In the heart of the enchanting New Mexican landscape, one family has found a unique way to bond and express their creativity through art. Meet the Vogel family - Jim, Christen, Sage, Grayson, and Makaela.
Jim, along with wife Christen and son, Sage have weaved together a captivating tapestry of collaborative art inspired by the rich folklore of New Mexico.
Based out of Dixon, a picturesque village in northern New Mexico, Vogel's artistic journey is a testament to his deep connection to the land, the culture, and the common man's struggle. With a brush in hand and a vision in his heart, Vogel brings to life the rich tapestry of this region through his evocative artwork.
Jim Vogel: The Painter
Jim Vogel is not just a painter; he's a storyteller. His works are imbued with narratives that transcend mere visuals, painting tales of a land steeped in history, culture, and tradition. Through his art, he captures the very essence of New Mexico, taking viewers on a journey through time and place.
Jim Vogel is the artistic mastermind behind the creations. His brush strokes breathe life into vivid and enchanting scenes inspired by the legends and myths of New Mexican folklore. These timeless stories, passed down through generations and influenced by a multitude of cultures, find new life on his canvases. Vogel's keen understanding of the region's unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences allows him to create paintings that resonate with the soul of New Mexico. Vogel's work portrays dominant figures – he exaggerates the hands and feet, creating larger-than-life, surreal figures. The feet perhaps symbolizing an anchor; the hands, a tribute to the sanctity of work. His ability to convey the mystique of local legends captivates viewers and draws them into the world of New Mexican folklore.
His ability to translate stories and fables into visually stunning paintings is truly remarkable. Each of his works is a labor of love, a testament to his dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of his beloved state.
Christen Vogel: The Frame Artisan
While Jim's art takes center stage, his wife, Christen Vogel, plays a vital role in their artistic endeavors. She channels her creativity into crafting hand-made frames, using salvageable materials. These frames aren't just a means of preserving and showcasing Jim's art; they are pieces of art in their own right. Each frame is a testament to Christen's commitment to sustainability and her knack for turning discarded materials into something beautiful and meaningful.
Sage Vogel: The Storyteller
Completing this artistic triad is Sage Vogel, the family's storyteller. Sage possesses a deep knowledge of New Mexican folklore and a gift for weaving tales that immerse viewers in the world Jim paints. His stories and fables serve as the foundation for many of their collaborative pieces. Moreover, Sage has gone the extra length to write poignant excerpts that accompany each painting in the newest collaborative collection, allowing viewers to delve deeper into the stories behind the art and form a personal connection with the folklore that inspires them.
New Mexican Landscapes and Rural Life:
Along with the captivating figures that are a staple in Vogel's portfolio. Jim also includes breathtaking paintings of New Mexican landscapes and rural life. His mastery of color and texture transports viewers to the heart of New Mexico, where large surrealistic clouds meet the horizon of arid plains and majestic mountains loom in the distance. Vogel's attention to detail is apparent in every brushstroke, capturing the beauty and simplicity of life in rural New Mexico.
A Family United in Creativity:
The Vogel family's collaborative approach to art is a testament to the power of familial bonds and shared passions. Through their combined efforts, they bring the stories and legends of New Mexican folklore to life in a way that resonates with people of all backgrounds. Their art invites viewers to explore the rich cultural tapestry of the region while celebrating the importance of family and creativity.
Jim Vogel's art is more than just paint on canvas; it's a testament to the soul of New Mexico. Through his storytelling approach, he invites us to connect with the land, the culture, and the common man's struggle that define this region. With each stroke of his brush, Vogel captures the spirit of New Mexico, bringing it to life in a way that resonates with viewers on a profound level.
As we admire his work, we are reminded of the power of art to transcend time and place, transporting us to the heart of New Mexico and allowing us to experience its beauty and rich heritage through the eyes of a true master.
Jim Vogel, Christen Vogel, and Sage Vogel are not just artists; they are storytellers, and craftsmen united in their mission to preserve and celebrate family, heritage, and the profound connection between the artist and the land that inspires them. Their collaborative artworks are a testament to the beauty that can emerge when passion and creativity intersect with a deep love for one's roots. Dixon, New Mexico, is fortunate to be the backdrop for such remarkable creativity, and the art world is richer for having Jim Vogel as one of its treasures.
View current works by Jim Vogel at Blue Rain Gallery
Upcoming show: Fabulórico
September 29 – October 14, 2023 — Santa Fe, New Mexico
Artist Reception: Friday, September 29th from 5 - 7pm
