Diablo Canyon. Courtesy Tourism Santa Fe.

Further southwest is Albuquerque, which offers a uniquely Southwest experience as one of the oldest cities in the United States. While a number of prominent art museums like the Albuquerque Museum in Old Town reside here, the city is also known for its vibrant public art, which can be discovered throughout the city, both indoors and outdoors. Murals, statues, paintings and street art decorate the city, from the airport to Old Town, the University district and all along Route 66. In addition, monthly art crawls give collectors the chance to glimpse local artwork up close and possibly meet the artists themselves.

 

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Acosta Strong Fine Art, Lone Wanderer, mixed media, steel wire and watercolor on panel, 12 x 14 x 3⅜ in., by Blair Robbins. Acosta Strong Fine Art, What a Wonderful Day to Play in the River, enamel on glass, 34 x 12 in., by Max Baptiste.

Located at the beginning of Canyon Road in Santa Fe, Acosta Strong Fine Art has emerged as a leading venue for art aficionados in search of both historic art and the dynamic creations of contemporary talent. The gallery's dedication to presenting a wide array of artistic voices has transformed it into a must-visit destination for collectors eager to explore the exciting possibilities of artistic expression.

Acosta Strong Fine Art, End of the Myth #1, acrylic on canvas, 30 x 40 in., by Brad Richards.

The gallery proudly showcases works from established artists such as Sean Michael Chavez, Evelyne Boren and Edward Gonzales, as well as rising stars, creating a lively collection that appeals to a wide spectrum of artistic sensibilities. Among the exciting new additions to the gallery are artists Brad Richards, Max Baptiste and Blair Robbins, whose fresh and innovative approaches to modern Western art invigorate the collection. 

Top: An admirer peruses the Native American paintings at Santa Fe Indian Market’s Best of Show. Bottom: A shopper tries on authentic handmade Native jewelry at Santa Fe Indian Market. When the Pueblo Revivalist-style New Mexico Museum of Art opened in 1917, it was the first building in the state dedicated to art.

Local, regional and international artists are represented in Santa Fe’s 250-plus world-class galleries, 25 museums and dozens of renowned art markets. Notable markets include the 21st International Folk Art Market (July 10-13), where 160 master artists from more than 50 countries showcase their work bazaar-style in the Railyard District. On the historic plaza, don’t miss the 103rd SWAIA Santa Fe Indian Market (August 15-17), the world’s largest intertribal art market.

The Sharp Garden and tipi, looking toward the Couse studio and workshop. The architecture, furnishings, gardens, views, collections and archives of Couse-Sharp Historic Site provide unparalleled insight into the early Taos art colony and its milieu. Photo by Kyle Brown. Couse-Sharp Historic Site, Intersections, 2025, oil on canvas, 30 x 30 in., by Josh Elliott. Part of Sun Brothers: Dean, Elliott, Hagege in the Land of Enchantment, June 27-November 15.

Couse-Sharp Historic Site delves into the early 20th-century Taos art colony and its fascinating context. Inspired by the light, landscapes and people, the Taos Society of Artists (TSA) created a shared vision of uniquely American art, forever influencing perceptions of Native America and the West.

Couse-Sharp Historic Site, Self Portrait, ca. 1900, oil on canvas, 38¾ x 31¼ in., by Catharine Carter Critcher (1868-1964). Currently on view in the Lunder Research Center.

The campus includes the homes, studios and gardens of Eanger Irving Couse and Joseph Henry Sharp, two of the TSA founders; workshops of Kibbey Couse, a pioneering inventor; and the Lunder Research Center. Couse’s home and studio remain largely as they were in 1936, with his original artwork, Indigenous art collection and Spanish Colonial art and furniture. Visitors see Sharp’s restored 1915 studio and collections, and his 1906 studio in an 1830s former chapel.

