Media Contact:
Danielle Schlobohm - Director, Downtown ABQ MainStreet and Arts & Cultural District
danielle@abqmainstreet.org | 507-210-5723
Discover Downtown Murals with ABQ Artwalk and the Downtown ABQ MainStreet and Arts & Cultural District
New Artwalk Murals Tour showcases the diverse array of Downtown murals
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – June 7, 2024 – Explore the world of downtown Albuquerque’s murals with the Artwalk Murals Tour, a new offering from ABQ Artwalk and the Downtown ABQ Mainstreet and Arts & Cultural District.
Each month, local blogger and history expert Eric Castillo will lead participants on a guided walking tour that showcases the diverse array of Downtown murals. Castillo will provide insights into the artists and the stories behind each stunning masterpiece, offering a deeper appreciation of Albuquerque’s public art scene. The tour is perfect for art enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the city in a unique and engaging way.
The murals in downtown Albuquerque represent a blend of history and diversity, featuring works by local, national and international artists. The oldest mural still existing downtown is the Spring Cottonwoods mural on the Insurance Building at 610 Gold Ave. SW. The building was constructed in 1955, and the mural is estimated to have been painted around 1983. While the murals offer a contemporary history of Albuquerque, many also depict, celebrate and remind us of the city's and New Mexico’s past.
Thanks to funding provided by the Visit Albuquerque Tourism Grant Program, tickets for the mural tour are free. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Albuquerque’s art scene up close.
Artwalk Murals Tour Details:
What: Artwalk Murals Tour
When: Monthly during ABQ Artwalk festivities (dates available at abqartwalk.com or at followeric.blog)
Where: Meet at Art Stop, the outdoor marketplace located at the corner of 7th Street and Gold Avenue. Art Stop features artisans, food vendors, and live music, making it the perfect starting point for your mural adventure.
Cost: Free, thanks in part to the Visit Albuquerque Tourism Grant Program.
“We are thrilled to offer this new experience to both locals and visitors,” said Danielle Schlobohm, Director of the Downtown ABQ MainStreet and Arts & Cultural District. “The murals of Downtown Albuquerque highlight the city's dynamic and diverse artistic community, and the Artwalk Murals Tour is a fantastic way to celebrate and learn about these incredible works of art.”
“The new Artwalk Murals Tour is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to explore the history and uniqueness of downtown Albuquerque, and it’s great to see the continued expansion of experiences that contribute to the vibrancy of this neighborhood,” said Tania Armenta, President and CEO of Visit Albuquerque. “We are proud to support this initiative through our Tourism Grant Program, the goal of which is to generate creative visitor and resident experiences that benefit and grow tourism and build community.”
For more information about the Artwalk Murals Tour or to sign up for a tour, please visit: www.abqartwalk.com/downtownabqmuraltours.
About the Downtown ABQ MainStreet and Arts & Culture District
The Downtown ABQ MainStreet and Arts & Culture District is both a place and a program in action: it is a designated area of 30 blocks in Downtown Albuquerque, and as an initiative of Downtown ABQ Mainstreet and Arts and Culture District supports the creative economy of Downtown Albuquerque. We accomplish this through promotional support, funding, and partnerships.
ABQ Artwalk is a monthly event that brings together artists, musicians, and local businesses to celebrate the vibrant arts scene in Albuquerque. Through guided tours, exhibitions, and community events, ABQ Artwalk aims to make art accessible to everyone.
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