Touching Memory: Michael Naranjo's Story
/From growing up with many brothers and sisters in Taos, New Mexico to being blinded— and nearly killed — by a grenade blast in Vietnam, Michael Naranjo didn’t have the start you’d expect of an internationally-acclaimed sculptor.
The artist with his family in Taos. Michael Naranjo as a young man.
His dreams were sparked early on by his mother, Rose Naranjo, a noted potter herself. She noticed his budding talent and fostered in him a lifelong interest in art, especially sculpting. So he wasn’t about to give it all up just because he lost his vision and the use of his right hand.
“He’s My Brother”, Ed of 10, bronze, 32 x 14 x 15 ½ in.
“Earth Fire and Wind”, Ed. of 10, bronze, 29 ½ x 14 ½ x 18 in.
After all, he still had his left hand and, most importantly, his vivid memories of life on the Santa Clara Pueblo. Memories of hunting, fishing, and sacred cultural dances whose energy and movements were seared in his mind long after the drums stopped.
When his wife, Laurie, entered the picture, an artistic dream team was forged. Not only was Laurie happy to move all the way from her home state of New York to marry a “blind Indian from New Mexico”, as Michael jokingly put it – but she was key to unleashing Michael’s full abilities as an artist. And his abilities showed the full scale of his potential early on in his career.
“Spirit Mother”, Ed. of 15, bronze, 27 ½ x 10 ½ x 9 in.
“All Things Are Possible”, Ed. of 5, bronze, 26 x 25 x 12 in.
Ever a humble and genuinely kind person, Michael, his work, and inspiring story won over the art world and global dignitaries alike. As a young artist, Michael presented a crucifix to the Pope himself in Rome and had scaffolding built around Michelangelo’s “David”, allowing him to “see” the historic piece through touch.
Michael has been honored by politicians from the local level to the highest office in the United States, invited to the White House by both President Nixon and President Clinton. However, despite his recognition from high places, Michael creates his art to be experienced by everyone.
Michael with Pope John Paul II Michael with President Nixon Michael with President Clinton
“Through the years, I’ve been denied access to art in many places. As a result, I feel compelled to have my work displayed in public places where it can be seen, touched, and enjoyed by all. ”
“Basic Instincts”, Ed. of 10, bronze, 16 x 12 x 16 in.
Today, his works are in countless private collections, museums, and public spaces. Michael is proudly represented by Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, New Mexico where these pieces and many others are currently available.
For questions or inquiries, please email inquiry@matteucci.com or call the Gallery at 505-982-4631.