Warren Montoya, from Tamaya (Santa Ana Pueblo) and Kha’po Owinge (Santa Clara Pueblo), arrived at the IARC having already gained recognition at Santa Fe Indian Market, Heard Indian Market, and shown in several galleries. He has also contributed to multiple mural installations across New Mexico and has taught classes and mentored younger artists in various mediums. Additionally, REZONATE Art, Montoya’s business, established in 2013, produces events and public art projects that ‘motivate community engagement and influence creative endeavor.’

Montoya’s work has been influenced by graffiti, the surrealist movement, the work of his peers, music, and his faith in his Pueblo heritage. He paints in both acrylic and oil and intentionally works to produce imagery that combats common stereotypes or romanticized notions of Native American and Indigenous peoples. It is his faith in his being, heritage, culture and his connection to all other beings that drives his creative work.

Montoya comments: “Though I am highly influenced or provoked by interactions within modern society and gain substance through my observation of social movements, world affairs, and the influx of technologies within the last two decades, this is not where my inspiration lays. Ultimately, it is this overabundance of modern behaviors within my life that inspires me to look toward traditional indigenous teachings and philosophies to contest the impending takeover.”