THE SOUTHWEST MODERNISM OF JOSEPH RIGGS – NEW ABSTRACTIONS FOR THE 2020’S

2020 explodes with a new decade and the coronavirus crisis.  Explore my paintings with this new video.  For Artists, it is a terrible dilemma because the economic crisis strikes at the heart of our financial existence, but the quarantine gives much greater time in the studio with moments to reflect, explore and refine our craft.  I continue to experiment with the complexities of watercolor along with shape, color, form and Native American imagery.  Santa Fe, Taos, Albuquerque and all of Northern New Mexico provide all of the inspiration for my Southwest Modernism.  Following the extraordinary paths of Georgia O’Keeffe, John Marin, Marsden Hartley, Cady Wells, Andrew Dasburg and many others whose lives led to Northern New Mexico to develop a whole new form of art with imagery based in nature and the environment, I find myself excited every time I look at the mountains, the streams, the stars and nighttime sky.  The mystery of ancient cultures whose roots are clouded in the mists of time continue to fascinate me and provide inspiration for my paintings.  The early 20th Century Modernists led the way, and challenged others like myself to follow. Using the extraordinary watercolors by Daniel Smith, Arches 300 lb Rough Watercolor Paper  and all manner of supplies from Artisan in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the finest art materials contribute to a rich experience. My new Avanyu pieces (water serpents of the Pueblo people) painted early in 2020 explore the Native American imagery with greater abstraction. The video shows the reality of 2020. This is who I am, where I live, and how I make my art. For more information, contact me below, or contact my galley representative, FaraHNHeight Fine Art in Santa Fe at www.farahnheight.com.