Growing up in New York with deep roots in New Mexico Christian trekked back and forth between East Coast and the Southwest while growing up. This repeated viewpoint of 35,000 feet above ground deeply shaped his sense of design. Influenced by the different environments and sensibilities from the graffiti covered hard edged urban to the light and nature filled southwest, he creates an exuberant mix of imagery with influences from both worlds. Stylized motifs and a colorful palette are the signatures of Christian’s work.
His preferred method of design stems from a dynamic trio of recycled paint, Shiva Oil paint sticks, and custom-sized canvases with inlayed frames specifically reinforced for each individual piece. Throughout his paintings, Christian presents new ideas, inspiration, and messages for his audience. Whether creating a six-foot canvas or an intimate 12x12 miniature, Christian’s work invites you to travel with him peering down from above with a bird’s eye view of his world.
Christian’s work is in numerous private and public collections. Albuquerque residents can view his murals at Emerson Elementary School, Fourth and Gold, the SW Corner of Central and Graceland, and Van Buren Middle School. His recent and most prominent work consists of the extensive mural beautifying the new river otter exhibition at the Albuquerque bio park and aquarium.
Artist Statement
Gallery with A Cause at the New Mexico Cancer Center is proud to showcase Christian Michael Gallegos during the Mac’n Cheese Festival. He also provided the design for our LIVE art event where we invite you to help finish this beautiful painting which will be exhibited and available for sale in our fall show “The Architecture of Beauty: Works by Prominent NM Artists.” Christian is one of the featured artists in this show.
