ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - (March 3, 2015) -Albuquerque has long been known for many things that make it exciting and unique: fantastic cuisine, a mix of cultures, an array of outdoor activities, film tourism and traditional Southwestern art. Until recently, the diversity of the city's arts scene, featuring a stunning array of contemporary art installations, was somewhat unknown to non-residents. On the Map sets out to change that, with more than 20 venues hosting events featuring a diverse selection of Albuquerque art.

Now through June, Albuquerque visitors can experience countless forms and styles of art, including photography, paintings, sculptures, murals and much more, all by local artists and displayed in venues that are a reflection of the city's distinct culture, such as the historic KiMo Theatre and the modern 516 ARTS. There are more than 75 events and exhibitions scheduled through the run of the event.

"I believe On the Map puts Albuquerque's incredible arts scene in the national spotlight," said Albuquerque mayor Richard J. Berry. "It's a scene that locals know about and can see all around them every day, and this collaboration helps us share the diversity and quality of art here with an outside audience."

Some events include:

Visualizing Albuquerque, Albuquerque Museum, through May 3
From the Ground Up: Design Here + Now, 516 ARTS, through April 11
All Over the Map: The Ongoing Dialogue of Public Art, Albuquerque Museum, through April 15
Coordinates, Richard Levy Gallery, through June 6
Surface: Emerging Artists of New Mexico, Harwood Art Center, through end of June

"I would imagine that no two people mean the same thing when they are referring to the art of the middle Rio Grande Valley," said Libby Lumpkin, renowned art historian and UNM professor. "That's what I like about the [On The Map] project. It brings out all the many types-art that carries on ancient traditions or shocks with the new, art that promotes spirituality or political positions, the sophisticated, the decorative and all points in between. My favorites are the works that generate friction between types. That's where sparks fly."

For more information on On the Map, including a detailed event schedule, go to www.ABQonthemap.com. Brochures featuring a detailed location map and schedule can be picked up at Albuquerque's Visitor Information Centers, located in historic Old Town Albuquerque and the Albuquerque International Sunport.