Searching for justice: Documentary centered on life of Native artist Gomeo Bobelu

Gomeo Bobelu was a silversmith, Air Force veteran, actor, graphic artist, filmmaker, social justice advocate and tribal elder.

The Santa Fe resident worked every day to make a difference until his death in 2022.

Filmmaker Jaima Chevalier is at the helm of the documentary, with AJ Goldman serving as associate producer.

The documentary, “Gomeo Bobelu,” will premiere at the Santa Fe International Film Festival at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22, at the New Mexico History Museum.

Bobelu was a beloved figure in many circles in Santa Fe and beyond, but neither his deep ties to his place of emergence nor his renown in the art world could save him from a tragic and premature demise.

Told mostly in his own words, the film is an account of Bobelu’s life story, presented as he wanted it to be told, curated against a vast trove of footage from other sources, woven into a tapestry that showcases the extraordinary talents that gave him prominence in the art world. Goldman says the film details how he battled discrimination and adversity throughout his life, and how he built legacies not only in the art world but in the fields of social justice and human rights as well.

“From humble beginnings in Zuni to citizenship across the globe through his art and travels, Gomeo’s story demonstrates that despite the profound disparities between the glitzy Santa Fe art world and his ancient village (“The Seven Cities of Gold,”) the lessons are the same: that Indigenous lives matter, that art heals, and that there is no artistic integrity without truth and justice,” Goldman says.

Searching for justice: Documentary centered on life of Native artist Gomeo Bobelu

Goldman says his connection with Bobelu began in 2015 and quickly evolved into a friendship like spirited brothers.

Bobelu would bless Goldman before he embarked on conferences or performances.

He also served as inspiration for Goldman to remain sober and was available to call any hour of the day.

“(He helped) with challenges in life and about my self-identity,” Goldman says. “(Gomeo) said, ‘Remain on your path to pursue your dreams; we are the cosmic healers.’ Tragically, we lost Gomeo to a crime, and justice has not been taken for his murder.”