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Santa Fe's Most Colorful Artist: Thomas 'Tommy' Macaione, 'El Diferente'

Santa Fe's thriving visual arts scene is a top reason to visit, with the city ranked #2 in the U.S. for art vibrancy. Its landscapes, rich history, and unique architecture have drawn artists worldwide for decades. In the Threads of Santa Fe video below, City Historian Ana Pacheco shares the captivating story of beloved local artist Thomas "Tommy" Macaione.

Santa Fe s Most Colorful Artist: Thomas Tommy Macaione, El Diferente

Tommy Macaione with one of his paintings. (Photo courtesy of Palace of the Governors Photo Archives Negative HP.2014.14.879)

Born Thomas Silvestri Macaione on November 13, 1907, in New London, Connecticut, to Italian immigrant parents, he moved to Sicily with his mother at age seven after his parents separated. There, his passion for art took root.

Returning to New London in 1922, Macaione honed his skills under Yale graduate Frank Zozzora, then studied at the Rhode Island School of Design and the Art Students League in New York. In 1952, he settled in Santa Fe, becoming a fixture in the local art community. Known for his eccentric personality and plein air painting, his easel was a common sight around town. Locals nicknamed him "El Diferente" (The Different One) and hailed him as the "patron saint of the arts."

Macaione passed away in 1992, but his vibrant works grace public and private collections, including City Hall, The Shed Restaurant, and The Santa Fe New Mexican offices. Recently, the City acquired one of his largest pieces for display in the new Santa Fe Railyard offices.

Santa Fe s Most Colorful Artist: Thomas Tommy Macaione, El Diferente

Tommy Macaione painting on a bridge over the Santa Fe River. (Photo courtesy of The Palace of the Governors Photo Archives, Negative HP.2014.14.1739)

Enhance your Santa Fe art experience with our "Top Three Santa Fe Art Walks" and explore workshops to unleash your creativity. The Santa Fe Guide offers more tips for planning your artistic adventure.

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