Top: Dominique Boisjoli Fine Art, Dancing in the Light, reclaimed steel, approx. 50 in., by Chris Turri. Dominique Boisjoli Fine Art, Spring Begins, acrylic on canvas, 36 x 36 in., by Dominique Boisjoli. Bottom: Dominique Boisjoli Fine Art, Mountain Moguls, oil on panel, 36 x 48 in., by Sharon Grimes.

Dominique Boisjoli Fine Art showcases works by the owner/artist, as well as 25 other artists working in mediums ranging from abstract and impressionistic painting, to sculpture in reclaimed steel, bronze, ceramic and glass. Many of the gallery’s artists take inspiration predominantly from Southwestern landscapes, mythology and the natural world. Featured artists Chris Turri and Sharon Grimes work in reclaimed automotive steel and abstract acrylic on canvas, respectively. The gallery will host a show of Grimes’ work in May with a reception celebrating the artist on May 9.

Top: Gallery Wild, Peace Through Calamity, oil on canvas, 40 x 50 in., by Silas Thompson. Bottom: Gallery Wild, Lady from Santa Fe, acrylic on panel, 24 x 20 in., by Rocky Hawkins. An interior view of Gallery Wild on Canyon Road.

Located at the entrance of historic Canyon Road, Gallery Wild showcases a variety of contemporary fine art inspired by wildlife, wild spaces and the Wild West. Gallery Wild’s collection features more than 25 established and emerging artists in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, mixed media and photography. Owned and operated by wildlife painter Carrie Wild and wildlife photographer Jason Williams, Gallery Wild's works and philosophy are inspired and directly influenced by thousands of hours in the field observing, studying and falling in love with all things wild.

Top: A view of La Fonda on the Plaza’s exterior. A Tony Abeyta painting hangs in La Fonda on the Plaza. Photo by Jen Judge. Bottom: A glimpse into one of La Fonda’s art-filled rooms.

Beyond the art, La Fonda offers luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining at La Plazuela and breathtaking views from its rooftop bar. Its location on the historic plaza places visitors within walking distance of top attractions like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or simply seeking Southwestern charm, La Fonda is the perfect destination for an unforgettable Santa Fe experience.

Top: Legacy Gallery, Three Man Band, bronze, 73 x 12 x 12 in., by Paul Rhymer. Legacy Gallery, A Sacred Place, oil, 30 x 30 in., by John Moyers. Bottom: Legacy Gallery, Paria Cliffs, 30 x 50 in., by G. Russell Case.

Legacy Gallery is proud to represent more than 100 nationally known artists. Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Santa Fe, New Mexico, the gallery offers the finest in representational and impressionistic art. Since 1988, Legacy Gallery has specialized in paintings and sculptures in a wide variety of subject matter, including Western, figurative, wildlife, still life and landscapes. In addition to a large roster of esteemed living artists, Legacy Gallery offers works by 19th- and 20th-century artists like Olaf Wieghorst, Charles M. Russell, Olaf C. Seltzer, Joseph H. Sharp, Frederic Remington and the Taos Founders.

Manitou Galleries, Against the Wind, acrylic on panel, 20 x 16 in., by William Haskell. Manitou Galleries on Palace Avenue in Santa Fe.

Manitou Galleries is a premier destination for contemporary Western art, showcasing exceptional works by some of the most talented artists in the genre. Dedicated to representing the very best in Western art, the gallery features a carefully curated collection that celebrates the spirit, culture and landscapes of the West.

Manitou Galleries, Who’s the Boss, bronze, ed. of 40, 17 x 9 x 11 in., by John Maisano.

Manitou Galleries is known for its unwavering dedication to quality, supported by a knowledgeable and passionate team eager to guide art enthusiasts and collectors alike. For those seeking contemporary Western masterpieces, Manitou Galleries offers an unparalleled experience.

Top: Morphy Auctions & Old West Events, The Protector, oil on canvas, 24 x 30 in., by Till Goodan (1896-1958). Estimate: $7/9,000. Morphy Auctions & Old West Events, The Westerner, oil on canvas, 18 x 24 in., by Harvey Johnson (1921-2005). Estimate: $6/9,000. Bottom: Enthusiastic bidding at a previous Old West Show & Auction.

