The Making of San Geronimo de Taos

San Geronimo de Taos holds a special place in the history of New Mexico. Located in Taos Pueblo just north of Taos, this massive adobe church was built around 1850 and later modified with twin bell towers. Its walls are nearly three feet thick, and it remains central to Taos Pueblo ceremonies and feast days to this day.

This sculpture tries to capture its age, history, and spirit. The process began with careful study of the original structure — its proportions, the way light falls on the massive adobe walls, the relationship between the twin towers and the entrance.

From Pine to Church

Working in pine allows me to carve and shape each element by hand. The wood grain becomes part of the texture, echoing the roughness of sun-dried adobe. After the basic form is carved, painting begins — layer upon layer of color to capture the warm earth tones of the Southwest.

PJ’s Drawer Collage

My wife PJ Cardinale created the drawer collage for this piece, using found objects that reflect the blending of Pueblo and Catholic traditions at Taos Pueblo. The drawer adds a hidden dimension to the sculpture — a secret interior that rewards close looking.

Now in the Collection of Mark and Debbie Ortel

This sculpture was acquired during the Taos Art Museum Fechin Studio Exhibition in early 2026. Commissions of similar pieces are welcome.