15 minute read
Shopping local keeps Taos community strong
from Taos Aglow 2020
SHOP LOCAL
JOYOUS, MEANINGFUL AND HEALTHY HOLIDAYS
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FX18, one of Taos’ favorite funky places to shop.
TAOS NEWS FILE PHOTO
By Dena Miller
IN a YEAR OF UNCERTAINTY, some things about the holiday season remain the same – frosty mornings and cozy fires; sparkling lights and glowing farolitos; steaming hot chocolate and melt-in-your-mouth biscochitos; gaily wrapped presents waiting to be gifted to family and friends. Presents purchased locally because, now, more than ever, we “heart” the many shops in Taos welcoming us with their zholiday finery.
“Take a walk this year, if even just to window-shop,” urged gallery owner Sue Westbrook, whose windows at Taos Blue, 101 Bent Street, are always dressed for the holidays with dazzling displays of welcoming cheer. “The historic district of Bent Street and the John Dunn
Shops are making this holiday season as festive as ever.”
Shop early, be safe
Polly Raye, owner of the John Dunn House Shops, 120-124 Bent Street, agreed. “The John Dunn and Bent Street shops are all stocked up for the holidays,” and will, as in previous years, be decked to the nines. Do your holiday errands early to get the most out of the season and grab the best selections. And in avoiding last-minute crowds you might even help with social distancing – your gift to the community, she said. A bit farther north, Yucca Plaza, at 16 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, will welcome shoppers with festoons of garlands, lights and bows, said Yucca Plaza owner Katie Thomas. “Holiday cheer must – and will – go on!” she said, laughing.
In this small town of ours there’s an abundance of ideas for spreading love and joy to everyone on your gift list.
Taos Blue offers many fine arts and crafts from local artists, as Westbrook noted, “Judy Corlett’s fine handknit scarves and gloves are always welcome gifts, as are jewelry and bolo ties from Larry Herrera. This year we’re excited to be featuring the exquisite ceramic totems of John Booth,” which will also be featured in the windows. “Check out our ornaments, cards, hearth brooms or maybe someone special needs a fine-crafted fisherman’s knife.”
Art from the heart
Fear not, fine art fanciers, you’ll find Pat Woodall’s Fine Art Gallery and Southwest Framers, 122 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, just across the street from Taos Blue, where Pat and Carmen Woodall carry on their more than 30 years’ passion for making and framing art of all kinds. A half-block west is newly relocated atelier and print gallery, Untitled Editions, at 115 Bent Street, featuring Taos painters Kimberly Webber and KC Tebbutt. Mosey a wee bit more west to Jones Walker of Taos, 127 Bent Street, showing the works of onlyTaos artists’ art, gifts, home accents and design. Right next door is Robert L. Parsons Fine Art, 131 Bent Street, featuring the Mission Gallery Collection and work by Nicolai Fechin and many more traditional and contemporary artists. continues page 32
‘It’s NOt how much we give, but how much lOve we put into giving.’ — MOTher Teresa
What's on every woman’s wish list this year? Reimagined loungewear that’s as appropriate for binge-watching Netflix as for a work-from-home uniform. Stop into Boxie Tees, 103 Bent Street, for a wide selection of Eberjey and NUX Actives, as well as the shop’s signature T-shirts and French terry loungers. It’s all “chill-out style.”
Necklace by Judy Corlet at Taos Blue.
PHOTOS COURTESY JEFF SPICER
Metal piece by Henry Designs at Taos Blue.
Groovy gifting
The “grooviest little gift shop” might just be fx-18 Gifts & Jewelry, 103-C Bent Street, where you’ll find “unusual and unexpected gifts and goodies” for everyone on your shopping list. And if you’ve got a winter sports enthusiast to buy for, drop in to
Mudd ’n’ Flood Mountain Shop,
103 Bent Street, where you’ll find every kind of gear they might want or need.
The Underground, 107-B Bent Street, has all the men in your life covered, from head to toe and everywhere in between. And Sam’s Shop, 109 Bent Street, puts a spin on ladies’ basics while also offering unique and creative looks. If that special someone-who-has-everything is baffling you, then visit Artemesia, 117 Bent Street, for one-ofa-kind wearable art.
And be sure to check out Shari Ubechel’s colorful landscapes at Earth and Spirit Gallery, 132 Bent Street, along with the hubble images, handpainted drums and guitars, jewelry and aromatherapy bar and natural body products.
