USPS Unveils New Stamps Showcasing Cochiti Pueblo Artist's Masterpiece from Gathering of Nations

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – In a serene studio nestled within Pojoaque Pueblo, each stroke of the brush conveys a narrative deeply connected to identity. Currently, an artist from Cochiti Pueblo is set to have their creations showcased to a broader public than ever before.

The USPS Forever Stamps now feature Mateo Romero's depictions of Indigenous dancers Tony and Violet Duncan along with their family.

"It features images of them; these are portraits of Tony Duncan who performs the hoop dance. Violet Duncan, her heritage is First Nations Cree, specializes in the women’s traditional dance. Their daughter is featured performing a fancy shawl dance. The fourth style showcased here is KamiJo Whiteclay, known for her crow hop," Romero clarified.

The creative vision behind the stamps began with an art director for the United States Postal Service. Antonio Ancalá reached out to Romero with a clear vision in mind: “highlight Native art through Native eyes.”

"It's incredibly gratifying to receive this honorable recognition for being part of a stamp that symbolizes such a crucial aspect of our country’s legacy and traditions, knowing it will travel all across the United States," stated Ancalá.

At this year’s Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque, thousands of people flocked to EXPO New Mexico to celebrate Native American and Indigenous dances and culture. This year, Romero’s work held a special place in the event as the USPS held a first-day-of-issue ceremony for the “Powwows: Celebrating Native American Culture” stamps Friday.

This year’s Gathering of Nations celebration ends Saturday night at Expo New Mexico.

You can buy the Forever Stamps through this method. link .

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