Virgil Ortiz and William Carson’s collaborative works convey their shared material language. Both artists foreground personally significant natural materials as part of the message of their artworks. For Ortiz, who grew up in Cochiti Pueblo, clay and traditional designs are integral to his visual language. Carson’s art considers cultural relationships to fossil fuels and raises questions about how we value natural materials. Growing up on a cattle ranch in rural Montana surrounded by coal mines inspired his interest in working with coal to create paintings, sculptures, sound performances, and time-based installations.

The runners carried more than a message — they carried the survival of our people. It is my responsibility, as a Pueblo artist, to keep running that cord forward.
— VO

Po’pay, leader of the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, has been recognized throughout history as the man who made it possible for Pueblo culture to survive and preserve itself through the centuries. Po’pay dispatched runners carrying knotted cords to all the Pueblos. When the last knot was untied, it set off the uprising — a remarkable feat against the invaders. Although the victory lasted only 12 years, the revolt remains a pivotal era in New Mexico’s history. Learn more about the Pueblo Revolt here.

Revolt Runner | VO x William Carson
Daybreak of the Resistance (2024)

Specs:
36"h x 24"w x 6.5"d

Technique:
Coal and acrylic on panel, ceramic Runner mask, leather knotted cord .