It’s nearly impossible to describe the creative work of someone like Native Artist Shane Hendren. Every time one tries to pin him down with a few words of description, he quickly wriggles away and suddenly turns up somewhere else doing something completely new and different from what he was doing when you saw him last.
http://sonewmex.com/images/turquoisesm.jpg
Stunning earrings are one of Shane's specialties
In his personal artist’s statement Hendren explains his work this way…
“My studio is a chapel for creativity. A place where ideas are given concrete expression. I find a sublime beauty in simple natural forms such as the freckled pattern of butterflies or the cloud formation of a cumulous nimbus. I draw inspiration from these natural elements. In my work, I do not try to recreate these forms. However, I do try to capture a similar sublime beauty with precious materials. From start to finish, each piece is fabricated by me in my studio. My work involves several techniques in order to foster a line of contemporary jewelry which has a beautifully feminine character with slightly industrial undertones. My work is a conglomeration of traditional iconography, imagery and techniques as well as formal, historical, and contemporary influences. This amalgamation is a reflection of my existence as an indigenous person living in today’s modern world. The subject matter represented in my work is as diverse as the aboriginal populous that it represents. Authenticity and accurate representation of the universe I exist in is my most basic objective when producing my work.”
Notice how he carefully avoids words that define what he does or how he does it. There are good reasons for that.
For those not familiar with his art, one could describe Shane’s work as beautiful and unique but then one could also call the Grand Canyon or the painted-desert really pretty too. Somehow words simply fail to communicate the deeper meaning in such cases. Both Mr. Hendren and his art are like that -- larger than life, and so richly complex, far-reaching and unique one tends to find oneself standing on the sidelines with lips moving and head spinning and nothing coming out but meaningless noises and gibberish when one tries to define it..
http://sonewmex.com/images/roadwarrior.jpg
Hendren's line art is subtley humourous as this piece titled "Road Warrior" clearly shows
You could say Hendren is a metal worker and jewelry designer and that indeed he is. But the moment those words left your lips, you’d find yourself turning a corner and running smack dab into one of his remarkably detailed and subtly funny line art drawings. Or you might describe him as a sketch artist and you’d turn ‘round and run into one of his award-winning photographs. Or you could say he makes small and beautiful things and the next moment you’d bump your head on one of his 6’ tall metal sculptures.
Worse yet, one could also describe Hendren himself as very cute or as a remarkably good looking fellow. But saying that might tend to create an effete impression of the guy. Then you’d find yourself faced with the fact that he has also been known to ride bulls in the rodeo!
http://sonewmex.com/images/foxpendsm.jpg
Just one word describes this piece... breathtaking!
One could even say Shane is a self-taught artist. After all, the stories say he started drawing at age 3 and didn’t receive much formal training until he was picked as exceptional Native Artist in his teens. But then you’d run across the fact that he’s also a degreed fine artist and a trained museum curator too.
See what we mean? How does one define such a person?
To avoid verbal traps, perhaps it would be best to say Hendren is a modern Renaissance man… A 21st century da Vinci who hasn’t gotten around to painting his Mona Lisa yet, or to designing helicopters, airplanes and flying saucers either. But heck, this guy’s still young. At age 36, he’s got years ahead of him to do that stuff… IF he doesn’t break his darned fool neck falling off a bull first, that is!
So, we’ve decided to dodge the verbal bullet and instead describe Shane Hendren as what he is… an amazingly talented, versatile and award winning Native Artist whose work defies description but deserves the attention of any serious student or collector of New Mexico art. He’s the caliber of artist whose work is likely to remain collectible and continue to grow in value no matter how long you own it.
There. We’ve said it. Shane’s work is worth owning and collecting. Furthermore we’re betting those who do collect his art will one day find their collection is worth much more than they paid for it.
http://sonewmex.com/images/buffalo1995hor.jpg
At 6'x 4'x 2', Hendren's enormous Buffalo consumes 48 cubic feet of space.
What more can we say except that a visit to Mr. Hendren’s web site is certainly worthwhile. You’ll find his site at: <A href="http://www.shanehendren.com/" target=_blank>www.shanehendren.com (http://www.shanehendren.com)
Here’s a short article we received recently from Albuquerque publicist Rayne Eaglefeather about Shane’s work. Thanks for the heads-up, Rayne!
