About the Artist

The church form speaks to Roberto's love of ecclesiastical architecture and springs from his Benedictine monastic background and world travels. The churches, built of pine and richly painted, are about 12" wide and 16" high and vary in length. While he specializes in the churches, missions and synagogues of New Mexico, beginning in 1985, he has done nearly 1000 pieces inspired by buildings of faith from around the world. He continues working today, and his most recent exhibition is at the Taos Museum of Art Fechin Studio, January 10 - March 1, 2026.

Born in 1939 in Pueblo, CO, Bob has a BA in Mathematics and Philosophy earned while a Benedictine monk, an MA in Art from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Doctorate in Art Education from Arizona State University. He has been a professor at the University of Northern Colorado (1968-69), The Ohio State University (1970-1974), University of Arizona (1974-1981), and Boston University (where he was Director and professor of the Program in Artisanry, 1981-1985). He has been president of the San Antonio Art Institute (1985-1990) and President of the Museum of New Mexico Foundation (1990-1992). In 2009, he was named Master of the Southwest by Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine. He and PJ, his wife (married 1966), a collage artist, have lived in Santa Fe, NM since 1990.

Education

Professional History

Honors

Master of the Southwest — Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine, 2009

Permanent Collections

Museum Exhibitions

Gallery Representation

Collaborator