Three Museums with Big Upgrades

Taos Art Museum at Fechin House. The former home and studio of Russia-born-artist Nicolai Fechin has expanded its exhibition capacity with the new Janis and Roy Coffee Gallery, a climate-controlled space for rotating exhibitions focused on Taos artists and the region’s artistic legacy. Through November, Land, Legacy and Perspective: Landscapes of Northern New Mexico features works by Ernest L. Blumenschein, Gene Kloss, and others. “The gallery gives us more opportunities to share works and perspectives that deepen our understanding of why Taos has drawn artists for generations,” says museum director Christy Coleman.

Wheels Museum. Albuquerque’s transportation history museum is expanding into a former welding shop within the city’s historic locomotive repair yards. The 5,000-square-foot expansion will create more space for model train displays, temporary exhibitions, educational programs, special events, and acquisitions. “With more than 10,000 items in current display, we are forced to turn down historic items and rare collections,” says president Leba Freed.  

Rex Museum. Gallup’s Rex Museum is moving most of its operations to Red Rock Park, just east of the city. At the 640-acre park, visitors can camp, hike, ride horses, and take in rotating exhibitions at its museum, says Alaina Noland, curator for the city of Gallup. In the meantime, see Art in Advertising, which examines fine art used in Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial posters, at the Gallup Museum at Red Rock Park through 2026.