-----------------------------------------------
Newly Recreated Historic Hotel, the US Grant,
Will Showcase Original Art
SAN DIEGO – The US Grant, located in the heart of downtown San Diego, and newest member of Starwood Hotels elite Luxury Collection, is showcasing art as part of a $52 million dollar restoration slated for completion in the fall of 2006. The US Grant, which has defined Southern Californian grace and grandeur since it opened in 1910, is creating an innovative approach to its art program by marrying a contemporary slate of original work from an international array of artists to the history and ownership of the storied hotel.
The US Grant was built by Ulysses S. Grant Jr. to honor his Civil War hero and two-term U.S. President father, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In December 2003, the legendary property was purchased for $45 million by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, the Native American tribe that originally settled on the land that now includes downtown. Sycuan’s purchase of the hotel represents an ancestral tribute to President Grant, who in 1875 signed an Executive Order setting aside 640 acres of land in Dehesa Valley in San Diego’s East County for the Kumeyaay Nation.
Sycuan has not only carefully selected craftsman to restore the opulent, beaux arts architectural details of the hotel -- such as the gold-toned marble pillars and the sweeping white Italian marble grand staircase with its alabaster banister – but it has also commissioned renowned artists to create a stunning collection of new sculptures, ironwork, murals and paintings to be showcased throughout the property. In commissioning significant new work from European, American and Native American artists, the Tribe is ensuring that the art of The US Grant will herald the renaissance of this cultural landmark..
SHANE HENDREN - Ironwork
New Mexico-based artist Shane Hendren was selected by Sycuan to create the ironwork for the hotel. The award-winning Native American artist has a background in museum management and is known for his jewelry designs and advanced metal-smithing techniques. Hendren explains that the design of his commissioned ironwork at the hotel – including the crowned ironwork above the entryway, the railings along the walkway in front of the hotel, and the iron gateway on the entrance to the parking structure – will correspond to the turn-of-the-century era of the hotel but with a modern flair. The yellow primrose will be a recurring theme in this work as well.
“My work is a conglomeration of traditional iconography, imagery and techniques, as well as formal, historical and contemporary influences. This amalgamation is a reflection of my existence as an indigenous person living in today’s modern world,” he explains.
Hendren says that the design and creation of the ironwork for the hotel will take a total of six months and says he is very supportive of the idea behind the overall US Grant project. “The Sycuan Tribe is working hard to search out key artists to create original art for this hotel. It would have been much less expensive to build an entirely new hotel than to create an authentic monument to a man and his legacy, but this is the path of integrity that these astute business people chose to take.”
“So many stories about Native Americans accentuate the negative – in films and books it is always about political injustice and suffering,” he continues. “Here the differences between the old world and today for Native Americans are combined in a beautiful way and brought into a modern context. For instance, ceremonial dances used to be part of everyday life in the tribes. By displaying Native American sculptures, metal work and paintings in such a luxurious modern setting, our people will be dancing again everyday for everyone.” (505)883-0301 www.shanehendren.com (http://www.shanehendren.com/)
The US Grant™ is the world-class embodiment of the history, spirit and singularcharacter of Downtown San Diego. The landmark hotel re-opens in November 2006 as a member of the elite Starwood Luxury Collection after a meticulous $52 million renovation and historic restoration by its owner, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. Located at 326 Broadway, San Diego 92101 and originally opened in 1910, the 11-story hotel has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979. When completed, the historically chic hotel will offer 270 guest rooms, including 47 suites; 33,000 square feet of ballroom and special event space weaving elegance and history with 21stcentury technology, and a contemporary interpretation of the legendary Grant Grill and Lounge. The hotel is steps from the city’s fashionable Gaslamp Quarter, theater and financial districts and minutes from San Diego and the area’s famed visitor attractions. With entirely new furnishings, décor and original works of art in both public spaces and guest rooms, The US Grant is an urban sanctuary in the heart of one of America’s most dynamic cities. For additional in information, please call (619) 232-3121, or visit The US Grant online at: www.luxurycollection.com/usgrant (http://www.luxurycollection.com/usgrant)
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 850 properties in more than 95 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood® Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, Sheraton®, Westin®, Four Points® by Sheraton, W®, Le Méridien® and the recently announced aloft<SUP>SM</SUP>. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operator of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/).
