Popoxcomitls- Cuentos en Barro on view at Axis Gallery in February, features the works of father & son artists Ray & Gabriel Gonzales. These artists explore and depict ancestral, pre-Columbian stories and deities using clay as the medium and Popoxcomitls, (Nahuatl ceremonial smudge vessels used to bless and cleanse), as the canvases. Ray Gonzales will be giving a talk on his path as an artist at the Crocker Art Museum on Wednesday, February 21st at 1:30pm.
Artist Bios
California artist, Ray Gonzales is a Professor of Art at Sierra College. He is inspired by memories, observations, wishes and influences. Gonzales grew up in a small town and was part of a large Mexican-American family which provided a deep well of experiences to draw from. He states, “The colors, textures, aromas and events of all around me became a part of an unspoken vocabulary that provided a encyclopedic amount of touchstones to draw from.”
Gabriel Isaiah Gonzales is a California artist, musician and filmmaker. He is known for his larger than life approach to creating contemporary art. His eclectic, creative talents are complemented in his ability to package and present ideas on a level of Pop, yet still retain a symbolic meaning tucked into the imagery. Through his gestural, musical performances, films and gallery shows his Art often evokes a joyful, often playful and passionate response. His style is informed by a wide range of inspirations, including subjects of philosophy, indigenous culture and Pop culture.
Image of ceremonial Popoxcomitls during fire blessings. All photos by Gabriel Isaiah Gonzales