Feb 8, 2018 Of the Moment New Mexico Tin Work

For this week's “Of the Moment” offering, we focus on a small collection of New Mexico tin frames dating from the early Twentieth century.
These pieces represent a moment in time, and are a wonderful example of the ingenuity of folk artists with access to limited materials. Tin cans, window glass and wallpaper were some of the materials brought west along the Santa Fe Trail, and were used to create frames to house European prints distributed by the local parish priests.
These frames were made all over New Mexico, but certain styles, like the red and gold reverse painted glass of Isleta Pueblo, became associated with particular regions. We are honored to offer a selection of pieces that speak to a significant moment in New Mexico, and by association, American history.