About Felix Vigil

Creating art is a journey, whether the medium is paint, bronze, wood, glass, clay, or paper. Each has its own intrinsic characteristics, and as an artist, I must acquaint myself with those qualities. The journey for me begins when I observe the world around me. Sometimes it might be a powerful and loud thunderstorm, or a whisper of a word, or the colors of a sunset; maybe the movement of a deer or buffalo dancers, or the eloquent songs of mocking birds singing at daybreak that spark my senses and interest. Inspiration comes in infinite forms. I feel a certain obligation to take these sources of inspiration and explore all perspectives and to find a path to formulate an idea or a visual element or statement. The creative process always takes me into new territory; sometimes rocky, rough, and sometimes smooth as silk. Each new image or work will have its own unique message and purpose. These are the elements of the creative process that I love and bring me great joy. To be challenged and to explore all the possibilities of an idea is what I live for.

I credit my father, Francis Paul Vigil, for laying the foundation for my artistic endeavors. Mother, Juanita, gave me her gift of unconditional love. Grandparents, Juanito and Lupe Sando, taught me the value of hard work and commitment and determination. My family has always been a force of strength and support. I rely on my traditional philosophy and beliefs of the Jicaralla Apache and Hemis to guide me on my artistic journey; and on this path we call life.

Felix Vigil (Jicarilla Apache/Pueblo) was born and raised in Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico.  He was steeped in a traditional Southwestern lifestyle based on ceremony, language, and connection to community.  He received his BFA from the Maryland Art Institute and taught at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  He has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Eiteljorg Fellowship, and awards at the Southwestern Association of Indian Art – Indian Market held each August in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  He has also been featured at shows at the National Museum of the American Indian, the Heard Museum in Phoenix, and the Museum of Indian Arts and Cultures in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  His work is in the collections of several museums, and private collectors.

Felix Vigil is a classically trained fine artist whose contemporary vision is influenced and guided by the spirits of his Jicarilla Apache and Hemis Ancestors. His body of work includes painting, sculpture, film animation, architecture, and literature.