Los Lunas Museum Seeks Student Art Celebrating Route 66 Centennial

The Los Lunas Museum of Heritage & Arts wrapped up submissions March 14 for its 14th Annual Student Art Show, with work from Valencia County students 18 and under set to fill the museum's galleries from March 21 through May 9, 2026. The theme, "Route 66: Our Roots on the Route," marks the centennial of the historic highway that cut directly through this part of New Mexico.

Any original medium qualifies, provided the work engages the theme. The museum's call for entries listed acrylic, oil, pastel, watercolor, pen and ink, photography, ceramics, fibers, and mixed media as eligible formats. Abstract and non-representational works were also welcome, with the caveat that they still needed to connect to the Route 66 theme. Each student could submit up to three pieces.

Entries could be submitted digitally or as printed works, sent by mail, email, or dropped off in person at 660 Main Street in Los Lunas. Physical artwork had to arrive display or hanging ready by the March 14 deadline. Unlabeled photographs and storage devices faced automatic disqualification, and incomplete submission forms were not accepted.

Artists who choose to make their work available for purchase during the run of the show will see sold pieces remain on display through May 9; buyers cannot collect purchased works until after the show closes. Artists and teachers can begin picking up unsold pieces the week following May 12.

The exhibition opens March 21 at the Los Lunas Museum of Heritage & Arts, 660 Main Street. Anyone with questions can reach Louie Huning Jr. at huninglo@loslunasnm.gov, Owen Baca at bacao@loslunasnm.gov, or Monica Kemsley at mkemsley@loslunasnm.gov, or call the museum at 505-352-7720.