New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative

The Art in Public Places Program enriches New Mexico's public spaces through an innovative and diverse public art collection. Since its inception in 1986, the program has placed more than 2,500 works of art in all of New Mexico's 33 counties. Through a fair and open public process, local and regional selection committees work with New Mexico Arts to select artwork for their communities. The program also purchases existing original artworks to be placed in public buildings throughout the state.

This initiative is open to artists who reside in New Mexico and galleries located in New Mexico. Galleries may submit work on behalf of represented artists regardless of residency. Applicants must submit an artist statement (5,000 character limit), current resume, and up to three images of previously completed work available for purchase. Original works only; editions exceeding 50 or mass-produced reproductions will not be purchased. Images must include title, year completed, medium, dimensions, price ($1,000-$20,000), description, and edition/print information if applicable.

Artwork will be purchased for publicly accessible buildings throughout New Mexico including amphitheaters, animal shelters, community centers, courthouses, educational institutions, fire stations, healthcare facilities, recreation complexes, rest areas, and senior centers. Project amounts are $1,000-$20,000 all-inclusive, covering materials, labor, insurance, taxes, commissions, fees, delivery, installation, travel, museum quality framing, security hangers, pedestals, project plaques, and documentation. The price of large three-dimensional works should include site preparation and foundation costs. A Submission Review Committee will score applications based on professional qualifications, artistic quality, consistent style, and cultural/ethnic/artistic diversity. Artwork included in the final pool is not a guarantee of sale. If selected, artists must enter into a purchase contract with the State of New Mexico. Submission deadline: August 31, 2023 at 11:59 PM MST.