by Maria Manuela on
SILVER CITY HAS A LONG artistic history that has only been enhanced over the last decade by the evolution of the Southwest Print Fiesta. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the four-day bonanza of print-related talks, workshops, vendors, and activities is set to be the largest fest in its history. “We are really going for it this year,” says Kyle Durrie, organizer of the event and owner of Silver City–based Power and Light Press. “It’s going to be our best yet.” The small town’s hospitable vibe fits well with the medium’s artistic spirit, especially for those wanting to learn more about
the art form. “The community is welcoming,” Durrie says. “They’re willing to share their process and secrets.” Much of the programming, therefore, is designed to be accessible, hands-on, and engaging. “The intimacy is really important,” Durrie explains.
Off the wall. Catch legendary letterpress artist and activist Amos Paul Kennedy Jr. during his keynote at the Silco Theater on Friday, at the free drop-in workshop on Sunday, and throughout the weekend during an exhibition with Tender-Heart Press. “He’s a poster printer and rabble-rouser,” Durrie says. “He has a very good eye for language and color.”
Altar pieces. Los Angeles–based Kalli Arte Collective leads a free ofrenda workshop where attendees create collage-based memorial altars. “It’s going to be a participatory project,” Durrie says.
Block party. Publishing collective Cartonera Santanera’s two-day workshop demonstrates how found objects, such as a skateboard or tortilla press, can be turned into printmaking machines. “It’s an interesting deconstruction of what a press can be,” says Durrie, who notes that the presses are then used to create “cartonera books in the South American tradition based on using discarded cardboard boxes.”
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
October 3–11
During the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, October 3–11, early birds get rewarded with breakfast burritos, a drone show, and hundreds of brightly colored and special-shaped hot-air balloons. So set an alarm to arrive well before the 7 a.m. liftoff on mass ascension days (weather permitting). The festivities continue throughout each day with special-shape parades, remote-control balloons, live music, chainsaw art, food and art vendors, evening glows, and so much more high-flying fun.
Santa Fe International Film Festival
October 14–19
“There’s a special sauce, I guess,” says Santa Fe International Film Festival artistic director Jacques Paisner of last year’s 13 featured films that later garnered Oscar nominations, including Best Documentary Short Film winner All the Empty Rooms. This year’s festival, which runs October 14–19, features more than 200 films from over 100 countries. “Whether it’s a powerful performance or compelling writing or powerful skill coming from a director who’s a real artist, all of those things stand out and make it clear to myself and the other programmers that a film will be a hit.” santafe.film
Harvest Festival, Albuquerque
October 3–4
Catch a host of vendors, more than 20 musicians, and plenty of family fun at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden and Aquarium.
Xterra World Championship, Ruidoso
October 8–11
A huge welcome ceremony kicks off this extreme sports weekend, featuring a full-length triathlon, sprint triathlons, and a trail race in the Sierra Blanca mountain range.
Sierra County Fair, Truth or Consequences
October 8–11
Food vendors, live-stock shows, arts and crafts, and the crowning of the fair court make Truth or Consequences a family-fun center this weekend.
Red River Oktoberfest
October 9–11
Admire the fall colors, fill a stein with local craft beer, and compete in a bratwurst-eating contest.
Honoring Native Nations Powwow, Santa Fe
October 12
The Santa Fe Indigenous Center celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Day with traditional dances, drumming, and vendors on the Plaza.
Spirits of New Mexico, Santa Fe
October 23–24
Ghouls and ghosts make their presence known during this spooky weekend at El Rancho de las Golondrinas.
Los Alamos Halloweekend
October 30–November 1
Ghosts and goblins of all ages gather for trick-or-treating, a carnival, harvest festival, and more.