The Creative Compass | May 2024

Experience Albuquerque's vibrant art scene at Gallery One, showcasing community exhibitions and local artists' works. Discover more events happening in May you don't want to miss!

Spotlight On: Gallery One

Found on the first floor of City Hall, Gallery One is a place for community art exhibitions and work created by Albuquerque artists. The gallery is typically open weekdays from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. and entrance is free! The Employee Art Exhibit, which featured artwork by 71 City employees representing every City department, has concluded. The next show, starting May 3, is titled Internet of Things (IoT): Art and Technology.

1 Civic Plaza NW, Suite 1400
GalleryOne@cabq.gov
Website

With Thanks

Back in October, Albuquerque said goodbye to one of our city’s most iconic galleries, Sumner & Dene. An art seller for nearly 45 years, owner Roy Johnson ran the gallery, which was on Central between 5th and 6th, for decades before deciding it was time to retire. Among the bounty of local talent featured at the gallery, we could find the work of artists such as Carol Carpenter, Phil Hulebak, Angus Macpherson, and Bill Tondreau. Many of these artists are now represented at Weems Gallery, through their own websites, or otherwise; Macpherson recently returned to his own space, MoRo Gallery (806 Mountain Road NW), which is currently open by appointment. Though we miss Johnson’s friendly and masterfully knowledgeable demeanor—and being greeted at the door by Johnson’s sweet dog Mazie—we celebrate all that Johnson offered in the art world and wish him and everyone associated with Sumner & Dene enduring success and joy.

5 Things To Do in May

Reflective Presence: The Art of Jesse Littlebird & Jonathan Loretto

Through June 23, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to see the work of these two local artists (you can also purchase their art on the IPCC website). Known as a painter, writer, and film director, Jesse Littlebird represents the Kewa and Laguna Pueblos. Jonathan Loretto, of Cochiti and Jemez Pueblos, is a sculptor and jewelry designer. As the exhibition website states, “Rooted in storytelling, Littlebird and Loretto’s artworks offer layered perspectives that transport viewers into new landscapes of personas, memories, and places of being. These artists locate their work in symbols, movement, narratives, and depth rooted in Pueblo understandings—all to give viewers a nuanced experience of traveling through artistic portals.”

Listen to El Faro Youth Chorus Perform at FUSION

El Faro Youth Chorus presents its third annual spring concert at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 11. The concert is free and will be held at FUSION art space. EFYC, conducted by Gabrielle Dietrich, is part of the non-profit organization Coro Lux and engages in trauma-informed practices to empower youth aged 7–18. The group will perform songs in a range of styles on the theme of love: “love of family, love of our planet, and love of one another.”

Sip and Sway at Lapis Room

Buy tickets for the SIP FLOR event happening on Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Lapis Room in Old Town. Guests 21 and older can view the art featured at the gallery (artists showcased at Lapis include locals Jodie Herrera, Eric Romero, David Santiago, and Natalie Voelker) while enjoying live music from Lara Manzanares, sampling bites from Honey Bee Kitchen, and watching an artist demo by Thomas Christopher Haag.

Stretch Your Wings and Make a Print

Visit Valle del Oro National Wildlife Refuge on 2nd Street (just south of Rio Bravo) for this free, family-friendly Birds are Real 4.0 event. On Saturday, May 25, starting at 8 a.m., go birdwatching with guides from the park before creating your own bird-themed linoleum print. Find more info and register at the Valle del Oro website.

Dance to the Surf Lords

As part of the Spring Music Series on Plaza Don Luis in Old Town, local rock beach band Surf Lords will perform 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 16. Known for their lively original songs, Surf Lords also cover classics by The Ventures, Dick Dale, and more. Free!

A vibrant evening scene at a hot air balloon festival, with colorful balloons glowing against a twilight sky above a lively crowd gathered around dining tables and illuminated tents. Text reads, "Creative Compass October 2026."

The Creative Compass | October 2026

Discover things to do in Albuquerque this October, from Balloon Fiesta and fall festivals to arts, live performances, Halloween events, film, markets, and more.

The Creative Compass | September 2026

Discover Albuquerque’s best arts and culture events this September, from the New Mexico State Fair and new theater productions to poetry, folk music, and more.

The Creative Compass | August 2026

Discover Albuquerque’s best arts and culture events this August, from classes at the Albuquerque Museum and the NM Glass Arts Festival to new theatre productions, Route 66 lectures, and the In Rhythm Fest.

The Creative Compass | July 2026

Discover Albuquerque’s best arts and culture events this July, from Route 66 Summerfest and live music to glass art, family festivals, and World Cup watch parties.

The Creative Compass | June 2026

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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.

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.

Authentically Albuquerque