Today Mayor Tim Keller and the Department of Arts & Culture’s Public Art Urban Enhancement Division opened Fantastic Animals From Mexico: Alebrijes and Nahuales, a temporary touring exhibition of monumental sculptures inspired by the vibrant traditions of Mexican magical realism. Currently on a nationwide tour, the exhibition honors the extraordinary craftsmanship of Mexican artists while celebrating the richness and imagination of Mexico’s cultural heritage.
Part of Public Art’s City Brights program, Alebrijes and Nahuales will transform downtown Albuquerque with eight illuminated sculptures standing nearly 20 feet tall. Installed along Route 66 near the 8th Street roundabout, the exhibition will be on display through July 17, 2026, creating an experience both day and night.
“Today we celebrate how art connects people across borders, cultures and generations,” said Keller. “Albuquerque continues to invest in the arts because we know they strengthen community and our economy.”
“Fantastic Animals From Mexico: Alebrijes and Nahuales brings color and creativity to downtown Albuquerque,” said Arts & Culture Director Dr. Shelle Sanchez. “This exhibition is rooted in imagination, storytelling, and craftsmanship, and we are so pleased to share it in such a public way.”
The exhibition is curated by Romain Greco and features large-scale reproductions of original hand-carved wooden artworks created by acclaimed artists from across Mexico. Featured sculptures include:
● The Happy Alien by Constantino Blas.
● The Armadillo by Margarito Melchor.
● The Coyote by Efrain Fuentes.
● The Rabbit by Maria Jimenez.
● The Dog by Adrian Xuana.
● The LionBull by Leonardo Linares.
● The CatBird by Leonardo Linares.
● The CatNahual by Angelico Jimenez.
“This exhibition projects these fantastic characters to a colossal dimension through beautiful creations that will be admired in various areas of the USA, focusing on great masters of the genuine art from Oaxaca,” said Oaxaca State Museum of Popular Art Director Carlomagno Pedro Martínez.
In addition to the large installations, smaller-scale sculptures that inspired the larger works will be on display at City Hall offering visitors insight into the artistry and cultural traditions behind alebrijes and nahuales.
For more: www.cultureabq.com.
