J.D. Roybal (Oquwa), San Ildefonso Pueblo Painter

Artist José Desiderio Roybal (1922 - 1978) Oquwa ("Rain God") was a well-known at San Ildefonso Pueblo (Po-Woh-Geh-Owingeh). He used water-based paints throughout his career. His excellent detail in small paintings never went unnoticed. In his work there prevails fine color, excellent detail, small and fine outlines, gesturing figures, and a pleasing combination of heavy conventional themes with realistic subjects.

He did a bit of painting in the 1930s but was not very productive until the 1950s. He was most productive in the 1960-1970 decade. His most popular subject matter was his rendition of the Tewa Clowns known as Koshare or Koosa. Often, he presented them in a jovial manner. Born at San Ildefonso Pueblo (Po-Woh-Geh-Owingeh), the son of Tonita and Juan Cruz Roybal. He was a nephew of famous artist Alfonso Roybal (Awa Tsireh).

TAGS: San Ildefonso Pueblo, Tonita and Juan Cruz Roybal, Alfonso Roybal - Awa Tsireh, Native American Painting