The Craft: Rooted in Tradition
Born and raised in the high-desert landscapes of Wagon Mound, NM, Rudy Martinez carries the traditional spirit of Mora County in every piece he creates. As an Air Force veteran, Rudy brings discipline and meticulous attention to detail to his craft, transforming resilient desert materials into objects of beauty and spiritual significance.
Rudy is proudly supported by his loving wife, Nancy Martinez. Together, they ensure that every cholla skeleton is carefully selected, prepared, and finished, embodying as shared commitment to quality and their deep connection to the New Mexican land and community.
The Material: Cholla Transformed
Rudy’s unique medium is the skeleton of the cholla cactus, gathered sustainably from the land around his home in Northern New Mexico. The process is one of patience and reverence: the dried cholla is cleaned, stabilized, and meticulously hand-finished to reveal its porous, intricate structure. This natural, rugged material is then transformed into sacred items, including functional walking canes and traditional crosses.
The Vision: Distinctly New Mexican
Each creation is rooted in tradition, focusing on the timeless iconography of New Mexican folk art. From the careful curve of a walking cane to the balance of a simple cross, Rudy’s work is distinctly New Mexican—a heartfelt homage to the culture, faith, and desert resilience of the region he calls home.
The Collection: Artistry in Cholla
Explore the full range of Rudy Martinez’s handcrafted art below. Every item, from the sturdy walking canes to the traditional devotional crosses, is meticulously crafted from sustainably sourced cholla cactus gathered in the Mora County region. Witness the intricate beauty of the cholla’s natural structure and the skill of a veteran artisan as this resilient desert material is transformed into sacred items—each piece deeply rooted in tradition and carrying the authentic soul of Northern New Mexico.
Connect with Rudy
Whether you are looking for a unique gift or a devotional piece for your home, Rudy creates work built to last.
Do you have questions?
Rudy welcomes all inquiries about available items.
Please use this form to connect with him.