Mark Chavez, Chainsaw Sculptor, Art Show and Demonstration

Open Space Visitor Center

6500 Coors Blvd., NW (Between Montaño & Paseo del Norte at Bosque Meadows Rd.)

505-897-8831

When:

April 22nd through June 28th , 2008

Art Opening May 4th 3-5pm, Demonstration May 25th 9am – 4pm-- Free Admission

Contact: Joshua Willis, Parks & Recreation Dept., Open Space Division, 505-897-8831, jrwillis@cabq.gov

Open Space visitors on the West Side have been enjoying the sculptures of local artist and retired City of Albuquerque fire fighter Mark Chavez for a few years now.  Chavez has been busy converting Pueblo Montaño, an Open Space Bosque site located on the SE corner of Montaño and Coors, into a homage to the local flavors of the Southwest. 

The Bosque at the Pueblo Montaño site was overtaken by fire in 2003, but Chavez has done a remarkable job reviving the scorched Cottonwood trees and giving them a second life as sculptures.  Chavez’s sculptures depict native flora and fauna such as Prickly Pair Cactus and Great Horned Owls as well as folklore character, La Llorona (The Weeping Woman). 

More recently Chavez’s work can be seen at the Open Space Visitor Center (OSVC).  Perhaps the most grand and detailed sculpture he has done can be seen at the OSVC.  Mark named this piece “Arbol De Vida” or Tree of Life. 

The Tree of Life is a permanent sculpture at the OSVC that renders the diverse collection of animals indigenous to New Mexico in a totem style wood carving.  We are now honored to host a collection of his remarkable work April 22nd through June 28th , 2008. 

The public is invited to the opening reception May 4th , 3pm – 5pm  and on May 25th, 9am- 4pm for a carving demonstration. 

The Open Space Division invites you to come and enjoy this unique opportunity at the Open Space Visitor Center located at 6500 Coors between Montaño and Paseo del Norte on Bosque Meadows Rd.  Call 505-897-8831 or email jrwillis@cabq.gov for more information.