The art and science of New Mexico

updated September 2020

If you like art in any form- paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, pottery, jewelry, woodcarving- I recommend you plan a trip to northeast New Mexico to visit Santa Fe and Taos .

Of course, you may need to wait until New Mexico further relaxes its pandemic precautions. Their COVID-19 response has been aggressive but successful in minimizing disease and death.

How New Mexico Controlled the Spread of COVID-19

“the focus on science may be the biggest factor in New Mexico’s resilience… the state has been “very proactive at implementing science-based decisions.”

Dr. Scrase adds that “it’s really exciting to have a governor who values science and evidence.” Reopening decisions did take economic interests into account, he notes, but ultimately, they were driven by data about health and safety. “I’m really proud of that,” ( quote in the article from New Mexico’s Secretary of Human Services)

Santa Fe

You will be able to visit gallery after gallery, shop after shop for days on end, and still not see them all. If you arrive by air your art tour will start right at the airport which is small but sets the tone for what you will see during your stay.

As you step outside the terminal you will be greeted by the bronze statue Reverence by artist David Pearson. As described in an art guide,

“Hers is a pose of prayer, of openness to powers beyond all understanding,.. Her ancient gesture is transformed into one of welcome and benefaction in her perfect placement at the Santa Fe airport. “

statue of a young woman with outstretched arms

the Taos New Mexico airport terminal, an adobe building

Taos- city and the pueblo

Taos is an art mecca both within the town and at the Taos Pueblo, which is also a must see for those interested in Native American history and culture. At the pueblo, tribe members display and sell handmade arts and crafts.

As you travel around both cities and the surrounding areas, you don’t have to look for the art- it will find you.

exploring the HEART of health and art in New Mexico

Dr. Aletha

Raymond and I found several charming and tasty restaurants in Santa Fe

man and woman at dinner — Dr. Aletha and Raymond

Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me. View all posts by Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.