The Old West Show & Auction takes place June 20 to 21, 2025 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the perfect community for the gathering of incredible exhibitors from all over the country. The galleries and shops are a fitting backdrop for the finest of Western artwork, cowboy collectibles, Native American artifacts, textiles and jewelry, all of which are available for purchase at the show, held at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center.

Top: Nedra Matteucci Galleries, Inspecting Pots, oil on canvas, 22 x 30 in., by William Acheff. Bottom: Nedra Matteucci Galleries, Lower Ranchito, oil on board, 20 x 24 in., by Oscar E. Berninghaus (1874-1952). The exterior of Nedra Matteucci Galleries.

Nedra Matteucci Galleries is a true Santa Fe landmark with more than 50 years as one of the top fine art dealers in the country. The gallery specializes in important American art, most notably works by the Taos Society of Artists and the early Santa Fe art colony. It also displays work by some of the best contemporary Southwestern artists. Housed in a classic adobe building spanning 15,000 square feet, complete with a renowned one-acre sculpture garden and koi pond, the gallery is a must-see destination for collectors and art lovers alike. Families and pets are welcome.

Left: Parsons Fine Art, Waiting for the Dancers, oil, 14 x 20 in., by Oscar E. Berninghaus (1874-1952). Right: Parsons Fine Art, A Storm Brewing, oil, 16 x 20 in., by Walter Ufer (1876-1936).

Historically, Taos has always played a significant role in the history of the arts in our country. Parsons Fine Art continues that legacy by showcasing works by the Taos Society of Artists, Taos founders, early Taos Art Colony and some of the finest examples of classic period Navajo Weaving. Located in historic downtown Taos, housed in the remarkable home of Ferdinand Maxwell, the gallery is open to the public and offers a wide range of works for the most esteemed collector while still having offerings for the beginner collector.

Several paintings on view at Parsons Fine Art.

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Left: Santa Fe Art Auction, Taos Mountain, oil on board, 15 x 18½ in., by Joseph Henry Sharp (1859-1953). Estimate: $20/30,000. Right: Santa Fe Art Auction, Gold Rush, 1936, gouache on paper, 22½ x 18¼ in., Maynard Dixon (1875-1946). Estimate: $25/45,000

Since its inception more than 30 ago, Santa Fe Art Auction now stands as one of the most venerable auction houses in the Southwest. It has evolved into a state-of-the-art operation offering a wide range of specialties, spanning Indigenous and Native American art, as well as classic and contemporary Western art, New Mexico regionalism, and modern art, design and photography. With 16,000 square feet of showroom space in the contemporary Baca Railyard District in Santa Fe, the house now holds eight to 10 live auctions per year, handling more than 5,000 artworks annually.

An installation view of Santa Fe Art Auction’s Art of the West.

Notably, Santa Fe Art Auction has become the largest venue in the Southwest for Native American art and continues to achieve record hammer prices for important Indigenous artists like Fritz Scholder, Earl Biss, Tony Abeyta, Charles Loloma and Jaune Quick-to-See Smith. Works by Gustave Baumann, Gerard Delano, Dorothy Brett and Luis Jiménez are also among recent record results. The application of cutting-edge technology and an expansion of in-house expertise has allowed SFAA to serve single-owner collections of increasing size and importance. Significant upcoming works include Mark Maggiori, Maynard Dixon, Ansel Adams, Yves Tanguy, Alberto Burri, Tammy Garcia and Maria Martinez.

Left: Models walk the runway during SWAIA Native Fashion Week 2024. Photo credit: Gilbert Terrazas via Indigenous Fashion Collective; Designer: Lesley Hampton; Model: Povi Rosa-Chavez. Right: The Santa Fe Indian Market. Photo credit: Gabriella Marks.

In addition to Santa Fe Indian Market, SWAIA offers a range of unique experiences, including SWAIA Native Fashion Week, a week-long celebration of Native American fashion designers, and the Winter Indian Market, a collector-focused event. These experiences foster cultural exchange and highlight the diversity of Native American artistry. The event will take place May 7 through 11.

