The New Mexico Watercolor Society (NMWS) Fall/Winter 2026 Juried Exhibition
The New Mexico Watercolor Society (NMWS) Fall/Winter 2026 Juried Exhibition is being held at the Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery from January 2 - February 27, 2026. The Exhibit, entitled “Transitions & Transformations” features art from 34 artists who are members of NMWS statewide.
Artists throughout history have used their art to depict—and inspire us to see and feel—dramatic changes of their time. In our current times, we are surrounded by changes that often bring about transitions and sometimes dramatic transformations
to ourselves and our communities, environment, cities and countryside, as well as to our social and political lives. For this exhibit, NMWS artists were challenged to boldly interpret a variety of the transitional and transformational subject matters
that have affected them deeply. The exhibit includes 48 paintings with a wide range of styles and subject matter that will engage the viewer in thinking about transitions and transformations in their own lives.
The juror selecting paintings to be included in this exhibit was Janet Rogers, a professional artist for more than 45 years who holds signature status in the American Watercolor Society (AWS), Transparent Watercolor Society of America (TWSA), and the Florida Watercolor Society (FWS) and has won numerous awards for her sensitive paintings of people and flowers. Her career has included exhibitions with the Florida Watercolor Society, American Watercolor Society, Transparent Watercolor Society, and at Walt Disney World, Winter Park, Kanuga, Springmaid, and other venues. She also teaches numerous art workshops both nationally and internationally.
The judge selecting awards placement for this exhibit was Karen Conley, President of Artforms Artists Association of New Mexico. Karen Conley is a multi-media artist living in southern New Mexico, president of ArtForms, and a frequent volunteer in the Mesilla Valley art community.
The New Mexico Watercolor Society was founded in 1969 and has more than 300 members statewide, including more than 100 members in southern New Mexico. The Southern Chapter of the NMWS, founded in 2001, provides many services to its members and the local community. Monthly meetings are held September through May, the second Sunday of the month, at 2 pm in the Las Cruces Village activity room.
Meetings provide an opportunity to network with fellow artists, view watercolor demonstrations, and visit with guest artists. The meetings are free and open to the public. The organization also sponsors workshops, juried and non- juried exhibitions, paint-outs, and a library of watercolor DVD’. The NMWS-SC supports a student awards program to encourage young artists to explore painting with water media such as watercolor, gouache, egg tempura, casein, watercolor pencils and crayons, water-soluble pigmented inks and fluid acrylics. The Southern Chapter serves southern counties of NM and the El Paso, TX area. Learn more about the NMWS and the Southern Chapter at http://nmwatercolorsociety.org
Book Bedazzling Party
The Book Bedazzling Party is a gentle, joy-filled community care practice—an invitation to gather, create, and be together without pressure or performance. We’ll decorate books using gems, markers, collage, and other playful materials, transforming something ordinary into something personal and meaningful. Participants are welcome to bring a book they’d like to transform or choose a pre-owned book provided by us. This gathering is about slowing down, nurturing connection, and remembering that creativity can be a way we care for ourselves and one another. No artistic experience needed—just a willingness to show up, make something with your hands, and leave a little more connected than when you arrived.
Heavy snacks and drinks will be provided! Get Your Tickets here: https://shop.beyonk.com/g7tj0loj/experiences/limnjjp6
NOVEMBER: Open Mic Night!
🎤✨ Join us for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE monthly Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there! Click to learn more!
Celia Farran Concert: Kickstarting our 54th Las Cruces Renaissance Arts Faire
A FUN FRIDAY NIGHT: We are kickstarting our 54th Renaissance Arts Faire with a family friendly concert featuring Celia Farran at the Young Park Main Stage! FREE Event - No RSVP/Tickets.
OCTOBER: Open Mic Night!
🎤✨ Join us for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE monthly Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there! Click to learn more!
ARTE Lifelong Learning: Bruce Springsteen Lecture
DA Arts' members are invited to enjoy the Springsteen classes taught by Jim Smith on the Monday afternoons as part of the Fall Semester Courses brought to you by ARTE Lifelong learning. Click to learn more and register today!
Reina Rosa’s Royal Bilingual Story Hour
Step into the royal court with Reina Rosa La Cantacuentos for a vibrant bilingual storytime series led by storyteller Jade Citrón Báez. Families will enjoy cuentos from Latin America and Spain, with songs, dancing, and playful audience participation. Designed for children birth through 8 (but fun for all ages), this interactive program celebrates culture, imagination, and the joy of bilingual storytelling.
