Albuquerque, New Mexico, has a thriving wood carving scene influenced by Native American, Hispanic, and Western traditions. From handcrafted santos (religious figures) to contemporary sculptures, the city offers a rich variety of wood art. Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or aspiring carver, here's everything you need to know about wood carving in Albuquerque.
Types of Wood Carving in Albuquerque
1. Traditional Hispanic & Catholic Carvings (Santeros)
Santos & Bultos: Hand-carved religious figures of saints, often made from cottonwood or pine.
Retablos: Painted wooden panels depicting holy figures.
Notable Local Artists: Many carvers follow the centuries-old Spanish Colonial tradition, with some featured at the Spanish Market in Santa Fe (just an hour from Albuquerque).
2. Native American Wood Carvings
Kachina Dolls: Made by Hopi and Zuni artists, these carvings represent spiritual beings.
Storyteller Figures: Wooden sculptures depicting Pueblo oral traditions.
Where to Find Them: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (Albuquerque) and local galleries.
3. Contemporary & Decorative Wood Art
Southwestern-themed carvings (coyotes, roadrunners, desert landscapes).
Custom furniture & wooden signs with intricate detailing.
Abstract & modern sculptures by local wood artists.
Where to Buy Wood Carvings in Albuquerque
1. Galleries & Shops
Old Town Albuquerque: Many shops sell hand-carved santos, kachinas, and folk art.
Manitou Galleries (Albuquerque & Santa Fe) – Features Native American and Western wood carvings.
Palms Trading Post – Specializes in Pueblo and Navajo artwork, including wood carvings.
2. Markets & Festivals
Albuquerque Arts & Crafts Fair – Local woodworkers showcase their pieces.
Spanish Market (Santa Fe) – The best place for traditional santero carvings.
Winter Indian Market – Features Native American wood carvers.
3. Online & Custom Orders
Etsy (Search "Albuquerque wood carving").
Instagram & Facebook – Many local artists promote their work on social media.
Commission a Custom Piece – Some carvers take requests for personalized sculptures.
Albuquerque Wood Carving Classes & Workshops
Want to learn the craft? Check out:
Southwest Woodworkers Guild – Offers classes for beginners and experts.
Harwood Art Center – Occasionally hosts woodworking workshops.
CNM Community Learning Center – Introductory wood carving courses.
Why Albuquerque Wood Carving is Unique
Blends Spanish, Native, and Western styles into distinct Southwestern art.
Uses local woods like juniper, cottonwood, and pine.
Preserves cultural traditions while embracing modern creativity.
