Punched Tin Frames and Poet Laureate Public Art Project

Michael Worthen

Punched Tin Artist Michael Worthen collaborated with Anna C. Martinez.

When I opened the attachment with Anna’s poem, my eye was immediately drawn to the word “watermelon” in the title, and I had no doubt that her written words would speak to the heart and soul of Albuquerque. Anna and I were immediately in sync to showcase the Sandias at the bottom of the punched tin frame, adding the rays of sun above to represent our New Mexico sky that transforms the everchanging canvas backdropping our city each sunset.  Our final nod was adding a small Zia to pay homage to our state.  Anna had the vision to place the Zia partially risen over the mountain top, as sunset approaches, and we pause.

Richard Gabriel Jr.

Punched Tin Artist Richard Gabriel Jr. collaborated with Mary Oishi.

I chose to take part in this project because I love taking the traditional art of New Mexican tin working and bring its wonderfully delicate elements into a more contemporary setting. I also consider it part of my responsibility as a tin worker to expose this historic art form to the public – that way I’m ensuring the art of New Mexican tin work continues into the future. After discussing the poem “Galaxy Albuquerque” with author Mary Oishi, she told me she wrote the poem while in her home in the heights of Albuquerque that overlooks the city lights at night. I thought the best way to represent this was through different vignettes that represented certain lines of the poem along with a representation of the Albuquerque skyline and an outline of Sandia peak. To depict night time, I chose a crescent moon and a plethora of stars, all punched and three dimensional. Together we agreed that these elements would best represent the poem and also paid homage to the traditional elements of New Mexican tin working.

Roberto Gallegos

Punched Tin Artist Roberto Gallegos collaborated with Michelle Otero.

I was interested in this project because I enjoy poetry and thought it would be challenging and fun to interpret both the words on the page and the spirit of the poem into visual images on tin. As an Albuquerque native, the idea of collaborating with a local poet was exciting. I hoped my work would support and honor the poet’s words. 

I was inspired by Michelle’s imagery of plants thriving in the International District’s rich, multi-cultural soil. The side panels represent falling rain and growing vegetation, blooming in rosettes along the top panel.  The bottom panel includes images that make up the rich “soil” in which the many cultures flourish side by side.

As I am a mixture of cultures, so is my craft. I mix old ways and patterns with new ways and innovations, incorporating the traditional, contemporary and experimental. My tinwork techniques are traditional (punching, pushing, hammering) but also include my own images and designs, using tools I have made. Traditional New Mexico style is a confluence of European, Moorish, Mexican and southwestern Indigenous art and crafts. As a part of this tradition, I rely on what has come before me, and I take pride in contributing to the ongoing evolution.

Esteban Duran

Punched Tin Artist Esteban Duran collaborated with Manuel Gonzalez.

Upon reading the prospectus for the poet laureate/punched tinwork opportunity, I immediately began my affirmation! The project excited me, knowing that I might have an opportunity to collaborate with another local artist, but a “word artist”! Upon submitting for the project, I started a visual journey in my head as to what the possibilities could be. 

Manuel Gonzalez, poet laureate, chose me as his artist based on tin samples of past work that I had done as commissions, and or private collections. I’ve been active in tin smithing since 1992, when I began studying with renowned tinsmith Ted Arellanes.  Once I received Manuel’s poem via text, the wheels started spinning! I invited Manuel to visit to get acquainted and to share a meal of red chili enchiladas, beans, rice and corn. Two brothers united in acceptance and understanding, while breaking bread. The synchronicity had been put in place!  I could relate to his stories, that we spoke of, sharing our personal journey. Two brothers! One from Anton Chico, and one from Old Town, Burque.

Josh Bond

Punched Tin Artist Josh Bond collaborated with Jessica Helen Lopez.

As an New Mexico artist born and raised in Albuquerque, I am honored by the opportunity to craft a frame using my art of traditional New Mexico Tin Work and transforming it into an altar dedicated to Albuquerque's esteemed poet laureate, Jessica Helen Lopez. This project embodies the profound impact of art in honoring words that transcend time and space. My intention was not to interpret Jessica's evocative poetry but to create a sacred space where her words can dwell, resonating with their beauty and significance. Adorned with intricate tinwork, the frame becomes a sanctuary and an alter for viewers to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in the essence of Jessica's poetic voice. This work is a testament to the enduring power of literature, community, collaboration, and the ability of language to inspire and unite.

Justin Gallegos Mayrant

Punched Tin Artist Justin Gallegos Mayrant collaborated with Hakim Bellamy.

Dreamy is the one word that came to mind when I read Hakim’s poem, and I worked to create a unique frame that captured that same essence.

The details found in the poem took me back to how I felt about New Mexico as a child. It reminded me of how special this unique place is. It reminded me of the magic found in the vast open skies, mixed cultures and unique traditions. In the details I wanted to illustrate that natural beauty with some of the more iconic symbols of New Mexico. The blending of materials represents the blended cultures and traditions.