Authentically Albuquerque

“My work is influenced by the cultural traditions and events that are unique to Albuquerque, as well as my upbringing in Northern New Mexico. I grew up surrounded by a variety of cultures, and I attribute my ability to adapt and interact with almost anyone to that diverse childhood environment.”

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Meet Jessica Roybal, a talented photographer capturing the essence of Albuquerque’s vibrant streets and the cultural tapestry that defines our city.

Initially drawn to photography through her studies in architecture, Jessica’s work has evolved into a profound exploration of light, shadow, and the unique forms that populate the streets of Albuquerque. Jessica’s unexpected journey into photography has opened doors to exhibitions across the country, allowing her to connect with audiences far and wide, and transform her simple documentation of architectural details into a passionate artistic pursuit that celebrates Albuquerque’s diverse culture and community.

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Streetscape Dreams

Jessica’s artistic journey began unexpectedly while she was studying architecture at the University of New Mexico. Initially, she used photography to document architectural details, materials, and study models. As she expanded her focus to include streetscapes, buildings, and vintage signs, she began sharing her work on social media. This exposure opened doors, allowing her to showcase her photography in exhibitions across the country and connect with a broader audience, transforming a simple documentation practice into a passionate artistic pursuit.

Her process is deeply rooted in her upbringing; both of Jessica’s parents were film photographers, and she grew up with a camera in hand. Initially dabbling in film photography as a teenager, Jessica transitioned to digital photography, often using her iPhone to discreetly capture moments in the streets. As her skills developed, she moved to a professional camera, delving deeper into the lowrider car community. For Jessica, the streets are her studio, with Route 66 serving as her canvas. The interactions and relationships she’s built within the lowrider community have transformed her approach from observation to personal engagement with car owners and their families.
Photo taken by Jessica Roybal. A black-and-white photo of a 1964 Chevy Impala set against the backdrop of a popular mural by Larry Bob Phillips in Albuquerque featuring large, bold graphics and icons representative of southwestern scenery.
Photo taken by Jessica Roybal. A black-and-white photo of Route 66 streetscape in Albuquerque, with vintage signage and architectural shadows. Two pedestrians are seen walking by, one carrying an umbrella, against the empty backdrop of the street and old buildings.
Photo taken by Jessica Roybal. A black-and-white photo of a family riding in a classic car down Central Avenue, Route 66 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on a Sunday afternoon. The background shows historic buildings of downtown and a Central Avenue street sign.

Cruising for Inspiration

Jessica’s favorite place to create is downtown Albuquerque on Sunday evenings, where she finds inspiration in the “evening light hues of oranges and purples, as classic cars head east and west, adding to the magic of our rolling museum on Route 66.” This vibrant display of classic cars is a testament to Albuquerque’s cultural heritage, offering endless opportunities for Jessica’s lens.

“My work is influenced by the cultural traditions and events that are unique to Albuquerque, as well as my upbringing in Northern New Mexico,” Jessica reflects. “I grew up surrounded by a variety of cultures, and I attribute my ability to adapt and interact with almost anyone to that diverse childhood environment.” Her dedication has led to her work being featured in prominent local collections, including the Albuquerque Museum and the Bernalillo County Arts archives. You can also acquire Jessica’s merchandise at the Lapis Room Gallery in Old Town, Albuquerque.


Looking forward, Jessica envisions more collaborative projects between local artists and the city, such as art installations in vacant storefronts to revitalize urban spaces. She sees the potential for art to transform communities, turning areas like Downtown, Nob Hill, and Barelas into vibrant hubs that celebrate Albuquerque’s creative diversity.

Photo taken by Jessica Roybal. A color photo of a 1963 convertible Chevy Impala next to the historic El Camino Motor Hotel sign. The sign, brightly colored with neon lights, advertises features like color TV and single rooms. The car sits in front of a traditional Southwestern-style building with adobe walls, against a backdrop of a partly cloudy sky and trees.
Photo taken by Jessica Roybal. A color photo of a 1960 convertible Chevy Impala crusing down Central Avenue, Route 66, during sunset. The silver car is classically restored to its original stock with a continental kit mounted at the rear with vintage New Mexico license plates. In the background, there are iconic Albuquerque buildings, trees, and parked cars, evoking a peaceful scene in an urban area.

“Every photograph I take is a chance to document our history, celebrate our culture, and inspire others to see the world differently.”

Changing Lanes & Shifting Perspectives

Through her photography, Jessica hopes to challenge stereotypes and inspire a deeper appreciation for Albuquerque’s cultural richness. “I hope that my work helps people see the beauty in our city and culture—the family values, the dedication, and the artistry behind everything we do.” Jessica’s ongoing presence on social media allows her to connect with her audience on a personal level, sharing not just her art but the stories and connections that fuel it, “Being part of the community rather than just an observer has completely transformed my perspective and inspired me to keep sharing our stories.”

Jessica’s journey is a testament to the power of community and perseverance. From cruising with the lowrider community to documenting intimate moments on the streets, her work captures the heartbeat of Albuquerque. As she continues to photograph and contribute to her ever-growing archive, Jessica remains open to new opportunities, including commissions and international exhibitions.

For aspiring artists in Albuquerque, Jessica’s advice is simple yet profound: “Keep doing you! Take criticisms with a grain of salt, and remember that times change and processes evolve. Collaboration is key; you’ll grow and learn more from other artists and evolve within the community.”

Catch upcoming exhibitions featuring Jessica on ABQToDo.

Acknowledgments

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.

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Artistry in Focus: Rob Vanderslice

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Artistry in Focus: Allen Aragon

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