Juane Quick-To-See Smith Named First Jada Gonzales Visiting Artist
Advanced art students participated in a printmaking workshop with artists from the studio of renowned painter and sculptor Jaune Quick-To-See Smith, an opportunity made possible through The Jada B. Gonzales ’23 Visiting Artist Series Fund. Smith, who presented her work and discussed her life and career with upper-school students at an assembly, is the first artist taking part in this series.
Smith is a significant figure in contemporary art and the first Native American artist to have her work in the National Gallery. Last year, the Whitney Museum of American Art held a career retrospective for her, highlighting her status as one of the great American artists of our time.
“Jaune Quick-To-See Smith is a national and internationally renowned artist, educator, advocate for the arts, and political activist,” said Tim Mullane, Albuquerque Academy visual arts department chair. “Her career and history are an example of the power of living an engaged life. Asking Jaune to speak to our students seemed a perfect way of honoring the memory of Jada and bringing the power of art to our students. The opportunity for our kids to work beside an artist of her stature is rare and wonderful, and will bring the students a perspective they would not otherwise have.”
Members of Smith’s studio team – Matt Eaton, David Beans, Colleen Joy, David Joy, Hazel Batrezchavez, and Neal Ambrose Smith – also shared samples of their work, their methods, and the meaning behind them.
The Jada B. Gonzales ’23 Artist Series Fund establishes a visiting artist and speaker program to allow recognized artists to come to Albuquerque Academy’s campus to inspire, inform, and enhance our students’ creativity and knowledge of the arts. The program was established in 2023 in remembrance of Jada Gonzales with support from donors. Jada was an artist – both as a writer and photographer; she sought connection and savored the personal discovery inherent in the artistic process. She generously invited others in to share her art, and she was courageous and determined in her pursuit of her unique creative vision. Albuquerque Academy continues to welcome gifts to this fund so the school can enhance the program and continue Jada’s legacy. Click here if you’d like to support this program.
