The Patania family’s legacy spans four generations of artistry and resilience. It began with Frank Patania Sr., born in Messina, Italy, who immigrated to the U.S. through Ellis Island. Together with his wife Aurora, he established the foundation for a century-long tradition of silversmithing excellence. Frank Patania Jr. inherited his father’s skills and creative drive, expanding the family’s reputation with deep ties to the Southwest, church commissions, and global influences gained through extensive travel. The third generation, led by Sam Patania, modernized the family’s vision, blending craftsmanship with innovation to expand its reach while preserving its values. Recognized at the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery, each of these three generations now holds a place among America’s finest artists.
Today, the fourth generation, led by Marco Patania, carries this tradition forward, honoring the past while creating timeless, contemporary designs that embody the Patania family’s enduring spirit. With a century behind them and a new generation leading the way, The Patania Family continues to build its legacy, with the same determination that brought Frank Sr. across the ocean: to build, create and inspire.
Be sure to visit Desert Artisans Gallery during the Open Studio Tour on Sunday, November 16 when Marco brings in his anvil and stamping material. He'll explain how he makes the stamping tools from steel rods by annealing the metal, carving it and hardening it back up. He will also bring in stones and mounts, allowing visitors to pick their own stone for a "custom" necklace he'll make right before their eyes. Don’t miss this opportunity.
Paying Tribute in a Artful Way
Accomplished glass artist Malu Nicolette, along with fellow artist Tracey Smith, won First Place 3D for this glass shrine titled “Paws of our Hearts” at the Dia de los Muertos exhibit at the De La Vega Gallery in October. This shrine—often called an ofrenda in Spanish—is a central and deeply meaningful part of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) traditions. It’s both a work of art and an act of remembrance, created to honor the lives of loved ones who have passed away.
Best in Digital Award from Camelback Gallery
Desert Artisan Artist Theresa Poalucci won Third Place in the Best in Medium Exhibit at the Camelback Gallery for her piece “Gentle Souls in an Arid Land.”
” My art explores the harmony between nature and the evolving technological world,” explained Theresa. “I blend organic beauty with digital innovation, using modern tools to “paint with pixels” and bring my vision to life.. Each piece begins on a digital canvas. I build compositions using photographs taken on my smartphone, and often scan in hand-drawn or painted elements. These layers form the foundation of a wholly original work—one that merges lived experience with imagination.”
“I then refine the image with digital brushwork, filters, and color enhancements until the piece “speaks” to me. That’s when I know it’s finished. The final artwork is printed on acrylic to highlight its luminosity and depth,” she continued.