2 Murals by Charles Lovato
Painted predominantly in blacks, whites, and earth tones, these two murals are a visual affirmation of the artists appreciation of the gifts of life and the deep bond between man, the physical world, and the universe. The Sounds of Life and Earth As It Breathes represent the whole world - the water, the earth's surface. and the sky. Tadpoles suggest the importance of water; deer, the needed game food; a figure ascending from the earth releases butterflies, a symbol of fertility. A beautiful bowl illustrates man' creativity, while an ear of corn attests to corn's value as the staff of life. The Fruits of Life expresses thanks for the animals, birds, and turquoise. Taken together, the two murals complement each other, demonstarting that the Pueblo Indian's religion is personal and all-encompassing and that he is in harmony with the natural and supernatural worlds.

The Artist
Charles Lovato, from Santo Domingo Pueblo, was widely known for his jewelry before he began to paint. Recognition in this new field came swiftly when he won a major award at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. He lives on his grandfather's land between Santo Domingo and Cochiti Pueblos with his wife, Clara, who fashions prize-winning heishi jewelry. they have five children. Many of his paintings are accompanied by original poems, which further enhance their meaning. he has had many one man shows and is represented in galleries in California, Oklahoma, Texas, and New York, as well as in New Mexico. He is listed in Who's Who in American Art. Mr Lovato is one of very few painters from Santo Domingo, a conservative Pueblo which has not encouraged painting by its members.