Chris Turri is a “near” native New Mexican, having
lived most of his life in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico. He began
his training as a silversmith 16 years of age, when he apprenticed with the
well-known jeweler, Nick Mora. His work advanced quickly to include stone
cutting and focused on natural Hachita turquoise from a small mine in southern
New Mexico. Chris’ silversmith work ranges from traditional Native American
styles to more modern freestyle. He utilizes handmade tools and several casting
styles.
After learning various trades, Chris expanded his
creative talents to larger sculptures and other metals. Chris currently focuses
his work in steel, copper and stainless steel, using a combination of new and
reclaimed materials. He builds two and three-dimensional sculptures of varying
scale, including custom installations, spirit masks, shamans and water
features. Chris is inspired by humor, love, and the desert land and sky of New
Mexico. Some of the elements that can be found in his work include traditional
native silversmith techniques and a fascination with indigenous arts and
cultures worldwide.
Chris lives with his wife in the
foothills of the Sacramento Mountains, where he supported his family as a
contractor and electrician. In the construction industry, Chris gained
experience with different types of metal, as well as with welding, torch
cutting and woodwork. He maintains an art studio and a metal inventory that
allow him to satiate his creative energy.
As a primarily self-taught artist, Chris does not restrict his art. He experiments freely in his studio. His work is unique in that he develops his own patinas and metal-working techniques, and each piece is "one of a kind." Chris's signature "Spirit Masks" and "Shaman" series are currently shown throughout the United States.
