Santa Fe, New Mexico is known as an arts destination. The town is filled with museums and galleries. You'll find art shows on the main Plaza and at the Convention Center. But there are some art-lovers haunts that might surprise you.
The Capitol Building
Santa Fe is the capitol of the state of New Mexico. The capitol building, locally known as "The Round House," is home to an extensive collection of New Mexican art. The building, located at the corner of Paseo de Peralta and Old Santa Fe Trail will surprise you.
Santa Fe's Capitol art collection represents the history and the diversity of the state. You will see art representing the Native American, Spanish and Anglo heritage. The art extends around the rotunda, on several floors and down hallways. Even the Governor's office has selected public art. On the first floor you will see special exhibitions of art such as the one I recently enjoyed by the Book Arts Group.
The Capitol Art Collection began during the remodeling of the building in 1989-1991. 1% of the budget was set aside for art. In addition, the legislature approved a portion of the furniture budget to buy New Mexico hand-crafted furniture. And the collection has grown due to the generosity of artists and donors.
It is a great place to get a sense of the scope of New Mexico's culture and art forms.
This beautiful display of New Mexico art and history is open to the public Monday through Friday 8 am to 5:30pm and Saturdays after Memorial Day and before Labor Day.
During the summer you can take a tour of the building at 10am and 2pm by calling 505.986.4589.
La Posada de Santa Fe Hotel
Imagine a hotel filled with art, and most of it for sale at reasonable prices!
La Posada de Santa Fe is situated in a historic compound on six landscaped acres. The address is: 330 East Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501. La Posada is in historic Santa Fe, close to the Plaza, shops and restaurants. The resort complex features Fuego, a gourmet restaurant, Viga, a casual dining yet elegant bistro, and the historic Stabb House lounge where you can dine casually and enjoy music many evenings.
Sara Eyestone, artist and curator for La Posada, selects and oversees a large collection of fine art from independent artists. The art is beautifully grouped in the resort's common areas and some is featured in guest rooms and suites. All pieces are for sale at less than gallery prices. The resort attracts a large number of art enthusiasts from near and far.
On Friday evenings, Ms. Eyestone leads a tour of the art for hotel guests. The tour starts with wine and appetizers in the hotel's kitchen and will take you throughout the hotel. Often local artists join the group to explain their own pieces that are hung at La Posada. She can be contacted via the concierge at the hotel.
Santa Fe is Art
While you are visiting Santa Fe, be sure and see the art of New Mexico at La Posada de Santa Fe and at the Capitol Building. Enjoy the tours and become inspired. Santa Fe galleries host Friday evening art walks and openings. The Visitor's Bureau website lists many events for art lovers. Enjoy our Photo Slide Show of selected works from the State Capitol Building.
Comments