Anita Castro Downing is an artist well known for her equine and canine portraits. She also hand sculpts and paints paper bowls, some inset with stone cabochons and then trimmed with Turquoise and stones making them quite unique and beautiful. Her gemstone, silver, and semi-precious jewelry is very striking, some pieces being somewhat modern while still having a strong influence of traditional native style.

My hand sculpted paper bowl "Caballos de Oro" (Horses of Gold) won the 3 dimensional award at the Culture Without Border Art Show in Kansas City, Missouri. My hand sculpted paper buffalo bowl, "the Gathering" was also accepted to be in the show."

2007 Donations
Habitat for Humanity in San Benito County, California Cattlemen for Cancer in Bastrop, Texas to benefit M. D. Anderson's Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research

2008 Donations
Buckaroo Ball in Santa Fe, New Mexico to benefit Programs for Children at Risk Cattlemen for Cancer in Bastrop, Texas

Artist Statement
"Many people comment about how beautiful my necklaces are and how well they are finished. When designing my jewelry, I always make sure each necklace looks beautiful from every angle, creating a complete picture."

"When designing my jewelry, I feel a strong influence from my Mexican and American Indian heritage. The spirit of the stones guide my designs, the necklace not being complete until the spirit of it feels right."

"My art, whether a portrait, sculpted bowl, or piece of jewelry is influenced by my love of and strong bond with nature. I cherish my time with my wonderful horses and dogs, and the special time observing the abundant wildlife that lives on or visits our property. This love of and bond with nature is why my husband and I live in the countryside enjoying all the beauty the land offers us everyday."

"Please enjoy viewing the website!"