University of New Mexico Art Museum
A free, three-story gallery on the UNM campus featuring diverse, rotating exhibitions of American art, photography, and prints.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplative
University of New Mexico Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplative
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, three-story gallery on the UNM campus featuring diverse, rotating exhibitions of American art, photography, and prints.
"Not a big place but it's free and I fully enjoyed the art displayed here."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget-conscious art lovers!
🔄 Exhibits Rotate Often
Plan to visit multiple times to see new and exciting art displays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Raymond Jonson Archive
Popejoy Hall
Explore the legacy of this Transcendental Painting Group leader, featuring his paintings and drawings.
Tamarind Archive Lithographs
Popejoy Hall
Discover a comprehensive collection of fine lithographic prints, showcasing diverse artistic techniques.
Photography Collection
Popejoy Hall
From daguerreotypes to digital imagery, witness the evolution of photographic arts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Rotating Exhibits
Explore Diverse Collections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget-conscious art lovers!
🔄 Exhibits Rotate Often
Plan to visit multiple times to see new and exciting art displays.
📍 Located in Popejoy Hall
Find the museum on three floors within the iconic Popejoy Hall on campus.
🎨 Button Making Fun
Check for interactive activities like button making inspired by featured art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget-conscious art lovers!
🔄 Exhibits Rotate Often
Plan to visit multiple times to see new and exciting art displays.
📍 Located in Popejoy Hall
Find the museum on three floors within the iconic Popejoy Hall on campus.
🎨 Button Making Fun
Check for interactive activities like button making inspired by featured art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the University of New Mexico Art Museum for its free admission and dynamic, rotating exhibitions that offer fresh perspectives on art history and contemporary artists. While modest in size, its curated collections, particularly those focusing on American art and photography, provide a rich and educational experience. The museum is a highly recommended stop for those seeking quality art without a hefty price tag.
"Not a big place but it's free and I fully enjoyed the art displayed here. From what I understand, the art often rotated and it changes, so I will try to be back again soon and often."
Deanna Gonzalez
"The University of New Mexico (UNM) Art Museum is located on three floors in Popejoy Hall on the campus of UNM. The attractive, modest-size gallery, which opened in 1963, displays changing exhibitions from the museum's holdings of more than 30,000 objects - the largest collection of fine arts in the state.
The core of UNM Art Museum's holdings focus on 19th and 20th Century American art. This includes historical to contemporary photographic arts ranging from early daguerreotypes, to photographic prints from the Harlem Renaissance, to digital imagery; fine lithographic prints including the complete Tamarind Archive; and the Raymond Jonson archive of more than 1,300 of the renowned artist's own paintings and drawings and hundred of works by related artists. The UNM Art Museum also has small holdings of Old Master works, Spanish and Latin American arts, Early Modern European and American art works, and California Bay Area Art since the 1950s. --- The museum does not have a permanent display of any part of its collections. (Note: The UNM Art Museum's Native American art and pottery are shared, and held by the UNM Maxwell Museum of Anthropology nearby.)
During Winter 2021-22, the UNM Art Gallery is showing an outstanding selection of painting triptychs, cycles, and portraits by Raymond Jonson (1891-1982), a leader of the Transcendental Painting Group that was active during the 1930s and '40s."
E.F. Charvet
"Really interesting exhibits. Each floor has a different flavor, but all had a New Mexico tie-in. We just want to keep coming back to see what they are up to."
Robert Ruenitz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The University of New Mexico Art Museum is located on the UNM campus within Popejoy Hall. Visitors can typically find parking in nearby garages or lots. Public transportation options to the UNM campus are also available.
Yes, there are several parking garages and lots available on the University of New Mexico campus. Check the UNM parking website for the most current information on rates and locations.
The UNM campus is well-served by local bus routes, making public transportation a convenient option for reaching the University of New Mexico Art Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the University of New Mexico Art Museum is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
Museum hours can vary, especially around holidays or academic breaks. It's best to check the official University of New Mexico Art Museum website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Since admission is free, advance booking is generally not required for the University of New Mexico Art Museum. However, for special events or group visits, it's advisable to contact the museum directly.
Yes, the University of New Mexico Art Museum features changing exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing a variety of artists and themes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is described as a modest-size gallery spread across three floors within Popejoy Hall, offering a focused art experience.
The museum's collection focuses on 19th and 20th-century American art, photography, lithographs, and works by artists like Raymond Jonson and Helen Frankenthaler.
No, the University of New Mexico Art Museum does not have a permanent display; its collections are rotated for changing exhibitions.
While not always present, some exhibitions may offer interactive elements, such as button-making activities inspired by the art.
The museum offers educational content that can be engaging for older children and teens interested in art history and diverse artistic styles.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff about restrictions on photography, especially for flash use.
The museum's layout across three floors means various artworks are available for viewing. Always be mindful of other visitors and any posted guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's manageable size means kids won't get too tired exploring its three floors. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different art styles and historical periods in a relaxed, no-cost environment. 💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Deep Dive into the Collections
A cornerstone of the UNMAM's holdings is the Raymond Jonson archive. Jonson, a key figure in the Transcendental Painting Group, is represented by over 1,300 of his own paintings and drawings, alongside works by artists associated with him. The museum also showcases art from various other periods and regions, including Old Master works, Spanish and Latin American arts, and post-1950s California Bay Area Art. It's important to note that while the museum has extensive collections, it does not maintain a permanent display, meaning each visit offers a fresh perspective on its holdings.
Beyond the core collections, UNMAM often highlights artists like Helen Frankenthaler and Elaine de Kooning, providing insights into their artistic journeys and the challenges faced by women artists. Exhibitions can also delve into themes of oppression, revolution, and activism, offering educational and thought-provoking experiences that connect art to broader social and historical contexts.
Experiencing UNMAM: What Visitors Say
The New Mexico tie-in of many exhibits is also a recurring theme in positive feedback. Visitors appreciate how the museum connects with the local artistic heritage and contemporary scene. Specific exhibitions, such as those featuring Raymond Jonson or exploring the works of female artists like Helen Frankenthaler and Elaine de Kooning, have been particularly well-received for their educational value and artistic merit. The museum is seen as a place for learning, with some visitors noting how exhibits have provided insights into art history, social movements, and the personal struggles of artists.
While generally positive, some comments suggest that the museum is not a large-scale institution. However, this is often framed as a strength, making it a worthwhile stop for those who appreciate quality over quantity. The opportunity to see beautiful pieces and learn about different art styles makes it a recommended visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
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