Be Inspired By The Murals of Las Cruces
Las Cruces has many museums that capture the history and culture of enchanting New Mexico. However, its most accessible gallery is displayed all over the city in the form of murals. Passerbyers may glimpse them outside on buildings, inside restaurants, sprinkled throughout neighborhoods, and wrapped around water tanks.
Each mural tells a story long forgotten, highly revered, or waiting to be told. By car or on foot, however you decide to tour the Murals of Las Cruces, you and your group will be spellbound and inspired.
The Murals of Las Cruces Project
Many of the murals around the city were painted by artist Sebastian “VELA” Velazquez. His initial and continued work incited a movement, and other local artists jumped on the artsy bandwagon.
In an attempt to preserve and document these works of art, the Murals of Las Cruces Project was created. The community-based initiative invites the community and visitors to photograph, record, and ultimately create discussions and share interpretations of each piece.
The murals highlight “agricultural life in the Mesilla Valley, environmental awareness, and vibrant indigenous and Hispanic street art.” According to the Murals of Las Cruces Project website, “Because murals tend to be ephemeral, we see our work as an important way of preserving public art.”
Take a Tour
Become a part of the discussion and find the message in each mural by taking a self-guided tour throughout Las Cruces. You can find a map and locations of murals all over town via Murals of Las Cruces. The organization advises, “While we encourage the public to explore the murals in our city, please be aware that some murals are on private property.” So stay on sidewalks and other public spaces to view them and snap photos.
Make Time For Reflection
Every piece of art deserves moments of reflection. Ponder the local art of the murals of Las Cruces and relax in one of Hacienda RV Resort’s spacious full hook-up RV sites with a view of the mountains.