About Randy Chitto

Randy Chitto has cultivated a distinguished career as a clay artist since his graduation from the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe, NM. Randy's early artistic inclination became evident during his formative years in Mississippi. When he was three years old, his family was relocated to Chicago, Illinois in 1964 as part of the Indian Relocation Act of 1959. Recognizing his artistic prowess, his family provided unwavering support as he transitioned from sketching under the family porch to participating in citywide competitions and gaining admission to specialized art classes at the Chicago Art Institute and the Illinois Institute of Technology.

In 1980, Randy enrolled at IAIA. Initially focusing on painting. he ultimately discovered his passion for clay under the guidance of his first instructor, Otellie Loloma. Progressing in his studies, Randy continued to refine his skills under the mentorship of Ralph Pardington, who encouraged him to develop his unique artistic style. Randy graduated in 1983 with both 2 and 3 Dimensional Degrees in Studio Art. 

Randy's artistic journey primarily centers around the turtle, symbolizing the Choctaw's storytellers, and the bear, representing the strength and courage of the male facet of the tribe. His characters are renowned for their lively and animated expressions, reflecting his joyful artistic approach.

Currently residing in Santa Fe, NM, Randy's artistic contributions have earned him a place in numerous museum collections, including the Heard Museum in Phoenix, AZ, The Denver Art Museum, and The National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC. Over the course of his prolific career, Randy has received several awards, including the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Fellowship and the Dubin Fellowship at The School of American Research.

His commitment to the arts extends beyond his personal achievements, as he has served on the boards of directors of various non-profit organizations and is presently a board member of SWAIA. Furthermore, Randy and his wife Jackie are the founders of the Santa Fe Indian Center, now known as the Santa Fe Indigenous Center, dedicated to assisting Native individuals and families residing in Santa Fe. 

Randy has been married to Jackie Carpio for 40 years, whom he met in Mrs. Loloma's clay class. The couple has two accomplished sons, Hollis, an acclaimed beadworker, and Dillon, a distinguished playwright.