New Mexico’s 30th ‘enchants’ achievers

“GZA, Wu Tang Clan, Santa Fe, New Mexico” (2007) by David Scheinbaum, archival pigment inkjet print, Courtesy of Verve Gallery of Photography

     (PNAN-NM) – First impressions can go a long way; some may be disenchanted and others will be intrigued, but in this case ‘you have come a long way’ were not hurried decisions, such as a new encounter when our mental process will appraise within seconds. Life has steps and in 1974, then Governor Bruce King and First Lady Alice King laid the foundation for the Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts. Today New Mexico’s leader, Bill Richardson continues with the ‘brick’ laying with his ‘enchantments’ honoring those recipients with lifetime achievement awards for 2010 who are:

“Highway and Mesa” (1982), by Woody Gwyn, oil with alkyd resins on linen, 60 x 78 in, Museum purchase 1983, 1982.62

    Robert Redford of Santa Fe received the Leadership in the Arts; Marian and Abe Silver, Santa Fe; Whited Foundation, Raton; and Working Classroom of Albuquerque were given recognition for the Major Contributor to the Arts; Individual Artists awards went to: Woody Gwyn, Galisteo; Tom Noble, Taos; David Scheinbaum, Santa Fe; Arlene Cisneros Sena, Santa Fe; Paul Shapiro, Santa Fe; and Wes Studi of Santa Fe.

     Over its so far 37-year existence, many have been honored, who make-up a diverse and prestigious list of painters, weavers, sculptors, dancers, musicians, storytellers, poets, actors, playwrights, potters and arts supporters that play in the life of New Mexico. Through December 10, works by the recipients are on view in the Governor’s Gallery in the State Capitol buildings, St. Francis Auditorium and New Mexico Museum of Art in Santa Fe.