Native American Regalia Showcase at the 2023 Santa Fe Indian Market. Photo credit: Kitty Leaken.

SWAIA’s reach extends digitally, providing year-round access to Native artists through the SWAIA Digital Market, social media and newsletters. This ensures that Native American art remains accessible to a global audience. At its core, SWAIA is dedicated to honoring both traditional and contemporary Native American art, creating spaces for cultural connection, and promoting Native artists on a global scale.

Left: Winfield Trading Co., A Beautiful Ring, 14k gold Lone Mountain tufa-cast ring, size 9, by Darryl Dean Begay (Navajo).  Right: Winfield Trading Co., multi-color cobblestone inlay buckle, sterling silver, lapis, turquoise, coral and sugilite, by Sonwai (Hopi).

Winfield Trading is one of the premier destinations for Native American jewelry, arts and crafts in New Mexico. 

Winfield Trading Co., Lone Mountain Squash Blossom, sterling silver and Lone Mountain turquoise, 24 in., by Tim Whitman (Navajo).

Winfield Trading began as a wholesale trading post. Today, Justin and his wife Rebecca are carrying the Winfield family history into the 21st century with an elegant retail gallery, turquoise vault and fully stocked website. Justin and Rebecca are devoting their lives to the preservation of Native American culture and tradition through Indian arts and crafts. From quality hand-crafted jewelry to exquisite Navajo rugs, sculptures, baskets, pottery, katsina dolls, paintings and fetishes, collectors can find all they need at this family-owned business. Winfield Trading is also home to the largest selection of Lone Mountain Turquoise stone and jewelry in the industry. The gallery is open Monday through Friday by appointment only.

Left: Jan DeLipsey, Home Made, oil, 14 x 18 in. Right: Jan DeLipsey, Good Morning Moon, oil, 20 x 20 in.

Preferring remote and isolaged painting destinations, DeLipsey is drawn to the ordinary which can become extraordinary when enough time is taken to really “see” what is before her. A nationally award-winning artist, she can most often be found at the easel or on horseback in the high desert mesas and mountains of the four corner states.

Left: John Meister, Bejeweled, oil, 12 x 9 in. Right: John Meister, Look to the Sky, oil, 10 x 8 in.

“The term ‘magical realism’ had to be created for New Mexico. Living here, I appreciate the aesthetic of life in all its forms, and I gravitate toward intimate views of nature and the structure of things,” says Meister. “Life must do a little something extra to thrive here, and sometimes it displays great beauty in the process. I strive to capture that.”

Navajo/Ute artist Oreland Joe.

He continues, “As a group of Indigenous artists, we are interested in preserving knowledge about the land and its sacredness to those who live around these sites. The group anticipates being taught by knowledgeable Navajo men who practice what they say…Our challenge on this excursion is to record visual sacred sites on paper or canvas and share [our works] with upcoming generations.” Joe adds that the event will also provide many opportunities to learn about Navajo culture and speak the Navajo language as well.

Sandbar Trading owner Rick Gottsponer holding up a weaving.

Sandbar Trading could best be described as a gallery full of eclectic treasures. Here, collectors will find objects ranging from historical to contemporary, focusing on Native American, Southwestern and Western art and artifacts, including Navajo weavings, paintings, silver and turquoise jewelry, pueblo pottery, beadwork, historic books, baskets, katsinam and much more. “We buy and consign from people downsizing their collections, as well as from artists,” says owner Rick Gottsponer, who started the business with his wife Julie in Wichita, Kansas, more than 30 years ago. “Collectors are always checking with us for items that they are searching for, and they know that we guarantee and ship daily.”

Sandbar Trading, 1920s Kewa jar

After years of doing shows and business in Santa Fe, the couple moved to the city last year. “We love it here,” says Julie. “Rick grew up in Southern New Mexico, so it is [like] coming back home.” —