When I was a child my parents took me to Taos, New Mexico several times a year. We would go camping, explore art galleries, and visit the Taos Pueblo. “I will live here one day” I said out loud, standing in the middle of the Pueblo. I was six years old and didn’t know to consider the logistics of my proclamation. The chances of a little Navajo boy growing up and living at the Taos Pueblo was slight to none. “I believe in magic” was my mantra long before I knew what a mantra was or that I indeed had one. The words came to me innocently enough in a song on the radio by The Lovin’ Spoonful. Pinon lingered in my nostrils like holy incense the first morning I woke in the Taos Pueblo. Believe in Magic.

In early spring of 2000, I closed my studio in Santa Fe, New Mexico and began a two year spiritual journey which took me throughout the Southwest and Western United States. Upon returning to New Mexico, I quietly made my home in the Taos Valley. It wasn't long before I learned my mother, Jerry Louise Burns, was living with A.L.S. I left Taos for Albuquerque to live with and care for her for the next two years. Jerry was greeted by her creator in April of 2004 in the comfort of her home. Four years have passed since I have worked as an artist. Four years filled with life defining experiences. I am currently painting once again in the room where my mother crossed over. It is a sacred place. A place of many strong prayers. There isn't a better place for me to grieve and celebrate creation."