, whose work and whose spirit radiate a little brighter than most.

Motivated by a deep mystical longing and insight into the tragedy and joy of human life, the smooth wood carvings speak to “something more.” Through his deep relationship to the church, Patrociño Barela interpreted life through his work with insight, grace and very few words. There is a tension between and within the figures in his carving, a push/pull between the flesh and the soul, and upturned faces filled with the promise of salvation.

The simple life of Taos wood carver Patrociño Barela took an unexpected turn in 1936 when he was featured in an exhibition of work through the Federal Art Project WPA. Hailed as “The Discovery of the Year” by The New York Times magazine, Barela’s star began to rise as museums and galleries showed his work and collectors began to find him.

Because of his wide-ranging aspirational subjects, Barela has inspired generations of Santeros (artists who create sacred images), who view his works with wonder and awe, rare, now, except in museums. The understanding, appreciation and velocity of his message continue to increase through time, as the world is still catching up.

Chimayo Trading has a pair of beautiful New Mexican-style handmade wooden chairs, the panels of which were carved by Patrociño Barela. Though unsigned, they come with the history of having been given to the Salazar family as a gift from him to thank them for allowing him use of their wood shop.