ROSETA SANTIAGO

About this artist

Roseta Santiago lives and works as a painter in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her artistic philosophy draws inspiration from the Asian concept of “becoming new,” an intellectual process that has guided her throughout her life and career. Reflecting on her extensive experiences, Roseta recognizes the diverse paths she has traversed, always maintaining optimism about the outcomes.
Her professional journey is marked by a variety of roles. She managed an employment agency in Washington, DC, before transitioning into design-focused careers that included developing signage and exhibits, starting a graphic design company, and managing advertising for themed restaurants. Her expertise eventually led her to operate an advertising and promotion agency, which evolved into a design/build career. Later, Roseta was recruited to paint life-sized wildlife murals for 23 Bass Pro stores in 16 states, earning her the nickname “Paintslinger” in New Mexico. These varied experiences laid the foundation for her current and final career as a painter.
Roseta was born and raised in the Washington, DC area as the eldest of five siblings. Her father, a US Navy veteran, served as a chef on the USS Missouri and at Blair House for President Harry Truman. He was of Spanish and Filipino descent, born in the Philippine Islands. Roseta’s mother, of Irish, German, and Polish heritage, grew up in Pennsylvania, her family having fled Europe due to their ancestry. This rich and multifaceted heritage has fueled Roseta’s curiosity and fascination with the mystery, illusion, and unknown elements that often inspire her art. Her determination and drive are attributes she credits to her father, who supported his large family with hard work despite having only a third-grade education.
Roseta’s personal life has further enriched her experiences. Her son, Chris, born in 1967, grew up alongside her during the socially dynamic sixties and seventies, deepening her perspective on life. These rich experiences and her steadfast approach have contributed to her artistic vision and practice.
Roseta sees herself as an eternal optimist, always willing to adapt, move forward, and remain positive. She embraces discovery—particularly the exploration of indigenous peoples of all races—as a way of learning more about herself and the world. Through her work, Roseta aims to convey the stories and mysteries that fuel her passion for painting, firmly believing that her purpose lies in bringing these subjects to life.