Victor Goler bio

victor goler

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina 1963
Lives and works in Taos, New Mexico
Studied at University of New Mexico, Albuquerque and Colorado Institute of Art, Denver (A.A., 1986)

Gustavo Victor Goler was raised in Santa Fe, New Mexico among a family of Latin American art conservators and restorers. Goler's early years were spent apprenticing in his family's conservation studios where he was taught to carve. This was the segue to his interest in saints. He attended the University of New Mexico and later earned a degree in Graphics and Advertising Design from the Colorado Institute of Art. Currently, he researches the works, techniques and history of New Mexico, European and Latin American carvers but devotes much of his time to exploring his own artistic pursuits. Victor's work is considered to be progressive and his increasing knowledge of iconography and religious themes as well as his growing ability to manipulate his medium have made him a popular sculptor.

In addition to his bultos and retablos, Goler has mastered other media including lithographs. His skills as a wood carver have elevated him to an award winning artist-including numerous "First Place" awards and two "Grand Prize" awards at Spanish Market in Santa Fe, NM. Goler has also consulted on and lectured about Santero techniques and history at notable venues including the Smithsonian Institution. His work can be found in publications, museum collections and churches across the country.

Selected Public Collections

Gene Autrey Western Heritage Museum, Los Angeles, CA

Christ in the Desert Monastery, Abiquiu, NM

El Rancho de las Golondrinas, La Cienega, NM

Harwood Foundation, Taos, NM

Holy Cross Church, Santa Cruz, NM

Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque

Museum of International Folk Art, Santa Fe, NM

Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Albuquerque

Saint Francis Cathedral, Santa Fe

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Santa Fe

Santa Maria de la Paz Church, Santa Fe

Taylor Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado