Otero Arts Issues Call for Military Women Artists, Writers, Performers and Models for 2026 Veteran Arts Showcase

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. — Local military women — both active-duty service members and veterans — who create as visual artists, writers or performers are invited to apply for the 2026 Veteran Arts Showcase at Otero Artspace. The month-long exhibition and series of events, titled “Empowering Women Veterans Through the Arts,” will run throughout May 2026 and feature works and performances created by women connected to the U.S. military.

Otero Arts is also seeking 20 amateur models for a special photography project, “Portraits of Military Women,” whose images will be exhibited as part of the showcase.

How to apply or participate:

• Visual artists: Download the official application (PDF or Microsoft Word) and artist guidelines at the Otero Arts website: https://www.oteroarts.org/showcase.

• Writers and performers: Contact Showcase Coordinator Lori Arella directly at (845) 797-3642 or drloria@gmail.com.

• Amateur models for the “Portraits of Military Women” photo project: Also contact Lori Arella at the phone number or email above.

Application deadline is Friday, March 21, 2026.

All selected exhibits and performances will take place at Otero Artspace, 12th and Indiana (1118 Indiana Ave.), Alamogordo, NM 88310 (mailing address: PO Box 2252, Alamogordo, NM 88311). The gallery is normally open Thursday–Sunday, 1–4 p.m.

The program is supported in part by New Mexico Arts (a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs), the National Endowment for the Arts, and a generous grant from the Sacramento Mountains Foundation.

For general questions, email oteroartsinc@gmail.com or call the Artspace at 575-446-3880.

This women-focused edition of the annual Veteran Arts Showcase continues Otero Arts’ ongoing commitment to celebrating the creative diverse voices of the military community in the Tularosa Basin. Organizers say the May events will include an opening reception on First Friday, May 1, a Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop, an open mic, and a closing drum circle.

Military women artists and models are encouraged to apply soon — the March 21 deadline is just two weeks away.

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