Virgil Ortiz and William Carson’s collaborative works convey their shared material language. Both artists foreground personally significant natural materials as part of the message of their artworks. For Ortiz, who grew up in Cochiti Pueblo, clay and traditional designs are integral to his visual language. Carson’s art considers cultural relationships to fossil fuels and raises questions about how we value natural materials. Growing up on a cattle ranch in rural Montana surrounded by coal mines inspired his interest in working with coal to create paintings, sculptures, sound performances, and time-based installations.

Revolt Runner | VO x William Carson
Daybreak of the Resistance (2024)

Specs:
36"h x 24"w x 6.5"d

Technique:
Coal and acrylic on panel, ceramic Runner mask, leather knotted cord .