Saturdays, October 11th, 18th, 25th, 2025 from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM. NO RSVP - Free community event!
Where? Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery, 230 S. Water St. Las Cruces, NM. Free community event! Click to learn more!
Renaissance Arts Faire: Coat of Arms Contest
Looking for a fun project with your kids or students? Design your very own Coat of Arms and show us what makes you YOU! Every shield will be displayed at this year’s Renaissance Arts Faire Exhibition of Shields (Nov. 8–9 at Young Park, Las Cruces). Click to learn more!
SEPTEMBER: Open Mic Night!
🎤✨ Join us for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE monthly Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there!
Suppose Trees Could Talk Book Launch
Suppose Trees Could Talk invites readers to imagine the wisdom of nature’s quiet voices. Called “poetic” and “eye-opening,” this book blends memory, imagination, and storytelling. Don’t miss your chance!
Van Delized — Opening Reception
Join us Friday, August 15, 6–8 PM for the opening reception of Van Delized, the debut exhibition of Las Cruces artist Nate Van Del, who transforms thrift-store paintings with 90s and 2000s pop culture icons like Snoopy, LEGO figures, and Family Guy characters. Meet the artist, enjoy live piano music, complimentary food and drinks, and browse artworks available for purchase.
Zeta and The Songbirds: LIVE
Join us off site at the Center for Spiritual Living in the downtown area of Las Cruces, NM on July 25th at 7PM. Experience the soulful sounds of Zeta & The Songbirds, featuring Zeta Shearill, Meg Apodaca, Albert Barajas, and Spencer Taylor. This event serves as a fundraiser for the Doña Ana Arts Council. Click to learn more!
JULY: Open Mic Night
🎤✨ Join us for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there!
JUNE: Open Mic Night
🎤✨ Join us this Friday for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there!
ARTE Lifelong Learning Summer Short Session
Join Kathleen Key, Art Historian and ARTE co-founder, for a 4-week summer series of engaging and insightful art history classes!
Dates: Mondays, June 16 – July 7 (In-Person) AND
Zoom Repeats: Thursdays, June 19 – July 10
Scheduled from 1:00 – 2:30 PM in-person and on Zoom
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TODAY!
LIVE MUSIC: Featuring Benjy Rivas at the DAAC Gallery
Live Music Fundraiser with Benjy Rivas – Saturday, June 7
Enjoy an intimate evening of soulful Americana with acclaimed musician Benjy Rivas at the Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery. Tickets are $15 and include food and drinks. 6:30–8:00 PM.
GRAND ART EXHIBIT OPENING: Chiung Fang Chang - "Little Theaters of the Heart"
Join us for the exciting grand opening of Little Theaters of the Heart, a solo exhibition by Taiwanese artist Chiung Fang Chang, this Friday, June 6, from 6–8 PM at the Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery.
MAY: Open Mic Night
🎤✨ Join us this Friday for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there! 🎶🎭🎙️
Keller and Jennings: LIVE PERFORMANCE
Join award-winning Americana duo Jennings & Keller for an unforgettable evening of “Fusion Folk” at the Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery on May 10th at 7 PM. Blending folk, jazz, and roots music, their storytelling and stage presence promise a night of rich musical artistry!
BOOK LAUNCH for SEX ON STAGE
BOOK LAUNCH: Sex on Stage
Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery, 230 S. Water St., Las Cruces, NM
Friday, May 2, 2025 | ⏰ 5 PM | 🎟️ Free Admission
Join us for the world premiere of Sex on Stage, a bold new collection edited by local scholar Dr. Lynn Sally and published by Bloomsbury. Enjoy readings, behind-the-scenes stories, and book signings at this special launch event. Click here to learn more and register!
Paul & Carlos Meyer Author Event!
Join award-winning New Mexico comic authors Paul & Carlos Meyer for a special signing of Under the Cottonwood Tree: El Susto de la Curandera at Zia Comics in downtown Las Cruces! Discover a heartfelt tale rooted in Nuevomexicano heritage and folklore, brought to life with stunning artwork by Hollywood artist Margaret Hardy.
📍 Zia Comics, 125 N Main St
📅 Friday, May 2nd, 2025 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Rod MacDonald: LIVE MUSIC EVENT!
