Dine at Bishop's Lodge

Kenneth Johnson is a contemporary Muscogee/Seminole jeweler and bronze sculptor living in Santa Fe. He transforms copper, silver, gold, platinum, and palladium into wearable art in his downtown Santa Fe studio. In July, as part of our Taste of Auberge series, Kenneth and Chef Pablo Peñalosa will collaborate to share a creative interpretation of two artful forms: food and art. We recently caught up with Kenneth to learn more about his work and get a sneak peek at what he and Chef Pablo are ‘cooking up’ for this very special event.

Imagine breathing in the intense aroma of bitter dark chocolate, spices, nuts, and chilis. It’s a heady mix, intoxicating in its richness and complexity. But it’s not a chocolate bar or truffle that’s before you, but a drinking elixir served in a small blue-and-white cup that’s been hand-painted in Oaxaca, Mexico.

I’ve created custom ceramics under the Whiskey and Clay line for restaurants in Marfa, Texas to Beverly Hills. But SkyFire at Bishop’s Lodge is the first restaurant in Santa Fe for which I’ve crafted unique pieces. Drawn to Santa Fe by its vibrant arts scene, proximity to nature, and slower pace of life, I moved here a few years ago—so it’s a huge honor to already be a part of such a treasured Santa Fe landmark. (Local friends have shared stories of horseback riding and cherished family holidays at the Lodge, and I hope to create my own memories, too, when it reopens.)