Institute for Latino Studies Crucifix
Wood carving runs in the Barela family. Patrocino Barela, who was originally from Arizona but settled in New Mexico, is known as one of New Mexico’s most famous woodcarvers. He carved sculptures called bultos, or religious figures, at the beginning of his career. Later, he began to carve other figures that he felt expressed his everyday experiences and feelings. His eldest grandson, Carlos Barela, carved this crucifixion, Jesús Crucificado, in 2001.
Carlos Barela carved this 96” high by 56” wide crucifix out of a single piece of juniper/cedar. The cross has a traditional appearance, with Christ wearing a crown of thorns and a perizoma. Christ’s sunken face sits directly below the INRI titulus. The body appears smooth and it is a lighter wood color than the cross itself.
Marianne O’Shaughnessy donated this crucifix to the University on February 8, 2012, in memory of her late husband, Michael O’Shaughnessy ’63. The crucifix was a gift to the Institute for Latino Studies, where Mr. O’Shaughnessy served as one of the founding members of the ILS Advisory Council. He was a great friend to the Institute since its inception.
This crucifix can be found at the north entrance of the Julian Samora Scholars Lounge in 315 Bond Hall, the home of the Insitute for Latino Studies.
