Hollis Chitto

Chitto’s unique style is the product of early exposure to art ecosystems like SWAIA and having been constantly surrounded by many talented artists, including his father who is a potter and SAR’s 2006 Ronald and Susan Dubin Native Artist Fellow. When one looks at Hollis’ work, the influence of traditional Pueblo pottery becomes apparent and yet he challenges viewers with conceptual and abstract elements. For example, the health and well-being of Native communities is one theme that Chitto interrogates as HIV/Aids and queerness are directly inserted into his work.  

In Chitto’s words:

Being a two-spirit bead worker, I see myself as the convergence of the two sides of my family. My role as a two spirit is traditionally to bring in spiritual teachings to the physical world; I see the act of bringing beauty into the world as a spiritual act. For me that is my life’s purpose, which is to bring beauty into the world. Whenever I finish a piece, I take time to appreciate the feeling of creating something that has not yet been seen. In my view, the act of creating my artwork is a gift that I do not take for granted.

While at SAR, Hollis will embark on a soft-sculpture doll project that depicts a two-spirit couple in beaded and quilled regalia.  

Hollis Chitto will be in residence June 15, 2022 through August 15, 2022.