Through a generous grant from PNM Resources, the grassroots economic development nonprofit Nob Hill Main Street has commissioned the installation of a large mural and gabion walls in the Nob Hill corridor. These new design elements are welcomed in Nob Hill, a district already known for its burgeoning arts and cultural community.

The new mural on Artisan Art Supply showcases the natural beauty of the city while mixing in a bit of history with the distinct spelling of "Alburquerque". Artist Larry Bob Phillips explains that Alburquerque is "the original spelling of the Duke of Alburquerque for whom our city is named. ‘Alburquerque' is also the source of the shorthand ‘Burque', a time-honored handle for the location." The artist included gothic script block letters reminiscent of tattoo script to raise awareness of the many changes that have taken place in Albuquerque's rich and turbulent history. As for the natural elements of the mural, Larry Bob explains, "I also want to draw attention to the great natural beauty that exists in our magical place between the river and the mountains under the heavens". "Alburquerque" is located on the east wall of Artisan Art Supply in Nob Hill and will be complete for the Co-op's 25th Annual Earth Fest on Sunday, April 19th, 2015.

Mr. Phillips holds a bachelor's and master's degree in fine arts. He is currently an adjunct instructor at Central New Mexico Community College where he teaches studio and lecture classes. His work has been exhibited across the city, state, and country.

Another major part of the PNM grant awarded to Nob Hill Main Street was the construction of gabion walls in their community garden. Now that this garden is making way for a new housing development, portions of it have been moved to the Media Arts Collaborative Charter School's new outdoor space on Adams and Copper. The gabion walls, constructed of stacked stone tied together by wire, are pleasing to the eye and serve as edges for the students' outdoor space.

Nob Hill Main Street plans to promote these new neighborhood additions during the Co-op's 25th Annual Earth Fest on Sunday, April 19th on Silver Avenue between Carlisle and Amherst. There will be a "Selfie Contest" for a $50 gift card to the Nob Hill business of the winner's choices. NHMS encourages Burqueños to visit their table at the festival to be entered into the contest!