Ralph Roybal, Albuquerque Artist

Ralph Roybal (b. 1955): Master of Bronze Sculpture in the American West

Ralph Roybal, a distinguished Albuquerque-based artist (b. 1955), dedicates his exceptional talents to crafting bronze sculptures that vividly capture the spirit of the American West. His artistic journey began with invaluable experience at the Santa Fe Foundry and the Dell Weston Studio Foundry, where twelve years of dedicated apprenticeship honed his skills and propelled him to full-time sculpture work by 1985. This extensive hands-on training has enabled Roybal to create some of the finest bronze sculptures in the Southwest.

A defining hallmark of Roybal's work is his masterful use of rich polychrome patinas. He pioneered this technique at a time when few recognized its beauty, and it has since become synonymous with his distinctive style. From his studio, Roybal meticulously creates and completes every stage of his bronzes, with the exception of the initial casting. He personally insists on performing the final detailing and applying the intricate patinas, ensuring each piece reflects his precise artistic vision. Every bronze is then signed, numbered, and marked with his copyright, guaranteeing its authenticity.

Roybal's artistic excellence has been widely recognized, notably as the 2010 Contemporary Hispanic Market first-place winner in sculpture in Santa Fe, New Mexico. His work continues to be celebrated for its technical brilliance, evocative storytelling, and innovative use of color.

Source: Ralph Roybal website.

TAGS: Albuquerque, Santa Fe, N.M, Bronze Sculpture