Sunset on the Ridge painting by Gayther Gonzales
Las Vegas, N.M. – Highlands University presents the first Highlands Alumni Art Exhibition with a public opening reception May 13 from 1 – 3 p.m.
The exhibition is in the Kennedy Alumni Hall at 905 University Ave.
“We haven’t had an alumni art show at Kennedy Hall before, but received an excellent response with 20 artists submitting more than 50 works of paintings and photography,” said Renee Buchanan, the Highlands Foundation art curator and archivist. “We’re very excited about showcasing the wonderful work of our Highlands’ alumni.”
Buchanan said the artists in the exhibition include both local and out-of-town alumni. She curated the exhibition.
“This exhibition is evidence that our thriving local art community in Las Vegas has a close connection to Highlands,” Buchanan said. “These alumni include extremely talented artists with work ranging from New Mexico landscape paintings to digital photography focused on color and form.”
Buchanan said the majority of the featured artists have exhibited their work in other venues in New Mexico.
“Some of the well-known local artists featured include photographers Martha and Joe McCaffrey and Nancy Leippe. Some of the painters include Gayther Gonzales, Meredith Britt, and Shawna and Isaac Sandoval, owners of the Skillet Restaurant,” Buchanan said.
Buchanan said the alumni response to the exhibition was enthusiastic.
“We hope to grow this exhibition in future years and start a new tradition,” Buchanan said.
The Highlands University Foundation is sponsoring the Highlands Alumni Art Exhibition. It continues through June 8. The Kennedy Alumni Hall is open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.