My story

My name is Vaughn Harris.  I was born and raised in Plaza Vieja de Albuquerque, also known as Old Town.  My family dates back many. many generations as one of the original twelve families that founded Old Town.  I come from a rich tradition and humble blending of the Spanish and Indian cultures, for generations, one influencing the other.  

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At the center of Old Town is our Church, San Felipe de Neri.  I grew up with my brother Esteban a tin artist who also contributes to my art.  The architecture of the churches, pueblos, the landscapes colors of nature are reflected in my art.  We all seek answers to questions of life and for me they come through the vibrant mixing of colors and through these images of the Virgin of Guadalupe.  

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Each of my paintings are inspired by the strong image of Our Lady of Guadalupe and at times I find myself painting more than one woman in the frame.  This I think is inspired by the many strong women I've known in my life including my mother and her sisters.  Though my images are uniquely different and  may appear to be unlike the traditional image of the Virgin of Guadalupe -they represent her feminine energy of  nurturing, innocence compassion and prayer as she stands in her power she inspires something great in each of us.

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I paint flowers and hearts to representing an eternal love and compassion she has for humanity.  The "heart tear" you will often find on her cheek, represents a sadness in her heart that people have forgotten how to pray.



Many of the designs appear to be abstract, south west architecture, landscape,  including aztec and pueblo structures.   I sit with paint and pen to create each individual piece while one may have curved feminine lines there are also harder geometric lines that frame or shape each Guadalupana. 

 

In my earlier work, you will find her eyes are closed, perhaps in prayer, or in meditation.  In my more recent works her eyes begin to open perhaps reflecting an awakening of the spirit and consciousness.  I paint large bright eyes and very deep textured eyes  - whether open or closed, each set of eyes offers a different sentiment or mood, like they would on any human being.