Susan Luna spent several months last year traveling around New Mexico, photographing African-American families. She snapped shots of them in their churches, schools and homes to create a portrait of the Black community across the state. Starting in February, her artwork will be on display at the African American Performing Arts Center and Exhibit Hall at Expo New Mexico to celebrate Black History Month.
The performing arts center is a new addition to Albuquerque's art community, opening last June after six years of fundraising and legislative appropriations. And it’s growing strong. Program Manager Donald Jordan says the facility received an average of 150 visitors a month last year and continues to expand its audience. In less than a year, the center has become a cultural hub for the African-American community in New Mexico, showcasing art exhibits and hosting music and dance performances that, according to Jordan, will "preserve the culture and history of African-Americans."
The African American Performing Arts Center and Exhibit Hall is located at the Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds (310 San Pedro NE). The center can be reached at 222-0777.
