Jaque Fragua
Art is a Western concept that separates itself from everyday life and into a conundrum of luxury. Art may be perceived as unnecessary, beguiling, and pretentious. However, I believe Art to be an everyday activity, as vital as drinking eight glasses of water. My first language has no word for Art. Although, the traditions I have been raised in are over-flowing with Art. From the pre-historic petroglyphs/pictographs to ceremonial pottery and head-dresses, designs, lines, color, symbols, metaphors, technique, and composition can be found in the physical manifestation of visions we now call Art. I create art within nature and exposed to elements in order to spark dialogue and action.
Jaque Fragua is an acclaimed multi-media artist from New Mexico. From his cultural background, he has developed a yearning for creativity and for the intrinsic process that is Art. Experimenting with various mediums, such as aerosol, found-objects, earthworks, poetry, & music, messages of civil unrest, social justice, emotional introspection, and personal healing have heartened his unique perspective on life through art. Fragua has studied at the Institute of American Indian Arts, and in turn, has taught many community-based workshops, such as mural projects/public-art studies, and studio classes for figure drawing & painting. Fragua has worked with fine establishments such as Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, & Museum of Indian Arts & Culture to produce progressive/innovative exhibits concerning the plight of Native America.