Santa Fe Living Treasures – Elder Stories

His enthusiasm for the art form spread to his wife, Paula, who he feels is responsible for much of his success. Together they researched, experimented and refined the craft and it became their creative passion.  They were the first artists to exhibit straw appliqué in the Spanish Market, eventually becoming recognized by museums and private collectors.  They have since received the prestigious Master’s Award for Lifetime Achievement, Rotary Club Distinguished Artist of the Year,The Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts and a $20,000 National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship award.

In a true testament to his artistic longevity, Eliseo’s name is embedded in the sidewalk in front of the Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe among the names of his early 20th-century mentors – the Cinco Pintores. His plaque lies between those of Fremont Ellis and Willard Nash, two of his mentors.  

Photo © 2004 Steve Northrup