Art Conversations at El Zaguán
ABOUT THE CONVERSATION
In this discussion, acclaimed Muskogee-Creek artist George Alexander, known as Ofuskie, sits down with Gallery Director Anne Kelly to explore the concepts behind his latest collection of acrylic paintings. Alexander, celebrated for his signature use of surrealist symbolism and hyper-detailed realism, discusses how his work serves as a means of self-discovery. From his iconic astronaut motifs to themes of time, identity, and the animal world, learn how Ofuskie uses art to transcend social constructs and promote a sustainable, interconnected future.
"El Zaguán Presents George (Ofuskie) Alexander" will be on view at the Gallery at El Zaguán from December 12, 2025, to January 10, 2026.
About the Artist:
George Alexander, also known as Ofuskie, is a Muskogee-Creek artist celebrated for his unique blend of surrealist symbolism with Indigenous values and a visionary humanitarian perspective. His artistic practice centers on self-exploration, using recurring themes of humanity, animals, and his Indigenous culture to investigate belief systems and foster dialogues about unity and progress. His work resonates globally, inviting audiences to partake in a collective journey toward greater awareness, respect, and unity among all people.
After studying at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) and the Studio Art College International in Florence, Italy, he has emerged as a leading voice in contemporary Native American art. His work has been showcased in prominent institutions, including the National Gallery of Art.
Contact: Anne Kelly at anne@historicsantafe.org or call 505.983.2567 for more information.
ABOUT THE CONVERSATION
This conversation took place between mixed media artist and illustrator Rebecca Lee Kunz and Gallery Manager Anne Kelly in honor of Kunz's exhibition, "Green :: Home." The exhibition was on view at the Gallery at El Zaguán from September 5 to September 27, 2025. In this conversation, Kunz and Kelly discuss Kunz's process, inspirations, illustrating picture books, and more.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Rebecca Lee Kunz is the artist and owner of Tree of Life Studio in Santa Fe, New Mexico, working at the intersection of environmental justice and cultural awareness. Rebecca is a painter, printmaker, and illustrator, and the 2025 Randolf Caldecott medalist. A citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, Rebecca’s work draws upon tribal iconography and archetypal symbolism. She infuses mythology into her work, where she is in conversation with each tale as a living and emergent story. A visual storyteller and folklorist, she hopes to illuminate awareness about our shifting climate and to inspire solutions to the issues of today. Through her picture book illustrations, her goal is to inspire children so that they may see themselves in the visual stories she tells.
Read more about the exhibition here
Contact: Anne Kelly at anne@historicsantafe.org or call 505.983.2567 for more information.
ABOUT THE CONVERSATION
This conversation took place between tinsmith Esteban Ismael Durán and Gallery Manager Anne Kelly in honor of Durán's exhibition, "Tales of Memories and Transformation." The exhibition was on view at the Gallery at El Zaguán from May 30 to June 21, 2025. This engaging discussion provides insights into the history of punch tin and explores how Durán uses this material to create unique contemporary artworks through traditional techniques, among other topics.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Esteban Ismael Durán is a self-taught artist born and raised in Albuquerque's historic Old Town. Inspired by the vibrant art scene of his youth and mentored in the discipline of tinwork by the late Ted Arellanes, Durán has developed a distinctive artistic voice. The New Mexico Museum Foundation has acquired his work, and he has contributed to public art projects in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County. A significant chapter of his career was spent in the Pacific Northwest with Michael Curry Design & Sculptural Engineering, where he contributed to creating masks and puppets for Disney's The Lion King theatrical productions on Broadway and international stages. Returning to New Mexico in 2016, Durán continues to explore mixed media, design, and the innovative use of repurposed materials. He currently resides in Albuquerque's South Valley.
Contact: Anne Kelly at anne@historicsantafe.org or call 505.983.2567 for more information.