Votif Art

One of the reasons that I love living in New Mexico is that ordinary things, things that we all regularly see in passing, have great depth of meaning and history. My latest such fascination is votif art.

The Google definition of votif: Full Definition of VOTIVE. 1. : consisting of or expressing a vow, wish, or desire <a votive prayer> 2. : offered or performed in fulfillment of a vow or in gratitude or devotion.

Art that is created as an offering or message to a higher power would be a reasonable definition of Votif Art. If you are a New Mexico resident I guarantee that you’ve seen this type of art before. There is often a scene narrating an event. Usually depicting a petitioner, a deity or a saint or other religious figure and a description of the favor or miracle received or desired.

Examples of votive art can be found across all continents and at many different periods of history as far back as cave paintings. Some scholars argue that it was the first art, the beginning of art, created by early man in conversation with the great powers that governed the earth and his tribe.

Here in New Mexico, as a result of the strong voice of Spanish Catholic art we are surrounded by votif art.

Chimayo Church - If art made as an offering is our definition then the church at Chimayo comes to mind. Like churchgoers from around the world, artifacts are left there in prayer or thanks for a miracle.

The Retablo - The New Mexican Retablo is a wonderful example of votif art and one that we have all seen. Further, the altar in the home is part of the spiritual life of many New Mexicans. These altars often utilize a Retablo.

The Milagro – These are the religious folk charms we see used on many forms of art. Traditionally they are used for healing purposes or as votive offerings. The use of milagros is a folk custom throughout parts of North, Central, and South America. It accompanied the Spanish as they arrived in Central and South America and then traveled up into what is now the southwestern United States.

It is the intimate connection of average people to this iconic form of art that resonates so fully with the New Mexico artscape. We take our art personally here.