“Scrumptious” is the best word for MoMo Taos, 133 Bent Street, carrying pottery, fine art and the beautiful stones and craftsmanship of owner-artist Mariah Stanton.
Everyone loves cashmere and chocolates, right? Find luxurious yet affordable items at the shop of the same name, 130 Bent Street; and, at Taos Cookery, 113 Bent Street, select a lovely serving piece in which to nestle those scrumptious truffles.
Newly expanded op.cit. Books, 124 Bent Street, is ready for early shoppers. In addition to journals, calendars and cards, the staff recommends books as the perfect gift, such as “This is Happiness,” by Niall Williams, for everyone; “Braiding Sweetgrass,” by Potawatomi Native Robin Wall Kimmerer, for nature lovers; and, for children, “Luna” by Dora Dillistone, illustrated by Taos Pueblo artist Jonathan Warm Day Coming.
La Tierra Mineral Gallery,
124 Bent Street, offers truly unique fossils, carvings, rare minerals and Zuni fetishes for the most out-of-the-ordinary holiday selections to grace any home decor. Plus, you’ll always find a welcome gift among their extensive collection of artisan jewelry.
Winter wear
Winter weather requires great winter boots and Steppin’ Out, 120 Bent Street, never disappoints with its trend-worthy yet timeless footwear from brands like Pikolinos, Born and Arcopedico. Ladies clothing and accessories are distinctive and top-notch, and the upstairs sale rack is always a gold mine.
If your favorite woman or man is looking to accessorize their beloved broken-in jeans, then MODA at 120-F Bent Street, and Clarke & Co. at 120-E Bent Street, are the places to go. Specializing in cozy and comfortable clothing for the mountain lifestyle, these alter-ego shops now carry Pendleton clothes, bags and yoga mats, and also have flannels, vests and sweaters by DYLAN and True Grit.
Little Place Boutique for women, 124-H Bent Street, has hats, Irish merino wool sweaters, holiday sabeku T-shirts and more. Their reversible jackets and summer and winter scarves are all 10 percent off during the holidays. continues page 34
For everyone who loves horses, real and imaginary. A true tale of a young mare, nearly forgotten and left behind, and those who saved her.
AVAILABLE: storyofluna.com , Amazon Books, “Luna, The Mare with the Sky Blue Eyes”, Millicent Rogers Museum Store, Taos, NM, OpCit Books, Taos, NM and Santos Y Mas in Arroyo Seco, NM. AUTHOR READS THE STORY AT YOUTUBE: Dora Dillistone, “Luna, The Mare with the Sky Blue Eyes Read over 100 reviews at GoodReads.com | Teachers may request a free book. Email dillistonetaos@taosnet.com
Love, hope, success, In Concert with Nature: “Metamorphosis”, Burned dirt paintings on canvas, 20” X 20” family, The Art of Dora Dillistone If you look then you will hear. If you listen, you will see. Wind, Water and Fire create works coordinated by Dora security. Dillistone. To see more work by the artist visit doradillistone.com and follow her world on Instagram at dillistoneinc. For a studio visit e-mail the artist at dillistonetaos@taosnet.com
Some things we all have in common. There’s nobody like me to protect the things we all value. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.Holiday wishes.
May the magic of the season bring you peace, love and joy. Happy Holidays to an incredible community!
Wanda Lucero
Wanda Lucero LUTCF, Agent 211 Kit Carson Road Bus: 575-737-5433
Shopping for kids? Santa’s lookout – aka Elf on the Shelf – is waiting for you at Amina’s Children’s Boutique, 124-D Bent Street, alongside toys and cuddly stuffed animals. Children’s and infant wear and warm boots and jackets abound for all the youngsters in your life.
Colorful folk art, Dia de los Muertos regalia, block prints and funky jewelry reside sideby-side at Coyote Moon, 120-C Bent Street, much of it made by owner Luís Garcia. He’s offering 15 percent off jewelry for the holidays. His neighbor, Ammann Gallery, 120-L Bent Street, is stocked with fine New Mexican crafts representing over 24 artisans – lots of gift ideas for distant family and friends who need a little Southwestern magic in their holidays.
Las Comadres Gallery,
120-G Bent Street, has tin work, watercolor and acrylic paintings, hand-sewn quilts, stained glass, pottery, jewelry, Taos-designed bags, storytellers and beeswax candles. You’ll definitely find local treasures in this women’s cooperative and also have a chance to win a gift or a discount on your purchase.