Folk music fans, mark your calendars! Acclaimed singer-songwriter Rod MacDonald is coming to Las Cruces for a special one-night performance on Saturday, April 19th, at 7 PM at the Doña Ana Arts Council gallery (230 S. Water St.)—brought to you by A Still Small Voice 4U. Click to learn more!
ONE NIGHT ONLY: Zeta Shearill and The Songbirds
Join us for “One Night Only” on April 11, 7–9 PM in our Gallery located at 230 S. Water St. Las Cruces, NM! 🎶✨ Experience the soulful sounds of Zeta Shearill & The Songbirds, alongside Meg Apodaca, Albert Barajas, and Spencer Taylor. Sponsored by Bold Futures, this night of music, wine, and art supports the Doña Ana Arts Council—$10 suggested donation. Don’t miss it! Click to learn more!
Exhibition Opening: Wanderlust - The Las Colcheras Quilt Guild
Join us for the opening reception of Wanderlust at the Doña Ana Arts Council Gallery on Friday, March 28th, 2025, from 6–8 PM! Enjoy an evening of live music, free refreshments, and the chance to meet the artists behind this inspiring quilt exhibit. Admission is free—come celebrate art, culture, and the spirit of travel with us!
February: Open Mic Night!
🎤✨ Join us this Friday for a night of raw talent and creative expression at the Doña Ana Arts Council's FREE Open Mic Night! Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just love supporting local artists, this is your chance to shine or cheer on others in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on an evening of great performances, community vibes, and endless inspiration—see you there! 🎶🎭🎙️
January: Open Mic Night
Friday, January 31st, 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
Experience the Power of Poetry!
Join us for Open Mic Night, hosted by DAAC Board Vice President Federico Almarez. It is an intimate and inspiring evening of open poetry and spoken word! Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith, an emerging writer, or simply a lover of language, this free event welcomes all.
Share your own creations, discover fresh voices, and connect with fellow literary enthusiasts. From novice to expert, diverse perspectives and styles unite in a supportive and stimulating environment.
Opening Reception: Melting Point Exhibit - ON VIEW
ON VIEW: Melting Point - NMSU Alumni Group Exhibit
Fri, Jan 17, 20256:00 PM Fri, Mar 14, 20255:00 PM
Get ready to experience the ultimate cultural fusion! "Melting Point," a groundbreaking exhibit curated by Natalia Matinez, who is also an Honors Art History NMSU Alumni, brings together the vibrant works of Mexican and Filipino artists, all NMSU alumni, in a dynamic celebration of identity, heritage, and creativity.
On view from January 17th to March 14th, 2025, at the Doña Ana Arts Council (230 S Water St, Las Cruces, NM, 88012), this innovative showcase features a diverse range of mediums, from ceramic and painting to drawing and mixed media. "Melting Point" boldly tackles themes of assimilation, cultural heritage, and the impact of fast fashion and colonialism, all while pushing the boundaries of art and identity.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, January 17th, 2025, from 6-8 PM, featuring smooth tunes by Jonathan, a talented jazz pianist from the NMSU Band, and enjoy light refreshments and drinks on us!
Jo Mata: Artist Talk
Join us for an engaging discussion with mixed media artist Jo Mata, as she shares insights into her creative process, inspirations, and the stories behind her vibrant works. We will explore topics such as: Cultural identity and personal narratives in her art. Techniques and materials used in her mixed media creations. The role of symbolism and mythology in her work. The intersection of art and social justice, and more!
Georgia O’Keeffe Birthday Tea Party Celebration!
Join us for an enchanting afternoon honoring the legendary American artist Georgia O'Keeffe's birthday!
This is a fundraising event for the DAAC and is hosted by A Still Small Voice! We are incredibly grateful for this collaboration!
Click to learn more and purcahse tickets!
ON VIEW: Jo Mata - Mare Nostrum: A Look into an Artists’s Inner Visions
Jo Mata is a self-taught mixed media Dominican artist based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She explores the human experience and the female body from a sociopolitical, philosophical and identity point of view. Creating thought-provoking art in which sensual and powerful human figures appear to be immersed in some reverie. Other times, these figures are depicted going through turmoil, tussling, and strife. At times, they exhibit a penetrating gaze towards the viewer, as if wanting to establish a connection or dialogue. In her artworks, she builds a narrative using elements of Greek mythology, but also delving into myth and legends of universal mythology to represent female archetypes and to challenge gender norms. She will exhibit with a wide span of techniques and materials, including, but not limited to, painting, drawing, engraving, sculpture, and installation in this exhibition.