ARTIST STATEMENT: "I'm a native of El Rito, NM. I moved to Albuquerque and joined the Fire Department in 1965. Upon my retirement from the Fire Department, I worked for the Albuquerque Publishing Co. (Albuquerque Journal) as a security supervisor at the newspaper plant.

Eleven years ago, I moved back to my hometown, El Rito, and I enrolled at the Northern New Mexico Community College.

The late Tim Roybal, the Spanish wood carving instructor, asked me to enroll in his class. After much consideration and encouragement from Mr. Roybal, I enrolled.

To create a piece of furniture from rough lumber is very rewarding to me, and no two pieces of art are alike. I enjoy carving and creating different items. My wife and children have been a great inspiration to me, and have encouraged me to continue my carving.

My youngest son, Nelson, has taken an interest in carving and does good work."