Mateo Romero is a internationally-known contemporary Southwest Pueblo painter.

His art juxtaposes, in his words, ”timeless, archaic elements of Pueblo culture…(with) contemporary abstract expressionist palette knife and brush work.”

His work deals with present day native experiences, cultural events and family stories.

Romero’s style and approach has changed over the years.

Early on in his career he focussed on traditional Southwest landscapes and native experiences, many of a political nature.

Currently his work has become more abstract, his knife palette using heavy dabs of paint.

We met Romero as a young man on a trip to Santa Fe at his studio after having bought three of his paintings at a local gallery.

Born and raised in Berkley, California, he lives with his family in Pojoaque Pueblo, near Santa Fe, Mexico, site of his studio.

An award winning artist Romero’s works have been shown in Canada, Europe and throughout the United States.

He is the recipient of Native Treasurers Living Treasurers Award, honouring Native American artists for outstanding artistic contributions to the indigenous arts and culture.