Is there someone on your list dedicated to making a difference in the world? Delight them with something from Seconds Eco Store Gift Shop, 120-D Bent Street – choose from a selection of creative new, recycled, upcycled and handmade goods, and the latest in solar camping gear from Luci.
Dwellings Revisited, 107-B Bent Street, brings antiques, art and jewelry, Mexican Dia de los Muertos items, architectural salvage, folk art and much more to the fore. More intriguing shopping is at Ampersand Old & New, 119-C Bent Street, wonderfully curated new and vintage home furnishings, housewares and unique gift items.
Before much longer, take a shopping break next door at Lambert’s of Taos, on the heaterwarmed and physically distanced patio at 123 Bent Street.
continues page 38
LAS COMADRES GALLERY
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JOHN DUNN HOUSE SHOPS AFTER OCTOBER 2019 SNOWSTORM. SHOP LOCAL
POLLY RAYE
Maybe long days at home have inspired you to make gifts this year. Visit Mooncat Fiber, 120-B Bent Street, for their local, handdyed and hand-spun yarns and fibers. Fourteen crafts, including Wayne Book’s silver jewelry and Heartwoven Designs’ garments, are also featured here. Common Thread Textiles, 124 Bent Street, has a dizzying array of fabrics for your projects, while Bead Creations, 124-C Bent Street, will even teach you how to craft your own gifts. A Stitch in Time, 120P Bent Street, can save the day with alterations, ski wear repairs and couture for a special event.
Home-baked goodies more your thing? Don’t forget Monet’s Kitchen, 124-M Bent Street, for the best in cookware and bakeware, kitchen appliances, cutlery, gadgets and a multitude of stocking stuffers. Check their specials throughout December.
Grab a bite at Bent Street Deli & Cafe, 120 Bent Street, or a latte from Cici’s, 124-F Bent Street, then walk to Yucca Plaza where its flagship store, Moxie Fair Trade & Handmade, at 216 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, is a onestop cornucopia of international selections for the entire family. For years, this expansive space has been home to unique and affordable clothing and accessories for women and men, with fun and unique items for children and infants. But there’s so much more to browse.
With items beginning at just $3, Moxie offers home interior and exterior decorations, like hammocks, baskets, wall art, bells and lamps, to name a few. Many are locally made, and imports support safe work conditions, environmental stewardship and creation of opportunities in marginalized global regions. Buy well – do good.
The merchants of Taos have worked hard to create safe and merry shopping environments for all. Join them and your neighbors in making this a joyous, meaningful and healthy yuletide season. And wear a mask.
VARIOUS OFFERINGS AT MOXIE FAIR TRADE AND HANDMADE.
TAOS TODAY
HOLIDAY VIRTUAL EXHIBIT OF TAOS ARTISTS AT WESTERN GALLERY
By Dena Miller
THIS has been the year of Zoom meetings, which has worked well as a substitute for an office setting, but for those whose livelihood relies upon an abundance of tourist and foot traffic, this has been a particularly challenging time.
The Taos Arts Council, ever mindful of supporting the many artists in Taos County, took matters in their own hands to sponsor the holiday show “Taos Today.”
Hosted by Western Gallery, an online gallery based in Dallas, Texas, “Taos Today” is a virtual
COURTESY PHOTO
juried exhibition and sale exclusively featuring select works from Taos artists and galleries.
Western Gallery owner George Irwin curated the several hundred submissions that were received in response to the call for artists and ultimately selected 104 pieces by 52 artists currently working in Taos County. Paintings, sculptures, jewelry, fiber arts and more are available for your consideration through Jan. 5, 2021.
“Western Gallery curates distinct perspectives of the American West, from abstract to photorealistic and classic to contemporary,” said Irwin,
making this venue a perfect match for the Taos artists he has chosen for the show.
“To be able to bring the wonderful and varied artworks of Taos – one of the most famous art colonies in America – to the rest of the world is a dream opportunity,” Irwin continued. “The modernist works of the Taos Society of Artists were a big part of my inspiration to start the gallery, and it’s fun to connect the dots between that group, the influence of Pueblo artisans, the wider contemporary art world and the work being made in Taos today.”
