Original Painting “Male Koshare” by Geraldine Gutierrez

This original painting by Geraldine Gutierrez, titled Male Koshare, captures a single figure dancing and holding up an evergreen branch — an early and classic example of her work painted in the traditional Studio Style. Created in 1978 when Gutierrez was just 19 years old, this piece reflects the influence of her early training and her artistic roots at both Santa Clara and San Ildefonso Pueblos.

Painted with precision and care, the figure is a Koosa (Tewa Clown), a ceremonial presence known for humor and teaching through performance. Like many of her early works, this painting features a lone dancer with no ground plane, rendered in finely controlled watercolor and strong outlines. It is signed and dated by the artist.

Geraldine Gutierrez is the daughter of Helen Atencio (San Ildefonso Pueblo) and Frank Gutierrez (Santa Clara Pueblo) and the niece of renowned painter Gilbert Atencio. Her work balances tradition with individuality — drawing inspiration from her uncle while developing her own vibrant style. Though she would go on to paint complex multi-figure compositions by the mid-1980s, this early piece is a compelling example of her formative vision and enduring connection to Pueblo dance and ceremony.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: This Original Painting "Male Koshare" by Geraldine Gutierrez was previously acquired from Adobe Gallery and is now available through the estate of a longtime gallery client.

Recommended Reading: Modern by Tradition: American Indian Painting in the Studio Style by Bruce Bernstein

TAGS: Helen Atencio, San Ildefonso Pueblo, Santa Clara Pueblo, Native American Paintings, Gilbert Atencio, Southwest Indian Pottery, Geraldine Gutiérrez