La Acequia, Nuestra Madre
Art and history of New Mexican waterways
Opening:
May 2nd, from 5PM to 7PM
Exhibit:
May 3rd - August 30th
The Millicent Rogers Museum is proud to present La Acequia, Nuestra Madre: Art and History of New Mexican Waterways, a powerful exhibition exploring water stewardship through the voices of contemporary New Mexican artists. Co curated by artist Toby Morfin and Claire Pelaez Motsinger, this exhibition brings together artists whose creative practices are deeply intertwined with care for the land.
About the Exhibition
Rooted in Indigenous traditions of water gathering and distribution, the acequia system is a network of communal irrigation ditches and headgates that sustain agriculture across the region. More than a method of irrigation, acequias represent a living cultural system shaped by centuries of history. Their origins trace through Moorish Spain, Spanish colonization, and later United States governance, forming a layered narrative of adaptation, resilience, and community.
At its core, the acequia is a shared responsibility. It reflects a collective commitment to land, water, and each other. Generations of parciantes, or water rights holders, have maintained these systems, ensuring the survival of both crops and culture.
A Living Tradition at Risk
Today, this centuries old way of life faces significant challenges. Climate change, prolonged drought, and reduced snowfall threaten water availability. At the same time, development pressures and changing land use patterns have led to the loss of agricultural land.
Despite these challenges, advocates and community members continue to defend acequia traditions with determination. Their work to educate, organize, and sustain awareness is vital to preserving this cultural and ecological heritage.
Artists in the Exhibition
Through diverse artistic practices, participating artists honor the lifeways of the acequias and celebrate the communities that sustain them.
Artists include:
- Floyd Archuleta
- Luis Barela
- Erin Currier
- Steve Chavez
- Jodie Herrera
- Nicholas Herrera
- Steven Katzman
- Juanita J. Lavadie
- Felix Lopez
- Krissa Lopez
- Joseph A. Lopez
- Huberto Maestas
- Toby Morfin
- Jody Naranjo
- Michael Naranjo
- Marcella Pacheco
- Roxanne Swentzell
- Jim Vogel
Programs and Events
Opening Reception
Saturday, May 2
5 PM to 7 PM
Free and open to the public
Film Screening
Acequias: The Legacy Lives On
May 30
Taos Center for the Arts
Supporters
This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and collaborators. The Millicent Rogers Museum extends sincere thanks to:
Taos County Lodgers Tax
Sangre de Cristo Acequia Association
Taos Valley Acequia Association
Des Montes Art Gallery