Irwin’s curation is both sophisticated and discerning, so your visit to this virtual exhibition is guaranteed to be a cornucopia of visual delight. continues page 41
ABOVE: ‘Pietersite Bolo Tie,’ Damascus stainless steel, peitersite, 18k gold, diamond 17x 3.5 x .5 inches, by Peter Gilroy. FROM LEFT: ‘Afternoon Crown of Color, oil on panel. 12" x 12,” by Peggy Trigg. ‘Jam in Brooklyn,’ acrylic on canvas, 36 x 30 inches, by Ruchell Alexander. COURTESY PHOTOS
During the 1970s artist Ruchell Alexander lived with his family in the Magic Tortoise commune of La Lama, Taos, where he met and was influenced by the late Taos artist Bill Gersh. According to Alexander’s biography, the study of Gersh moved him from “early magic marker period” to “late magic marker period,” and ultimately attracted him to the immediacy of acrylics. His submission for this show – “Jam in Brooklyn” – is a riot of bold color and shapes with both Afro and Native American vibes.
The entry of award-winning Taos Pueblo sculptor and drum maker Sean Rising Sun Flanagan is a powder-coated steel sculpture named “Northern Deer.” Irwin was particularly taken by its stylized contemporary form and sense of boundless movement – a fluidity that defies the rigidity of its composition.
“Having always been drawn to paintings and drawing as a medium, I appreciated the painterly, expressive technique demonstrated by Claire Brandenburg,” Irwin noted. Her oil on canvas, titled “A Place of Peace,” is a tranquil landscape study from the painter/children’s book author/illustrator/jeweler.
“But, really, every entry that I selected for the exhibition is a stellar example of the work that is alive and well in the Taos art community today,” Irwin added.
The other 49 artists represented in the exhibition are Kari Bell, Katherine Bensusen, Jeff Black, Denny Borski, Steven Bundy, Christie Bundy, Rupert Chambers, Terry Davis, David Douglas, Peter Gilroy, Sarkis Gorial, Elida Hanson-Finelli, Kathryn Hayden, Stephen Jatho, Lydia Johnston, Elizabeth Jose, Jivan Lee, Brian Long, Joan Norris, Glory Penington, Robert Perez Jr., Cheryl Price, Marise Riddell, Gail Russell, Ed Sandoval, Suzanne Schleck, David Sockrider, Jane Starks, Robbie Steinbach, Josh Tafoya, J. Matthew Thomas, Terry Thompson, Peggy Trigg, Tracy Turner Sheppard, Stephen Vaughn, David Vedoe, Leolyn Wood and Jinx Wright.
Along with Max Jones, C. S. Talley, Jeff Cochran and Peggy McGivern are featured from Jones Walker of Taos. Wilder Nightingale Fine Art successfully submitted Don Brackett, Bob Cooley, PJ Garoutte, Valerie Graves, Dorothy Lampl, Bernadette Pino and gallery owner Rob Wilder Nightingale.
Sonya Davis, president of the Taos Arts Council, said, “Because of the negative impact the pandemic has had on tourism dollars coming into our community, we wanted to find a way to take our artists out into the world. We are very pleased to have found George Irwin and Western Gallery, who has provided an avenue to promote the working artists of Taos.”
Board member and project director Cindy Atkins was equally enthused. “It was challenging to figure out ways to bring ‘eyes’ to our community’s art scene during these times. George has been very successful in developing a large following of collectors for his virtual gallery so we’re confident that a whole new audience for Taos art can be achieved.”
It’s all about fortuitous timing, Irwin mused. “Instagram has been a game
COURTESY PHOTOS
ABOVE: ‘Shadow and Substance,’ black and white photograph, 13 x 18 inches, by David Douglas. LEFT: ‘Wanted,’ cotton textile, 57.5 x 15.5 inches, by Josh Tafoya.
changer,” noting that it has facilitated his discovery of new artists to feature that align with the inspiration he’s attained from his many visits to New Mexico. “This has just coincided well with the pandemic, if there’s any silver lining to be seen.” Prior to curating “Taos Today,” Irwin has also been featuring “Taos Tuesdays” on his Instagram account.
The Taos Arts Council, founded in 2012, is a nonprofit organization working to ensure that Taos County has a vibrant, vital and active arts environment. TAC’s mission is to promote awareness, understanding, appreciation and development of all the creative arts (literary, visual, tactile, musical, performing, etc.) and to play a role as the central hub in support of our arts and artists community.
To receive an invitation link to “Taos Today” events, join the Western Gallery guest list here: western.gallery/taos-today. You may also call Western Gallery at (512) 693-8787 or Cindy Atkins at (210) 288-9336 for more information.
