January 2026 - It’s Come and Gone

As January draws to a close, I'm reminded of Picasso's words: "The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls." This month has been a tough one for me—the anniversaries of my Mom and my Brother-in-Law's passing, and my Godfather's birthday, who left us just over a year ago. The national news has been dismal, and I've found myself retreating to my art studio, where creating has become a place of solace.

See all of the fun art things happening in my life below—but first, read about an experience I would love for you to support. If you care about the arts, wildlife, conservation, education, or all of the above, this is a program worth showing up for.

Artist in Residence

Donate HERE (please designate “Artist in Residence - Hermosa” when asked what should this donation go towards. - Thank YOU!

Artist in Residence - In Summer 2026, Natural Curiosity—a New Mexico–based nonprofit dedicated to conservation through education, research, and edu-tourism—will continue its artist-in-residency program in Hermosa, supporting a BIPOC artist whose work engages with place, ecology, and the living landscape. Donations help provide housing, materials, and uninterrupted time for an artist to fully immerse themselves in the ecosystem and a create work that uplifts underrepresented voices in the outdoor arts. Your support ensures this meaningful, place-based residency can continue, rooted in community and care for the land we share.

BLUE at The Groove Artspace - I am honored to have two pieces included in The Groove Artspace February exhibition, BLUE. This group show invites artists to explore the color blue and the emotion it evokes. Open to all media and sizes, the show highlights works that capture the many shades, moods, and meanings of blue. With The Groove's motto of "Art for Everyone," their spacious gallery will showcase pieces by New Mexico artists. Join the community for the opening reception and immerse yourself in the depth and variety of blue—from serene to melancholic, from vibrant to contemplative.
Join us for the Opening Reception:
Friday, February 6, 5 - 9 PM
The Groove Artspace, 309 Gold Ave SW in Downtown Albuquerque - https://www.thegrooveartspace.com/blue

Fun-A-Day at Fourteenfifteen Gallery - The daily practice of making art throughout January culminates in a huge group exhibition at FOURTEENFIFTEEN Gallery and Alpaca, located at 1415 4th St SW in Albuquerque. Artists and "non-artists" alike were invited to jump-start the new year with the art of daily practice—whether sketching, sewing, documenting, walking, etching, collecting, assembling, writing, embroidering, sculpting, recording, cooking, filming, printing, or painting. I participated this year, and my work will be among the resulting artworks from this month-long creative journey on display in February.

Join us for the Opening Reception:
Friday, February 6, 6 - 9 PM
Fourteenfifteen Gallery, 1415 4th St SW, Albuquerque

Dulce River Bakery - Yolanda Howren Jones and I are excited to once again have our mixed-media artwork on display at Dulce River Bakery. Located at 4405 Jager Drive NE in Rio Rancho, this cozy bakery becomes a space where art and community come together. While enjoying freshly baked treats and rich coffee, you’ll find bold, colorful pieces celebrating strong women, lush florals, and meaningful connections to nature. It’s a beautiful place to slow down, enjoy something delicious, and experience art in a welcoming setting. Tell them the artists sent you!

Chicky’s Coffee - The best holiday gift, in my caffeinated opinion, is coffee—specifically, Chicky’s Coffee at 240 South Camino Del Pueblo, Suite A, Bernalillo, NM. Please visit Shari, Deanza, and Scott for some delicious coffee (Guatemala Blend is my favorite), pastries, and stunning art. Truly, art decorates every corner of Chicky’s, creating a visual feast for the eyes. Tell them Leslie and Rick sent you! Stop by or order online HERE.

Patrician Design - I’m so grateful to everyone who has taken the time to stop in and spend a moment with my work—thank you for the support. If you’re feeling inspired to treat yourself or find something meaningful for someone else, I highly recommend visiting Patrician Design at 216 Gold Ave SW in Albuquerque. This beautiful boutique gallery features fine art, handcrafted jewelry, pottery, wearable art, and unique treasures created by incredibly talented New Mexican artists. It’s a special place to discover art with heart and intention.

Please stay warm during these cold winter days, and find your own quiet places of comfort. I’m grateful to be able to share my art with such a thoughtful, supportive community. Whether you see my work in person, follow along online, or simply take a moment to read my newsletter, thank you for being part of my journey.

Cheers,

Leslie