The Incredible Art of Ruidoso
This scenic mountain village exhibits the works of art of numerous artists and craftspeople from the area for the pleasure of visitors and residents alike.
The Ruidoso Downs Race Track 2016 meet may be concluded and the winter activities on Ski Apache have yet to commence, but there are many other compelling events for people to experience amidst the mountain vistas of this impressive locale.
For varied reasons, the Lincoln County location has been an enclave for many skilled artisans over the years. Some believe the mountainous surroundings promote and activate the talents of artists. Others seem to think it’s just an excellent place in nature to clear one’s head and stimulate the creative juices of those fortunate, gifted individuals who ply their craft at artistry. Whatever the case, Ruidoso has an inordinate number of highly skilled craftspeople who produce many imaginative and important works of art.
One of multiple art locations, which exhibits such works, is the Art Ruidoso Gallery at 2809 Sudderth Drive, in uptown Ruidoso. It schedules artistic activities on a regular basis. Its normal hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. but on the first Friday of every month the Gallery will remain open until 8 p.m. It is closed on Tuesday. It has been in business at this location for the past two years and exhibits paintings, photography, jewelry, glass and pottery crafted by 40 artists, all who reside within 75 miles of Ruidoso. All the art is original. The next “First Friday” will be on Nov. 4. Free refreshments will be served.
Artist Tamara Haas gets “a sense of accomplishment” when she finishes an oil or acrylic watercolor abstract painting. “We have some very good artists in this area,” she said. Haas has numerous works (20-30) hung in the Gallery and has been painting since childhood.
Resident painter, Laury Reed, came to Ruidoso years ago to attend an art class. “I’ve always wanted to paint,” she explained. “The talent here amazes me. You can view anything from serious artwork, to doodles, to pencil work.” Reed has 30 paintings on exhibit at the Gallery.
Upcoming, on Thursday, Nov. 10, will be the popular Art Jam Party, which is hosted by acknowledged abstract artist, John Terrell, from 6-8 p.m. This workshop is open to all who wish to express their creative side but is limited to 12 participants so there is ample room to work and all may be afforded professional help from accomplished instructors. Everyone may leave with their work. You may register for the Art Jam Party here. Supplies, snacks, drinks and music will be provided. No experience is necessary.
“I get a thrill out of helping people open up and be creative,” Terrell offered. “We have visitors from out of state who are looking for something to do, and for some, this fills the bill. Ruidoso is a great place to clear your head.” Terrell has 10 to 20 pieces on view at the Gallery. “When I start a painting I want it to be finished but sometimes you need to think about it for a while. You can’t push it. Occasionally, I stand back and contemplate it. The studio is my living room. Once I have a name for the painting I’m working on, I feel it’s personal enough for me and that people will then understand it.”
On the first and third Sunday of the month, the Art Ruidoso Gallery features live music improvisation from 2-5 p.m. with visiting musicians performing. Art classes are conducted at various times. For further information you may go here or call Tamara Haas at 575-808-1133.
—Michael Curran