Shidoni Founder Tommy Hicks and his family came to Santa Fe in 1971 from Amarillo, Texas and joined a group of artists that wanted to create an art community in Tesuque. Hicks bought Shidoni's original buildings and acreage. The first bronze pours took place in an old chicken coop near the river. Thirty years later, Shidoni has taken its place in the small circle of internationally known foundries. The 14,000 square foot facility pours 10,000 pounds of bronze per month, with a single pour capacity of 1,100 pounds and as much as 700 pounds into a single ceramic shell. Shidoni is known throughout the world for their expertise in monumental casting. The Shidoni Arts Gallery is open to the public at no charge; call for hours.