“I don’t go any place for inspiration. It’s here. Home, and in my studio.”
Table of Contents
Upton Ethelbah Jr., known in the art world as Greyshoes, is an acclaimed sculptor whose work has captivated audiences and won numerous awards. His accolades include multiple 1st place honors from prestigious shows like the Santa Fe Indian Market, Heard Museum Indian Fair and Market, Autry Museum Masters of the American West, and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture’s Native Treasures Art Market. In 2009, he was named a Living Treasure by the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe.
Greyshoes’ sculptures are contemporary, stylized, and brimming with movement, deeply rooted in the ceremonial regalia and dances of his Native American heritage from Santa Clara Pueblo and White Mountain Apache. His works encompass a wide range of subjects, including Apache crown dancers, Pueblo corn, deer, elk, antelope, buffalo dancers, pan-American Matachines, and “essentialized” Native American medicine bears and various sacred animals.
First Stepping Stones
Greyshoes’ artistic journey began later in life, at the age of 54. Reflecting on this, he says, “I was 54 years old when I started taking classes in sculpting, and ended up taking six semesters in a row. At 55, I retired from Santa Fe Indian School. I went from never doing anything in art to becoming a full-time sculptor.” His story is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions.
His journey into the world of sculpture is both inspiring and unconventional. A graduate from Sandia High School and a 4 year US Navy veteran, Greyshoes also holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of New Mexico, and is a graduate of the Poeh Cultural Center sculpture program. He was mentored by renowned sculptors like Evelyn Fredericks, Clifford Fragua, Robert Dale Tsosie, George Rivera, and Nelson Tsosie. His commitment to the arts extends beyond his personal work, including serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Southwest Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA), the producers of the Santa Fe Indian Market, from 2001-2003.
Greyshoes acknowledges the challenges faces by sculptors, from acquiring the right tools and materials to finding suitable working spaces. “I started sculpting in Albuquerque in the backyard of some people in the South Valley. I ran an extension cord from the barn, set up a canopy, and ran my power tools off of that. I did what I had to do,” he recounts.
Greyshoes’ resourcefulness and determination have been crucial to his success. Now, he works at his home studio in the picturesque North Valley. His studio is equipped with essential tools like a hydraulic lift and an air compressor, enabling him to handle and transform large pieces of stone into masterpieces. Exclusively using stone in his sculptures, he sources his materials with meticulous care, working with both exotic and domestic varieties such as marble, limestone, alabaster, and onyx. Some of his unique stone originals are selected to be cast in bronze, available in limited editions with patinas in diverse colors, patterns, and textures.
Touched by Stone
For Greyshoes, inspiration is found in the comfort and familiarity of home. “I don’t go any place for inspiration. It’s here. Home, and in the studio,” he shares.
This environment, rich with art and cultural heritage, fuels his creativity. He often reflects on the beauty and traditions of Native American culture, drawing inspiration from ceremonies, dances, and the natural world. His piece “Little Deer Returns to the Mountain” symbolizes the return of wildlife to the Santa Clara Pueblo Forest recovering from a fire, highlighting themes of resilience and renewal.
The emotional depth of Greyshoes’ work is evident in how it touches people’s lives. He recounts a moving experience after installing a 25-foot fabricated steel sculpture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. “One time shortly after it was installed, I noticed that somebody left some sage, cornmeal, and evergreens on the concrete pedestal around it. People had gone to pray there. It’s not just a piece of art; it means something to people– Indian and non-Indian alike. That’s so beautiful.”
Greyshoes’ art holds a significant place in the hearts of many, transcending mere aesthetic value to become a part of the cultural and spiritual fabric of the community. He hopes to foster cultural awareness and appreciation. “I would like to see an interchange of cultural awareness…people start to understand and appreciate Native American art not just as a piece of art to be bought and sold but inspired by our ceremonies, our traditions, our history,” he explains. He envisions his sculptures as not just art pieces but as cultural ambassadors that tell stories and provoke thought.
“It’s not just a piece of art; it means something to people.”
Sculpting A Legacy
Greyshoes continues to engage with the art world through various projects. His dedication to his craft and cultural heritage remains unwavering, as he continues to inspire and connect with audiences. His works have won numerous accolades, including blue ribbons at prestigious art shows. One of his remarkable experiences involved a sculpture in Carrara marble, originally an 800-pound slab that he meticulously carved down to 300 pounds.
To aspiring artists, Greyshoes offers valuable advice: “Do not go to the art store and buy a bunch of supplies you don’t know what you’re buying. Take classes in various mediums until you find something you’re comfortable with, that you like to do, and that you’re pretty good at.” He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and exploration in finding one’s artistic path.
Greyshoes’ journey is a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance, cultural pride, and the pursuit of passion. For artists in Albuquerque and beyond, his story is a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that it’s never too late to start, and that art can be a profound vehicle for cultural expression and connection.
Find Greyshoes’ upcoming exhibitions on ABQToDo.
Art Every Day Of The Week
When you start to look, you’ll see art everywhere in Albuquerque. Use this calendar to find an arts and culture event near you. Take a friend, bring your kids, or go on your own. Become a part of the arts and culture community in Albuquerque. You’ll be glad you did.
Discover More Artists
