Celia Calabaza

Celia Calabaza is a Jicarilla Apache and Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo artist from Dulce, New Mexico located on the Jicarilla Apache reservation. She is currently attending the Institute of American Indian Arts, located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts with an emphasis in Painting, as well as an Associate of Fine Arts degree in Indigenous Liberal Studies. Calabaza’s art practice includes painting, drawing, and digital illustration. She creates vibrant, colorful and intricate pieces that reflect her identity and personal journey.

Where We Meet is inspired by what is sacred to me and that is quiet moments shared between my daughter and I. When I hold my daughter at night, speak softly or simply breathe beside her, everything else fades away. That feeling of safety, love and presence reflects what is important to me. Using acrylic, gouache and iridescent paint, I wanted to show the energy between us. The flowing lines and shimmer were influenced by Oscar Howe’s movement and color, capturing a bond that feels vibrant, spiritual and deeply rooted.