By Albuquerque Reporter
© 2006 SONewMex.com - Reprint Permission Granted
It’s nearly impossible to describe the creative work of someone like Native Artist Shane Hendren. Every time one tries to pin him down with a few words of description, he quickly wriggles away and suddenly turns up somewhere else doing something completely new and different from what he was doing when you saw him last.
http://sonewmex.com/images/turquoisesm.jpg
Stunning earrings are one of Shane's specialties
In his personal artist’s statement Hendren explains his work this way…
“My studio is a chapel for creativity. A place where ideas are given concrete expression. I find a sublime beauty in simple natural forms such as the freckled pattern of butterflies or the cloud formation of a cumulous nimbus. I draw inspiration from these natural elements. In my work, I do not try to recreate these forms. However, I do try to capture a similar sublime beauty with precious materials. From start to finish, each piece is fabricated by me in my studio. My work involves several techniques in order to foster a line of contemporary jewelry which has a beautifully feminine character with slightly industrial undertones. My work is a conglomeration of traditional iconography, imagery and techniques as well as formal, historical, and contemporary influences. This amalgamation is a reflection of my existence as an indigenous person living in today’s modern world. The subject matter represented in my work is as diverse as the aboriginal populous that it represents. Authenticity and accurate representation of the universe I exist in is my most basic objective when producing my work.”
Notice how he carefully avoids words that define what he does or how he does it. There are good reasons for that.
For those not familiar with his art, one could describe Shane’s work as beautiful and unique but then one could also call the Grand Canyon or the painted-desert really pretty too. Somehow words simply fail to communicate the deeper meaning in such cases. Both Mr. Hendren and his art are like that -- larger than life, and so richly complex, far-reaching and unique one tends to find oneself standing on the sidelines with lips moving and head spinning and nothing coming out but meaningless noises and gibberish when one tries to define it..
http://sonewmex.com/images/roadwarrior.jpg
Hendren's line art is subtley humourous as this piece titled "Road Warrior" clearly shows
You could say Hendren is a metal worker and jewelry designer and that indeed he is. But the moment those words left your lips, you’d find yourself turning a corner and running smack dab into one of his remarkably detailed and subtly funny line art drawings. Or you might describe him as a sketch artist and you’d turn ‘round and run into one of his award-winning photographs. Or you could say he makes small and beautiful things and the next moment you’d bump your head on one of his 6’ tall metal sculptures.
Worse yet, one could also describe Hendren himself as very cute or as a remarkably good looking fellow. But saying that might tend to create an effete impression of the guy. Then you’d find yourself faced with the fact that he has also been known to ride bulls in the rodeo!
http://sonewmex.com/images/foxpendsm.jpg
Just one word describes this piece... breathtaking!
One could even say Shane is a self-taught artist. After all, the stories say he started drawing at age 3 and didn’t receive much formal training until he was picked as exceptional Native Artist in his teens. But then you’d run across the fact that he’s also a degreed fine artist and a trained museum curator too.
See what we mean? How does one define such a person?
To avoid verbal traps, perhaps it would be best to say Hendren is a modern Renaissance man… A 21st century da Vinci who hasn’t gotten around to painting his Mona Lisa yet, or to designing helicopters, airplanes and flying saucers either. But heck, this guy’s still young. At age 36, he’s got years ahead of him to do that stuff… IF he doesn’t break his darned fool neck falling off a bull first, that is!
So, we’ve decided to dodge the verbal bullet and instead describe Shane Hendren as what he is… an amazingly talented, versatile and award winning Native Artist whose work defies description but deserves the attention of any serious student or collector of New Mexico art. He’s the caliber of artist whose work is likely to remain collectible and continue to grow in value no matter how long you own it.
There. We’ve said it. Shane’s work is worth owning and collecting. Furthermore we’re betting those who do collect his art will one day find their collection is worth much more than they paid for it.
http://sonewmex.com/images/buffalo1995hor.jpg
At 6'x 4'x 2', Hendren's enormous Buffalo consumes 48 cubic feet of space.
What more can we say except that a visit to Mr. Hendren’s web site is certainly worthwhile. You’ll find his site at: <A href="http://www.shanehendren.com/" target=_blank>www.shanehendren.com (http://www.shanehendren.com)
Here’s a short article we received recently from Albuquerque publicist Rayne Eaglefeather about Shane’s work. Thanks for the heads-up, Rayne!
