Santos are traditional Spanish wood carvings that represent Catholic Saints. The art form originates directly from Spanish settlers, who came to Socorro and surrounding areas around the 16th century. They utilized regional materials, including soft pine, to make their icons. This tradition has been carried on to the present day.
“To some people, it’s part of their religion. For me, it’s an art.” said Rose. “I enjoy carving them. I gather the wood, I let go.”
Rose started working with Santos over 15 years ago. “It’s still exciting to me, because you can never make two that are alike. You can’t even copy from yourself.”
The following weekend on Oct. 30, starting at 1 p.m. Rose will also give a hands-on workshop in the art of Retablos. Retablos are paintings done on a flat piece of wood. Rose also uses native materials and the same type of pigments that were over 100 years ago.
“I think people want to do it because there’s a history to the pieces. It’s exciting to be able to make one.” she said.
Rose also offers private lessons. Interested students can contact the artist herself at interested at 575-854-2705
“This is folk art.” Rose said. “You don’t have to be an artist, you can just carve away. It doesn’t have to be perfect.”
To register for either workshop, please call Socorro County Arts at 575-838-2724
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