The Northern Rio Grande National Heritage Area is proud to announce our 2022 Artist in Residence, two-time winner of the Archbishop’s award, Best of Show-Grand Prize Winner, and twice featured Poster Artist for the Spanish Market – Joseph Ascensión López.
Born and raised in Northern New Mexico, Joseph has been creating Spanish Colonial Art for most of his life—working alongside his father Felix and sister Krissa Maria. With extensive world travel and a deep-rooted connection to his cultural heritage, Joseph has honed his skills as a Santero over the years, mastering the techniques and symbolism associated with these art forms. Dedicating himself to these traditional arts when he was only seven years old, Joseph has been fresco painting for the last five years. Through meticulously crafted Santos, Joseph brings to life the rich spiritual traditions of Northern New Mexico.
