2009 New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative

The New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative aims to diversify the state's public art collection by purchasing artwork from artists in all stages of their careers who are living, working, or exhibiting in New Mexico. Artwork must be durable, permanent, low-maintenance, and in compliance with ADA guidelines. All media will be considered.

Artwork will be purchased for approximately 75 public facilities located across the state. Sites have funds ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, with each site able to purchase no more than two artworks. Contracts are limited to a $1,000 minimum for each piece or series (2-3 pieces). This amount includes all applicable expenses: materials, insurance, framing/exhibition, labor, taxes, installation, travel, project plaque, and photographic documentation. Artists are responsible for museum quality framing/exhibition and secure permanent installation, with costs included in the artwork price. Payment will not be made until a site visit verifies proper installation and compliance with requirements.

Eligibility is open to artists in all stages of their careers who live in New Mexico or are represented by a New Mexico gallery. Galleries in New Mexico may submit for artists they represent regardless of the artist's state of residence. All entries must be original artwork available for purchase, completed in the past ten years (1998-2008), with edition sizes not exceeding 50 images. Artists may submit up to three digital images; galleries may submit up to three images per artist. Artwork smaller than 11 inches or larger than 80 inches requires prior contact with New Mexico Arts. A Submission Review Panel of artists and art professionals will jury submissions into a pool of finalists, which will then be reviewed by Regional Buying Committees representing eligible sites throughout the state. Selection criteria include ability to create art of unique vision and highest caliber, developed and consistent style, and professional quality of images and support materials.