A Lobby That’s Not Just a Lobby...

When one strolls through the front doors of the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center, home of the Artesia Arts Council, the impression might be that it’s just like any other fine arts lobby…dark stone floors, mood lighting, places to sit and relax, and the wooden doors that provide entry to our auditorium where many a performer has graced the stage. Yet, it’s so much more. The lobby also operates as our gallery space, where we can proudly display and present artwork and fine crafts created by SE New Mexico artisans via our wire and hook hanging system, our tables, pedestals, and easels to showcase people’s artistic handiwork. We pride ourselves on bringing in a variety of artists into our small community for people to appreciate — everything from ornate horseshoe and old rope artwork to digitally rendered abstracts to fantastically ornate cow heads and exquisite textile pieces.

The lobby/gallery of the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center also represents the space where entries in our fine arts competitions are displayed. We are retooling our contests, both the Dave Boneau Juried Photography Show and our Fall Members Only Art Show, to be more inclusive to the public. We will also be continuing our Pop Up Art Contest Series in the immediate future.

In addition, Artesia Arts Council partners with Mainstreet Artesia to offer artists more time to exhibit their works. As a new artist comes in every month, the previous month’s featured artwork will be transported down to the 510 gallery to display for another month. As such, artists chosen by Artesia Arts Council for our Artist of the Month program will display for two months instead of just one. Not only does this provide the opportunity for artists to display and possibly sell their works, it also encourages residents and visitors in Artesia two opportunities to view an array of artwork and visit our downtown area. If you are an artist who would like to showcase your talents, we would love to see your work!