Ron Martinez Looking Elk
Branigar Fellow 1997-1998
Ronald Martinez Looking Elk of Isleta/Taos Pueblo comes from a traditional family and
he is an active Pueblo potter participating frequently in markets, shows, and exhibitions.
He received his Associate of Fine Arts Degree in 1993 from the Institute of American
Indian Arts and is currently pursuing his Bachelors Degree in Native American Art History
at the University of New Mexico (UNM). In 1994-95 he was awarded a scholarship from the
East West Center, Office of Public Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he completed an
internship in their art galleries working with Native artists from throughout the Pacific.
Ron has been on the National Dean's Honor list throughout his academic career, and is
listed in the Who's Who among Minority Students. He also spent a year in 1993 as a
cultural exchange student in Ingelheim, Germany.
While at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA), Ron was the Student Body President,
and served as an Ex Officio on the IAIA Board of Trustees. While serving in this capacity
he testified before the United States Congress on behalf of IAIA. He has also served in a
variety of positions while at UNM, including President of the Southwest Indian Students
Coalition and the UNM American Indian Council, and has received numerous awards and
scholarships.
His goal is to work with his Pueblo, Isleta, to construct and manage a Cultural Center
within their community, and he has their support. While at the School he was able to work
on this project, he also worked closely with the Native American arts programs, assisted in making
the Dubin artist studio completely functional within the IARC program, and completed the
practical collections management experience of his internship.
Previous Fellows:
Edsel Brown
2000-2001
Miles Miller 1999-2000
Cindy Burnett
1998-1999
Ron Martinez Looking Elk
1997-1998
Kawenniiosta Boots
1996-1997
Tony Chavarria
1995-1996
