Vigil listed as one of 12 ‘New Mexico Artists to Know Now’ in 2023 

Chronicles of Contrast, a mixed media experimental photography show by Cougar Vigil of the Jicarilla Apache Tribe, delves into the interplay between appropriation, stereotypes, and images used to represent Native American culture. Drawing from his childhood on the reservation and the traditions of his Tribe, Vigil’s work explores the contrast between true representation of Indigeneity, sourcing images from an archive that he collected as a photojournalist for his Tribal newspaper, and the stereotypical depictions spread through mainstream media. 

The collaged fabric cyanotypes, including recognizable Native American artifacts such as bows and arrows mixed with abstract patterns and plants, challenge the viewer’s ability to recognize the subject matter and prompt them to look more closely. By blending the time-tested practice of photography with a unique contemporary approach to collage, each piece tells a story without giving much away. By weaving these images, Vigil creates space for the audience to become curious, ask questions, and learn about Indigenous culture rather than speculate from a distance. Vigil on his work — Now is an important time to “connect Indigenous narratives with the broader public sphere to combat generalizations and simplified sentiments of Indigeneity.” 

Vigil is a documentary and experimental photographer from the Jicarilla Apache Nation in Northern New Mexico. His passion for photography began in high school in the early 2000s. Based in New Mexico, Vigil’s work is deeply rooted in his responsibility to his community and traditional Jicarilla Apache scholarship. His unique approach to photography explores themes related to Indigenous identity and incorporates elements of his photography archive. Vigil graduated from Pratt Institute, earning his Master of Fine Arts in 2018. In addition to his work as a photographer, Vigil is also the Editor of the Jicarilla Chieftain, a Tribal newspaper. In recognition of his contributions to the arts in New Mexico, Vigil was selected as one of the twelve artists to know in the state in 2023 by Southwest Contemporary magazine. Vigil’s dedication to his craft and community is evident in all he does, and he continues to inspire others through his art and teaching. 

Southwest Contemporary’s 12 New Mexico Artists to Know Now project issues an annual statewide open call to artists to submit their work for consideration for what has become a popular and well-regarded presentation of the most exceptional talent and compelling 

contemporary artwork being made throughout New Mexico. The 2023 call received 380 submissions and was juried by Danyelle Means, curator and arts administrator, most recently executive director of the Center for Contemporary Arts Santa Fe; Rachelle B. Pablo, curator at 516 ARTS in Albuquerque; and Aaron Wilder, curator of collections and exhibitions at the Roswell Museum. Southwest Contemporary is an art media business that produces curated, critical content about contemporary arts and culture across the Southwest. 

The opening reception is on Friday, Nov. 8, from 6-9p.m. with the artist in attendance. The exhibition runs from Nov. 8 through Dec. 6. Revolt Gallery is located at 222 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte in Taos, N.M. and is open by appointment. 

REVOLT GALLERY 

Since opening in 2017, Revolt Gallery has sought to offer a space for local, emerging, and underground artists to be heard in the Taos community. Revolt Gallery offers a reflection of New Mexico’s unique and evolving cultural landscape through Taos’ growing local talent, alongside a number of international artists who share a common vision. Revolt Gallery has transformed its historic downtown site into a dynamic, thriving facility for artistic exploration. With unique indoor and outdoor areas, Revolt Gallery hosts a variety of events and exhibits – from small to large- scale installations, immersive music, art, performances, and more. Revolt Gallery’s mission is to support artists from diverse backgrounds and elevate the voices of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQIA+ people, and other underrepresented individuals. Revolt Gallery is committed to artistic and creative freedom for all. 

UNM-TAOS 

The University of New Mexico–Taos Department of Fine Arts, Film and Digital Media offers an Associate of Fine Arts, an Associate of Arts in Film and Digital Media Arts, a Film Technician Certificate, and a Graphic Design Certificate. Fine Arts courses include a variety of studio disciplines, including art practices, drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, metals, photography, and printmaking as well as art history. The FDMA program offers filmmaking, graphics, animation, and multimedia using digital tools in preparation for a career in media arts. Students are supported in following their personal goals beyond community college including pursuing degrees or working within the art community of Taos and beyond.