After weeks of being what I call   ‘On’    I had a day to relax and Santa fe welcomed Lisa and I with a familiarity and friendliness.  Artists and writers, as well as retirees, are  attracted to the cultural richness of the area. There’s a  beauty in the landscape and the dry climate suits my desire to be warm and well. To be honest, the artistic ambience is similar to the arts festivals we have in my home town. However, here its honed to perfection and many  artists make a living from their creativity here.

Of course its summer and summers everywhere are delightful.

Many of the artists speak with clay and mud to create stunningly simple images. I loved the art of  Rudolph Carl Gorman.  He was a Native American artist of the Navajo Nation. Referred to as “the Picasso of American Indian art” by the New York Times, his paintings are primarily of Native American women and characterized by fluid forms and vibrant colors, though he also worked in sculpture, ceramics, and stone lithography 

To the casual stroller of the streets, it’s a town of  culture, its colorful and full of interest, each turn is carefully sculptured for both the visual delight and of course lets not be coy… they love to receive the contents of your pocket. I’ve never seen so many galleries in one place in my entire travels. There are over 300 galleries in this one small enclave.

Last night we sat in the central square of the city with 100’s of other music devotees. It was warm and bright and the music of Leni Stern African Quartet was wonderful.  I’ve  added a video so you can all share in the ambience.

I’m not a dancer, but I love to be in the company of those who love to move. And move they did.

The summer of color is upon us and in just a few days I return home to winter and the warmth of my home and studio. But I will carry with me the mastery of New Mexico.