Saints of the Pueblos

Saints of the Pueblos is an exploration of the connections between Hispanic and Pueblo cultures — delving into the Hispanic devotional images of saints and Pueblo pottery traditions. Each of the nineteen active pueblos is represented with a retablo created by Charlie Carrillo of its patron saint in the style of that pueblo. Four additional “lost” pueblos are also represented. Although Charlie Carrillo is known for his santos of New Mexico, he has done extensive research into the archaeology and pottery traditions of the region. Charlie’s interests in santos and pottery are the genesis of this book and the exhibit of the same name at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. This book proves that these cultures are indeed intertwined. Each image is supported by research about the history of the mission church, the patron saint, and the historic pottery of that pueblo. Historic photographs are included of the Spanish missions at each pueblo. This collection of retablos and pottery is supported with essays — by Archbishop Michael Sheehan, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Director Ron Solimon, and pueblo historian Joe Sando — which explore the love of the art and these cultures.