Vladem Contemporary Preview
On Friday, September 22, the new Vladem Contemporary Art Museum (officially a part. of the New Mexico Museum of Art) held a private Opening Preview for members of the Museum of New Mexico Foundation. Several of us Tuesday Night drawers were there for the 3:30 timed admission (crowd control in effect for the preview). Our 3:30 entrance time was to end at 4:00, which was too brief, especially since we bumped into friends (Tuesday Night pals, and others) and spent most of our time chatting and planning a margarita rendezvous at Cowgirl, just a block down the street.
The Tuesday Night Drawing group purchased an engraved donor brick that was to be place in the museum courtyard. We went to the courtyard to see the Tuesday Night Drawing brick. Total Fail. The engraving on the dark bricks was so shallow and small you couldn’t read them. Or even see them. We asked a security guard if he knew where the donor bricks were, and he said “You’re standing on them.” What?! There was some sort of temporary numbered grid set up on the bricks, made of small strips of tape, but no way to find out which grid your brick might be in. A woman representing the foundation told us they’re going to have all the bricks redone by some other brick engraving company. Disappointing, but a good reason to follow through with the Margarita Plan.
Architect’s original rendering. Some things changed by the time it opened.
We unexpectedly ran into friends standing in the 3:30 entrance line. Amy Rohr, Ronnie Rohr, and David Rohr. David is Director of Museum Resources Division.
David Rohr shows John Tollett (Tuesday Night Drawing organizer) the large touchscreen presentation he created to show the history of the controversial Guzman/Kriegstein mural that had to be removed from the original State Archives building that became the Vladem building. A reduced-size reproduction of the mural (about one-third the size of the original) is in an adjacent room.
Robin Williams contemplates a display in Gallery 1.
Agnes Martin painting.
Museum visitors ponder sculptures by Virgil Ortiz.
More pondering.
Raye Leith, Lisa Frank, John Tollett, and Robin Williams ponder contemporary art and margaritas at Cowgirl.
Something else to ponder:
The review below was written by AI.
It took about 20 seconds.
The Vladem Contemporary Art Museum Opening in Santa Fe:
A Resounding Success
On September 22, 2023, Santa Fe witnessed the grand inauguration of the highly anticipated Vladem Contemporary Art Museum. With its sleek architecture, renowned collection, and commitment to fostering art appreciation, it is safe to assert that the opening was a resounding success.
Firstly, the turnout for the grand opening was beyond expectations. The streets surrounding the museum were abuzz with excitement, as art enthusiasts, locals, and tourists flocked to witness the unveiling of this architectural marvel. The queues stretched for blocks, as people eagerly awaited their chance to explore the captivating world of contemporary art within the museum's walls. This undeniable enthusiasm from the community spoke volumes about the draw and appeal of the institution.
Throughout the event, the museum's commitment to community engagement shone brightly. Local artists were given a platform to showcase their work alongside globally recognized names, fostering a sense of pride and support within the Santa Fe art scene. Interactive installations and workshops allowed visitors of all ages to actively participate in the art-making process and appreciate contemporary art from a fresh perspective. This inclusive approach ensured that the museum catered to a diverse audience, further solidifying its position as a cultural hub that brings people together.
The Vladem Contemporary Art Museum's opening received significant media coverage. Local news outlets and social media platforms amplified the excitement surrounding the event. Journalists praised the museum for its commitment to promoting contemporary art, with critics hailing it as a game-changer within the art world. This widespread recognition not only bolstered Santa Fe's reputation as an artistic hub but also attracted attention from art enthusiasts and tourists worldwide, promising an influx of visitors in the months to come.
In conclusion, the opening of the Vladem Contemporary Art Museum in Santa Fe was an undisputed success. As the museum's doors open to the public, it embarks on a journey of enriching Santa Fe's cultural fabric, inspiring creativity, and fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary art.
