Lisa Maue

My grandparents were both artists - my grandmother, a muralist; my grandfather, an illustrator.  I recently finished an Arts and Graphic Arts program at NMSU-Alamogordo to complement my degrees in Psychology and the Humanities from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon.

 I moved to the Alto area in 1983.  I remember traveling to a ski race shortly after I arrived in New Mexico.  Somewhere between Duran and Encino, I was looking out the window at what I could only describe as miles and miles of nothingness.  My traveling companion, perhaps reading my thoughts, said, “Isn’t it beautiful?”  I looked at her as if she was mad.  She said, (and I’ll never forget it) “Lisa, what you are seeing now will never be the same.  The clouds, the light and the colors will change as soon as we pass.”  I’ve taken that perspective and applied it to how and what I see each and everyday.

I worked for several artists in the area.  I worked as a foundry rat for Dave McGary, a ceramicist for Garrett Trent, and, most recently as a stitcher for Judy Chicago’s Resolutions project that opened at the Craft Museum in New York City.  Five years ago, I decided to experiment on my own.  I chose tile so I could paint and sculpt.  I use an airbrush to paint scenes primarily from the area.  I also sculpt local wildlife and birds.

Tile also allows me to work in what is often seen as a common material.  Common, everyday scenes also appeal to me.  Whether it is a rusting pick-up truck, an abandoned adobe or a thunderstorm brewing on a typical summer day, I find beauty in the ordinary.

My studio is on Ski Run Road (Hwy 532) in Alto.  I may be reached by phone number at (575) 336-4061 or email at maue@zianet.com.

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