Filimon Aguilar

I use the old method...We had to learn to do it...so that we know what the old-timers had to go through...We are contemporary artists working in traditional forms. [From article in vertical file at Bartlett Library] When Filimón was asked to reflect on the long santero tradition in northern New Mexico, and to identify an artisan from the past who had given him inspiration, he answered without hesitation that it was the 19th century master santero José Rafael Aragón (ca. 1796-1862). He noted that Aragón was an artisan ahead of his time, especially when one considers the crude implements, and that he was possibily unschooled with no formal art training...Filimón regards his carving style as closely resembling that of his mentor Horacio Valdéz. [Retrieved on 8/23/2017 from http://nmsantos.com/ResourceFiles/Artist-Profiles/Aguilar/Aguilar.html]

Because of his artistic accomplishments, as well as his involvement with the community, teaching children and lecturing college students, Aguilar has been dubbed a "master santero," a respected title held by only the most accomplished santeros. [From article in vertical file at Bartlett Library]