Black Mesa is one of New Mexico’s most inspirational landscapes. It is located on land belonging to the San Ildefonso Pueblo reservation and is sacred to the San Ildefonso people. The Capillita de La Sagrada Familia sits at the base of the mesa. The little chapel was constructed of hand made adobes by Jose and Ceilia Vigil between 1921 and 1924. By 1958 the Capillita had fallen into disrepair and was abandoned. However, in 1990 it was deemed worthy of preservation, stabilized and rededicated in 1992.
Black Mesa, situated between Santa Fe and Espanola, is only a short distance away for me. I have been able to photographer the mesa at many times of the day and during different seasons. The allure of obtaining just the perfect cloud formation and lighting situation motivates me to return again and again to this special place.
