The Unsung Genius of
Patrociño Barela

Chimayo Trading Staff Report | October 2025

At Chimayo Trading Del Norte we are showing three rare and highly sought after pieces from Patrociño Barela. For a closer look, visit us in the Saint Francis Church Plaza in Ranchos de Taos, NM or online at chimayotrading.com.

16” x 5”
$4200

Patrociño Barela (1900–1964) was a self-taught wood carver from northern New Mexico, renowned for his expressive juniper carvings. Born in Taos, he faced early hardship, losing his mother young and receiving little formal education. By age twelve, he was a runaway, later working as a miner, farmer, railroad laborer, and sheepherder.

In 1931, while repairing a statue of Saint Anthony during the Great Depression, Barela began carving. His work evolved from religious bultos—saint figures—into vivid depictions of human life, capturing love, struggle, and faith. Using a pocketknife and chisel, he worked with juniper’s natural grain, applying coffee or boot black for finish.

17” x 6”
$4950

His intuitive approach produced elongated, emotive figures with raw, narrative power.
In 1936, Barela joined the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Art Project. His carvings gained national attention, with eight pieces displayed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Time magazine called him the “discovery of the year” for his unique style. His work appeared at the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition and New York World’s Fair. Despite recognition, Barela struggled financially, often trading art for necessities.

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Come to the gallery to see where History Meets Art in Taos..

#1 Saint Francis Church Plaza
Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557

575.758.0504

We buy individual pieces or whole collections.

Contact us for the evaluation and resale of your collectible art.
We’re interested in locating relevant collections and original New Mexico artwork for purchase. We buy historic and contemporary relevant paintings, pottery, jewelry, textiles, weavings and more.

Contact us directly to discuss and evaluate your collection. If you’re an artist, contact us about the possibility of selling your art on consignment or direct wholesale purchase.

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