“Chief James Garfield Velarde” Original Painting
“Chief James Garfield Velarde” Apache Series
8” by 10”
Mixed media on stretched canvas canvas with gold floating frame
Original signed painting by Sonny and Lisa Moeckel
Chief Garfield Velarde (Sonny’s great grandfather) was a leader of the Jicarilla Apache Nation. He took the name from Chief James Garfield after receiving a peace medal from President Garfield. He later adopted the surname “Velarde”. He is also known for his role in promoting education in his community.
"He is the beginning of every brushstroke I make."
Chief James Garfield Velarde was my great-grandfather - a man of dignity, diplomacy, and deep cultural presence. As a respected interpreter and representative of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, he stood at the intersection of two worlds, translating not only language but meaning. His efforts helped preserve our people's voice during a time of immense political pressure and change.
This portrait honors more than bloodline - it honors legacy. Velarde's calm strength, his role in safeguarding our traditions, and his quiet leadership continue to guide me as an artist. He reminds me that painting is not simply image-making - it is storykeeping.
With every line, I ask: What did he carry? What did he protect? This is my offering to him - and to the memory that still shape us.
“Chief James Garfield Velarde” Apache Series
8” by 10”
Mixed media on stretched canvas canvas with gold floating frame
Original signed painting by Sonny and Lisa Moeckel
Chief Garfield Velarde (Sonny’s great grandfather) was a leader of the Jicarilla Apache Nation. He took the name from Chief James Garfield after receiving a peace medal from President Garfield. He later adopted the surname “Velarde”. He is also known for his role in promoting education in his community.
"He is the beginning of every brushstroke I make."
Chief James Garfield Velarde was my great-grandfather - a man of dignity, diplomacy, and deep cultural presence. As a respected interpreter and representative of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, he stood at the intersection of two worlds, translating not only language but meaning. His efforts helped preserve our people's voice during a time of immense political pressure and change.
This portrait honors more than bloodline - it honors legacy. Velarde's calm strength, his role in safeguarding our traditions, and his quiet leadership continue to guide me as an artist. He reminds me that painting is not simply image-making - it is storykeeping.
With every line, I ask: What did he carry? What did he protect? This is my offering to him - and to the memory that still shape us.
“Chief James Garfield Velarde” Apache Series
8” by 10”
Mixed media on stretched canvas canvas with gold floating frame
Original signed painting by Sonny and Lisa Moeckel
Chief Garfield Velarde (Sonny’s great grandfather) was a leader of the Jicarilla Apache Nation. He took the name from Chief James Garfield after receiving a peace medal from President Garfield. He later adopted the surname “Velarde”. He is also known for his role in promoting education in his community.
"He is the beginning of every brushstroke I make."
Chief James Garfield Velarde was my great-grandfather - a man of dignity, diplomacy, and deep cultural presence. As a respected interpreter and representative of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, he stood at the intersection of two worlds, translating not only language but meaning. His efforts helped preserve our people's voice during a time of immense political pressure and change.
This portrait honors more than bloodline - it honors legacy. Velarde's calm strength, his role in safeguarding our traditions, and his quiet leadership continue to guide me as an artist. He reminds me that painting is not simply image-making - it is storykeeping.
With every line, I ask: What did he carry? What did he protect? This is my offering to him - and to the memory that still shape us.