Daniel Luna, Jr., now in his seventies, is one of the most prominent artists of our city. This piece is representative of his work with vibrant colors, black outlines to add credence and a mythic quality. He has been called a regional mythologist – painting realities of his community with a surreal quality. As here, he often honors the beauty and strength of women in unique, crowded compositions.

This section is one of a three-part mural hung at the Tepeyac Community Health Center in north Denver. It tells the role of women in a variety of community commitments from building power lines; to caring for the young and hurt; to marshalling water resources and growing food. Education, which was a high value in Daniel Jr.’s early life, is represented here also.

The New York Times has just offered us a challenge to look at a piece of art for 10 minutes.

We are asked to look, really look. Truthfully, 10 minutes may not be long enough to really see Daniel Luna, Jr’s artwork, but it is a start to understanding what he might be trying to share.

Let’s try it! Let’s try it and pray to see in those minutes through loving, fresh eyes as we stop the chattering critic that loves to tear down the inspirations of others. May we instead set our sights on the wonder of this Colorado artist living a life close-by in distance but miles away in awareness.

We give God thanks for Daniel Luna, Jr. and the stories of his hand and brush.

In gratitude, faith and hope,