Image courtesy of Corey Yazzie

For too long, the dominant society has romanticized, demonized and otherwise other-ized Native American human beings with overly simplistic, paternalistic and rigidly dualistic narratives rooted in genocidal notions and policies from centuries ago. These narratives have placed suffocating limits upon Native artists, who frequently feel pressure to be “authentic” within the definitions of “Indian-ness” created by this puerile narrative, or else risk being labeled “not Indian enough” by the non-Indian art collectors who expect and require exoticism. Blessedly, a new art exhibition, Nativesque, opening at OT Circus Gallery Friday, March 1, takes aim at this colonial hangover, allowing Native artists a welcoming space in which to just be fully human creatives, without limit or expectation. Curated by Joeseph Arnoux, this show kicks off with a free all-ages reception from 5 to 9pm, with food by Josh Nez and tunes by Beeso and Antro. (Alisa Valdes)

Shutterbugs gather up your best pieces and pick some to submit for hanging in the new Bernalillo County headquarters when the gov-peeps move to Alvarado Square, happening now until Monday, August 31. The selected photographs will be printed in a large scale and format. They will be used to create a welcoming environment for county customers, county employees and the general public. Some will be used on the windows of the new Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office suite. The photographs should represent the history and character of Bernalillo County and its people, places, landscapes and unique events in our county. There are some big bucks involved as chosen photographers will receive $1,500, with a limit of one photograph per artist. The chosen photos will become part of the public art program’s permanent collection. There is no fee or age limit required to submit. For more information, visit bernco.gov/community-services/current-call-for-entries.aspx. Ends August 31. (Carolyn Carlson)

City on the Edge is a breezy, smart podcast looking at the stories from Albuquerque history that have often been overlooked. Each episode takes a deep dive into a topic like the 1955 crash of TWA flight 260, Sandia Man or the 1918 quarantine. Worthwhile listening that will spur your curiosity about things you didn’t even know about in the city where you live. It’s free and available wherever you get your podcasts. (Clarke Condé)

Looking for a little chile? The 2020 Bosque Chile Festival, a celebration of food, art, and culture on the Rio Grande, is happening Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16, with times waiting to be officially announced. But due to COVID-19 and the State of New Mexico public health order, the festival will be presented virtually! There will still be entertainment, art activities, a virtual artisan market, chile-chef demonstrations, educational workshops and more. This free, all-ages event is meant to give those stuck at home a chance to see what the state has to offer. If you are a high-quality chile-inspired and authentic New Mexican business with an e-commerce website and want to be a vendor, there is still time. Applications are being accepted until Wednesday, August 5. For more information email bosquechilefestival@bernco.gov.