August 11th, 2020 - Diego Romero

Diego Romero Ceramics and Lithographs 2020

Was it a prophetic vision or an ironic coincidence that in October of 2019 the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture mounted the biggest show of Cochiti ceramicist Diego Romero’s work with the title “Diego Romero vs. The End of Art?” The monumental ceramic bowl that was created for the exhibition details a catastrophic vision of the museum under water with Chongo paddling through the flood in a life raft. In hindsight this apocalyptic vision conjures similar emotions to the world we are experiencing today. Here’s a hint, it is not a prophecy. It is Romero’s ability to tie the past to the present in a way that is outside time.

In his narrative paintings on ceramic, Romero a self-proclaimed “chronologist on the absurdity of human nature” brings an understanding of classical history, indigenous knowledge, and a satirical/comedic perspective to the trials of human kind whether it is depicted through Chongo (himself) or important figures in history.

For our second annual Indian Market show featuring Diego Romero, Shiprock Santa Fe is excited to present new monumental ceramic works as well as a limited run lithograph in two states. We invite you to engage with the stories of Popé, Coyote, and the modern Pueblo woman through his unique illustrative perspective.