Otero Arts Builds Toward October Showcase with Vibrant September Lineup

As the high desert light begins to soften into autumn, Otero Arts is preparing to unveil its most anticipated exhibition of the year: the Otero Artist Members Exhibition, opening October 3 and running through October 27 at the historic Woman’s Club.

But before the spotlight turns to October’s juried showcase, September offers a rich calendar of events that reflect the organization’s ongoing commitment to community, creativity, and cultural celebration.

Since launching monthly exhibitions in April 2022, Otero Arts has become a cornerstone of Alamogordo’s creative economy—offering local artists a platform to share their work, connect with audiences, and build lasting collaborations. September continues that tradition with a series of events designed to engage, inspire, and invite participation from both seasoned creators and emerging voices.

September Highlights

“Desert Echoes” by Linda Caperton

On view through September 21

Caperton’s mixed media landscapes explore the emotional resonance of desert spaces, blending texture, color, and memory. Her work invites viewers to reflect on the interplay between isolation and connection in the Southwest.

Community Art Salon & Open Mic

Friday, September 13, 6–8 PM

An informal evening of poetry, music, and visual art. Local creatives are encouraged to bring a piece to share—whether spoken word, acoustic performance, or a sketchbook in progress. Free and open to the public.

Youth Art Workshop: “Color & Story”

Saturday, September 14, 10 AM–12 PM

Led by Otero Arts educators, this hands-on session helps young artists (ages 8–14) explore storytelling through color and composition. Materials provided. RSVP required.

Artist Talk: “From Studio to Gallery” with Maria Aragon

Thursday, September 19, 5:30 PM

Maria Aragon, exhibition coordinator and juror, shares insights on preparing work for public display, navigating submission guidelines, and building a professional portfolio.

October Members Exhibition: Call for Artists

The Otero Artist Members Exhibition opens with a public reception on Friday, October 3 from 5–7 PM. This juried show will feature selected works from current Otero Arts members, offering a dynamic cross-section of 2D and 3D pieces that reflect the region’s artistic diversity.

Submission Guidelines:

• Artists may submit up to three pieces of 2D and/or 3D artwork

• Format: JPG, max 4MB, photographed without mats or frames

• Filename format: `LastName_Initial_Title_Medium.jpg`

• Dimensions:• 2D: max width 36” (including frame)

• 3D: include full measurements (length x width x height)

• Frames must have d-rings and wire; plastic frames not accepted

• New artists will be juried by the Exhibition Committee

• Submit entries to: oteroartsinc@gmail.com

Subject line: Submission for Oct. 2025 Members Exhibition

• Deadline: September 17

• Notification of acceptance: September 20

Note: Submitted work must not have been previously shown in any Otero Arts exhibition.

Questions may be directed to Maria Aragon at mariaaragon64@gmail.com.

A Cultural Milestone

The October exhibition isn’t just a gallery event—it’s a celebration of the creative pulse that runs through Alamogordo and Otero County. It’s a chance for artists to step into the spotlight, for residents to engage with local talent, and for the broader community to rally around the transformative power of the arts.

Whether submitting work, attending a September workshop, or simply stopping by to admire the latest installation, Otero Arts invites the public to be part of a movement that’s shaping the cultural future of Southern New Mexico.

Otero Arts exhibitions are open Thursday thru Sunday, free to the public 1 pm to 4 pm, at 1118 Indiana Avenue at 12th Street just a block from Alamogordo MainStreet district's Block 12.

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