EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — An exhibit of sculptures and nature journaling pages is coming to the Branigan Cultural Center in Las Cruces.
The “Wildlife of the Mesilla Valley” exhibit will have its opening reception and awards ceremony from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7 at the Branigan Cultural Center, 501 N. Main St.
Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artists showcasing their art in the exhibit and attend an artist talk entitled “The Value of Observation in Wildlife Sculpture” with instructor Brian Fallstead at 6 p.m.
The exhibit features 58 works of art created by 14 local artists, including sculptures and detailed nature journaling pages showing 32 native species, the City of Las Cruces said in a news release.
According to the City, nature journaling is the practice of recording observations of nature with words, pictures and numbers. Informational panels accompanying the pieces explore the ecological roles of these animals and ways our society can coexist with them.
“Even in a rapidly growing city like Las Cruces, wildlife remains an integral part of the environment. ‘Wildlife of the Mesilla Valley’ highlights the species that inhabit the region from the rarely seen kangaroo rat and mountain lion to more familiar creatures such as coyotes and desert cottontails. The exhibit reminds us of the delicate balance between nature and urban growth,” the City said.
The exhibit will be on display from Feb. 7 through May 24 and there is no admission charge.
Artists featured in the exhibit include sculptors Brian Fallstead, Rosario Jeremias, Pat Grace, Martha Roditti and Rejina Christopher along with members of the Mesilla Valley Audubon Society Nature Journal Club Cheryl Fallstead, Ellen Jaffe Castello, Kay Gross, Rusty Hendley, Yvette Hinojosa, Ann McPhee, Julia Osgood, Donna Popky and Rebecca Rousseau.
“‘Wildlife of the Mesilla Valley’ not only showcases the artistry of our region but also inspires a deeper connection to the wildlife that makes the Mesilla Valley such a remarkable place. The works on display will inspire visitors to take a closer look at the wildlife around them and to discover the unexpected abundance of life to be found in our desert environment,” the City said.
The Branigan Cultural Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays.
For more information, visit the Las Cruces Museum website or call (575) 541-2154, TTY 711.
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