New Mexico Magazine Photos on Display in Carrizozo

Enjoy an art filled day trip down the mountain to see the New Mexico magazine photos are on display in Carrizozo.

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then what are a thousand pictures worth?

Such is the riddle presented by nearby Carrizozo’s Tularosa Basin Gallery of Photography, a 7,500 square foot collection displaying the works of 35 photographers and home to the New Mexico magazine photos now through June 2016.

The Gallery opened in 2014 when the Malkersons partnered with photography expert David Mandel. It occupies the central floor of the town’s largest building − purchased by Warren and Joan Malkerson a decade ago.

“It’s the largest photography-only gallery in the whole state,” beamed Warren Malkerson. “And all our photographers and photography have to be from New Mexico. It’s New Mexico true.”

Desert storms, proud stone churches and vibrant windblown trees are among the many icons of the Land of Enchantment on display at the Gallery.  Prints are available for purchase.

Warren retired to Carrizozo from his corporate career. His wife, Joan, and many other members of Carrizozo’s growing art community refine their craft on the second floor of the Gallery.  She also runs a contemporary art gallery across the street.

The number of photographers on display keeps climbing, but the Gallery scored a real coup when Warren convinced New Mexico Magazine to put its annual photo contest on display for the first time. The Malkersons are proud boosters of what’s being called a Carrizozo Renaissance, a push that features the Carrizozo Artist Tour and Festival on Aug. 15-16.

“It’s a real neat little town all by itself,” shared Warren. “You can come here and reinvent yourself. You can do something you haven’t done before.”

The Tularosa Basin Gallery of Photography is located at 401 12th Street. Hours are Thursday- Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.  For more information, visit their website or call 575-937-1489.

—Kyle Marksteiner