-----------------------------------------------
Newly Recreated Historic Hotel, the US Grant,
Will Showcase Original Art
SAN DIEGO – The US Grant, located in the heart of downtown San Diego, and newest member of Starwood Hotels elite Luxury Collection, is showcasing art as part of a $52 million dollar restoration slated for completion in the fall of 2006. The US Grant, which has defined Southern Californian grace and grandeur since it opened in 1910, is creating an innovative approach to its art program by marrying a contemporary slate of original work from an international array of artists to the history and ownership of the storied hotel.
The US Grant was built by Ulysses S. Grant Jr. to honor his Civil War hero and two-term U.S. President father, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In December 2003, the legendary property was purchased for $45 million by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, the Native American tribe that originally settled on the land that now includes downtown. Sycuan’s purchase of the hotel represents an ancestral tribute to President Grant, who in 1875 signed an Executive Order setting aside 640 acres of land in Dehesa Valley in San Diego’s East County for the Kumeyaay Nation.
Sycuan has not only carefully selected craftsman to restore the opulent, beaux arts architectural details of the hotel -- such as the gold-toned marble pillars and the sweeping white Italian marble grand staircase with its alabaster banister – but it has also commissioned renowned artists to create a stunning collection of new sculptures, ironwork, murals and paintings to be showcased throughout the property. In commissioning significant new work from European, American and Native American artists, the Tribe is ensuring that the art of The US Grant will herald the renaissance of this cultural landmark..
SHANE HENDREN - Ironwork
New Mexico-based artist Shane Hendren was selected by Sycuan to create the ironwork for the hotel. The award-winning Native American artist has a background in museum management and is known for his jewelry designs and advanced metal-smithing techniques. Hendren explains that the design of his commissioned ironwork at the hotel – including the crowned ironwork above the entryway, the railings along the walkway in front of the hotel, and the iron gateway on the entrance to the parking structure – will correspond to the turn-of-the-century era of the hotel but with a modern flair. The yellow primrose will be a recurring theme in this work as well.
“My work is a conglomeration of traditional iconography, imagery and techniques, as well as formal, historical and contemporary influences. This amalgamation is a reflection of my existence as an indigenous person living in today’s modern world,” he explains.
Hendren says that the design and creation of the ironwork for the hotel will take a total of six months and says he is very supportive of the idea behind the overall US Grant project. “The Sycuan Tribe is working hard to search out key artists to create original art for this hotel. It would have been much less expensive to build an entirely new hotel than to create an authentic monument to a man and his legacy, but this is the path of integrity that these astute business people chose to take.”
“So many stories about Native Americans accentuate the negative – in films and books it is always about political injustice and suffering,” he continues. “Here the differences between the old world and today for Native Americans are combined in a beautiful way and brought into a modern context. For instance, ceremonial dances used to be part of everyday life in the tribes. By displaying Native American sculptures, metal work and paintings in such a luxurious modern setting, our people will be dancing again everyday for everyone.” (505)883-0301 www.shanehendren.com (http://www.shanehendren.com/)
The US Grant™ is the world-class embodiment of the history, spirit and singularcharacter of Downtown San Diego. The landmark hotel re-opens in November 2006 as a member of the elite Starwood Luxury Collection after a meticulous $52 million renovation and historic restoration by its owner, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. Located at 326 Broadway, San Diego 92101 and originally opened in 1910, the 11-story hotel has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979. When completed, the historically chic hotel will offer 270 guest rooms, including 47 suites; 33,000 square feet of ballroom and special event space weaving elegance and history with 21stcentury technology, and a contemporary interpretation of the legendary Grant Grill and Lounge. The hotel is steps from the city’s fashionable Gaslamp Quarter, theater and financial districts and minutes from San Diego and the area’s famed visitor attractions. With entirely new furnishings, décor and original works of art in both public spaces and guest rooms, The US Grant is an urban sanctuary in the heart of one of America’s most dynamic cities. For additional in information, please call (619) 232-3121, or visit The US Grant online at: www.luxurycollection.com/usgrant (http://www.luxurycollection.com/usgrant)
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 850 properties in more than 95 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood® Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, Sheraton®, Westin®, Four Points® by Sheraton, W®, Le Méridien® and the recently announced aloft<SUP>SM</SUP>. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operator of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/).