By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper. – The Harwood Art Center is once again opening its doors to the full breadth of its creative community with Encompass, an annual, multi-generational art event that blends exhibitions, open studios and hands-on activities.
Running from March 5 through April 11, 2026, the exhibition series culminates in a free Community Celebration and Closing Reception on April 11 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., inviting the public to experience the space in its entirety.
For Jordyn Renteria, director of engagement at Harwood Art Center, the event stands apart because of how fully it activates the space.
“It’s our one event of the year where our entire building is activated,” says Renteria.
That activation is both literal and symbolic. Encompass features five exhibitions spread throughout the building, alongside open studios, student work and interactive art-making experiences. Visitors can move through galleries downstairs and upstairs, encountering work from established artists, emerging voices, and young students alike.
Kelsey Kilcrease (painting & table setting) & Enchanted Matter (hanging sculptures) (Photo by Aziza Murray)
This year’s theme, “Rituals of Practice & Memory,” reflects a broader curatorial approach that responds to both the moment and the community. “We try to follow what’s going on in the world and how our community is just kind of going through life,” says Renteria.
Renteria explains that past themes have ranged from grief following the pandemic to more playful and imaginative concepts. This year’s focus turns inward. “This one is like the rituals of practice and memory of what makes you and your identity,” says Renteria.
The theme is explored through the main invitational exhibition, which includes commissioned installations by artists such as Yarelis Alvarez, Jen H. Doolittle, Kelsey Kilcrease, Enchanted Matter and Denise Zubizarreta. Together, their work examines identity, memory and personal and cultural narratives.
In addition to the main exhibition, visitors can experience a solo show, Illuminated Whispers by Ereesa, as well as group exhibitions featuring Harwood staff, studio artists and students from both on-site and partner programs.
Renteria emphasizes that Encompass is not just about viewing art, but about engaging with the people who make it. “All the studios upstairs are open, and so people are invited to go into people’s studios and see their work, see their practice,” says Renteria.
With 31 artist studios open to the public, attendees have the opportunity to meet local artists, ask questions and even purchase work directly.
The event also includes a wide range of free, hands-on activities designed to make art accessible to all ages. These include flower crown making, face painting, live portraits and screen printing, alongside food vendors and live music.
That accessibility is central to Harwood’s mission, particularly its focus on being a multi-generational space. The organization offers programs for artists at every stage of life, from young children to retirees.
“It’s important for Harwood because all of our programs offer artistic opportunity to anyone of any age,” says Renteria.
This commitment is reflected throughout Encompass. Student work is displayed alongside professional artists, and younger visitors are encouraged to participate through interactive elements and activities designed specifically for them.
The result is an environment where creativity is not limited by age or experience, but instead shared across generations. “It’s really important for us to reflect that in all of our offerings, especially in this event,” says Renteria.
For those attending the closing celebration, the experience can vary depending on what they’re looking for. Art enthusiasts can deepen their connection to the local scene, while families can simply enjoy a free, creative outing.
“I think families can expect just like a fun day out that’s free with their kids,” says Renteria.
At its core, Encompass is both a reflection of Harwood’s community and an invitation into it. The hope, Renteria says, is that visitors leave feeling both seen and inspired. “I hope that they take away that art is for everyone.”
Renteria adds that the theme of identity and memory may resonate on a personal level for many viewers. “Maybe they see something that reminds them of their identity or their experience in life,” says Renteria.
And for some, the experience may go a step further, sparking their own creative impulse. “They might just get inspired to make something of their own,” says Renteria.
With its combination of exhibitions, artist interaction and hands-on participation, Encompass continues to serve as Harwood’s capstone event, bringing together the many layers of Albuquerque’s creative community under one roof.
Encompass
Harwood Art Center
1114 7th St. NW
Free!
March 5 – April 11, 2026
Thursday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Community Celebration/Closing Reception
April 11, 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.