AWAKENING
NM Museum of Art reopens to public with new exhibits
For more than a century, the New Mexico Museum of Art has showcased some of the most dynamic art seen in the state. On Feb. 20, the museum became the latest state-run entity to open to the public.
The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs says it plans to open the museums one at a time.
This was to ensure that all COVID -safe practices and public health measures are in place to protect visitors.
“Some of the museums took extra time to put up new exhibits,” says Daniel Zillmann, DCA spokesman.
Current exhibitions include “Alcove 20/20 #4,” a series featuring five, small, one-person exhibitions by contemporary artists working in New Mexico. The series highlights the wealth of artistic talent across the state.
“Word Play” is an exhibition of more than 40 works of art in a variety of mediums and features images by artists who incorporate letters, words, and phrases into their visual creations.
Zillmann says visitors can also take a look at the work of notable artist William Shuster in “A Fiery Light: Will Shuster’s New Mexico.” The exhibition celebrates the centennial of Shuster’s arrival in the Southwest. It highlights the artistic legacy he developed in Santa Fe and elsewhere throughout the state and emphasizes the significant artistic relationships he forged here.
Shuster, a celebrated artist in his own right, is the mastermind behind Zozobra.
The museum is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays and is closed Mondays.
According to the DCA, a maximum of 75 people at a time will be allowed inside, to keep in line with current health orders. It says reduced occupancy might result in a wait to gain entry. Visitors are required to wear masks.
The museum gift shop remains closed for in-person shopping, although customers can find this and other Museum of New Mexico Foundation shops online at shopmuseum.org.
Performance spaces and theaters, libraries, and collection areas remain closed.
The public will not have access to coat checks, lockers or backpack/purse storage, nor the use of rental equipment such as headsets, strollers and portable speakers, unless required for ADA accessibility.
Public programs, special events and volunteer/docent activities will continue in virtual formats only.