Hakim Bellamy: A Voice for Albuquerque

Hakim Bellamy, Albuquerque’s first Poet Laureate (2012-2014), is a celebrated writer, educator, and community leader whose work resonates far beyond the page. A three-time collegiate Poetry Slam Champion, Bellamy’s poetry has been published in unexpected places—from the walls of the Albuquerque Convention Center to city buses and libraries. His powerful voice has earned him national recognition, including a W. K. Kellogg Foundation Fellowship, the Kennedy Center’s Citizen Artist Fellowship, and the Tillie Olsen Award for Creative Writing.

In addition to his writing, Bellamy is a dedicated community organizer, youth advocate, and educator. He has led workshops in schools, jails, and community centers, using poetry to inspire and empower the next generation. As Deputy Director of the City of Albuquerque’s Department of Arts & Culture from 2018 to 2022, he helped elevate the city’s creative sector. Today, Bellamy continues to shape Albuquerque’s cultural landscape while pursuing law school at UNM, blending his artistry with advocacy.

Through his poetry, teaching, and leadership, Hakim Bellamy embodies the authentic spirit of Albuquerque—creative, compassionate, and committed to community.

Find upcoming events featuring Hakim on ABQToDo.

Artistry in Focus: Thomas Christopher Haag

Step inside the creative world of Albuquerque artist Thomas Christopher Haag as he reflects on meditation, travel, spirituality, and the unconventional path that led him to painting. In this conversation, Thomas shares how intuition, community, found materials, and the New Mexico landscape continue to shape his work, murals, and creative practice.

May 22, 2026
Contemporary, Meditation, Muralist, Painter

Artistry in Focus: Jesse Littlebird

Meet Albuquerque artist Jesse Littlebird. His paintings reflect Indigenous history, land connection, and contemporary storytelling, while supporting a thriving local art community.

November 7, 2025
Contemporary, Indigenous, Painter, Painting

Artistry in Focus: Julianna Kirwin

Discover the story of Albuquerque printmaker Julianna Kirwin, whose art blends Polish heritage, New Mexican landscapes, and collaborative community printmaking. Explore her creative journey, artistic process, and the cultural influences that shape her work.

October 6, 2025
Contemporary, Multigenerational, Printmaker, Printmaking

Artistry in Focus: Akilah Martinez

Akilah Martinez, known as Glittering World Girl, is a Navajo artist and creative technologist using XR, storytelling, and innovation to preserve Diné language and culture. Her immersive projects connect tradition with technology, inspiring community and imagining Indigenous futures.

September 4, 2025
Augmented Reality, Indigenous, New Media, Technology, XR

Artistry in Focus: Rob Vanderslice

Discover the story of Rob Vanderslice, an award-winning lowrider artist from Albuquerque, New Mexico. From custom paintwork and youth mentorship to a family-run business and national teaching tours, Rob is redefining lowrider culture and inspiring the next generation of artists.

July 7, 2025
Chicano, Community, Lowrider, Paint

Artistry in Focus: Allen Aragon

Discover the vibrant jewelry and fine art of Allen Aragon, a Native American artist based in New Mexico. Known for his intricate inlay work and bold, contemporary interpretations of traditional designs, Aragon creates one-of-a-kind pieces that honor his Diné heritage. Explore his handcrafted concho belts, bolo ties, and mixed-media works that blend silver, turquoise, and colorful geometric patterns. Visit the Allen Aragon Gallery in Albuquerque or shop select pieces online.

June 2, 2025
Contemporary, Digital Artwork, Jewelry, Native Art, Pottery

Art Every Day Of The Week

When you start to look, you’ll see art everywhere in Albuquerque. Use this calendar to find an arts and culture event near you. Take a friend, bring your kids, or go on your own. Become a part of the arts and culture community in Albuquerque. You’ll be glad you did.

Tagged Poet, Writer