Donnie Salazar
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I would like to share the story behind my work, which has developed over a period of sixteen years. My artistic vision stems from my deep love for New Mexico, its people, its history, and my own heritage. Although I was born in Braintree, England, while my father was serving in the U.S. Military, I have lived in Santa Fe for over fifty years, and this is truly where my heart is. I am happily married to my wife, Florence, and we have three grown children.
My professional background heavily influences my art. I worked as an industrial equipment mechanic for the City of Santa Fe from 1989 until my retirement in 2014. During my final five years with the city, I also took up taxidermy, joining the New Mexico Taxidermy Association and winning numerous awards before deciding to explore new ways to work with my hands.
Having spent years working with heavy machinery and building muscle cars, I began experimenting with shaping, cutting, and giving life to images inspired by my Spanish ancestry and my grandfather's Native American heritage. I prefer working in a larger medium because it expresses more emotion and provides a stronger voice for my concepts. Using welders, plasma cutters, and large machinery, I ensure that each steel sculpture I create is entirely unique. My patinas vary depending on the piece and the preferences of my collectors.
My life as a steel sculptor has just begun, and I look forward to seeing where this wonderful world of art leads me. I am a firm believer in destiny, and I feel truly blessed to create and do what I love.
Artwork
*click on each image to see more info

