THE NEW MEXICO AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTISTS GUILD

Over a year post-pandemic, we’re still seeing its impact on many organizations. That’s particularly true for the New Mexico African American Artists Guild (aka “the Guild”), a coalition originating in 1972. While the ties holding the collective together are looser in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, the Guild’s still here, with changes on the way.

The Guild’s mission is to preserve the artistic heritage of African Americans in New Mexico, and support artists who demonstrate an African American cultural worldview as inspiration for their work. According to President Kenneth Winfrey, the Guild’s name will soon change to the

New Mexico Artists of the African Diaspora.

The Guild has also undergone recent membership changes. Former VP Michael Carson relocated to Virginia to be closer to his grandchildren; exhibit regular Gwen Samuels moved back East where she still shows her stunning quilts.

Pre-pandemic, the Guild attempted to secure a permanent exhibit place. Now, the focus is to explore alternative venues. Vice President Annie Gillespie continues to secure space at each New Mexico State Fair for Black artists.

As life returns to normal, Annie says she’s excited to re-engage the approximately 80 artists the Guild has stayed connected to.

The Guild is open to all, so to join, call 505.336.0056 or email info@nmaaag.org.

Stop by the New Mexico State Fair to see the Guild’s work up close and in color! The exhibit will be at the Alice K. Hoppes African American Pavillion, and the fair runs from September 7-17, 2023.