Millicent Rogers Museum

Hispanic Arts and Crafts    

Domestic arts and crafts of Hispanic life in New Mexico reflect influences from Native American, European, Mexican, American and Asian cultures.   Today, these domestic arts are continued by artists and craftsmen whose heritage is expressed in works where simplicity an inherent part of their beauty.

Historically, the remote agrarian communities of northern New Mexico were self-sufficient.  By necessity, life and the tools to survive were crafted and adorned with the few materials abundantly available in these remote areas – soft pine, stone, leather and wool. 

Quite often Hispanic households harbored such skilled workers as woodworkers, weavers, metal smiths, farmers and leather workers.  From their labors, hand made utilitarian goods including storage chests, tables, chairs, beds and wall covers, dominated the home. In the Museum's holdings are many wares that represent the efforts of these Hispanic settlers.