Mother Road: The Spirit of Route 66 in New Mexico

Mother Road: The Spirit of Route 66 in New Mexico

Located in the Governor’s Gallery at the Capitol, Mother Road: The Spirit of Route 66 in New Mexico, commemorates the centennial founding of Route 66, one of the most influential highways in American history.  

On view are five mural designs inspired by not only the legacy of the historic highway but also landscapes, communities, and travelers whose stories helped define New Mexico’s identity. This exhibition is presented in conjunction with a newly commissioned mural in the lobby of the New Mexico History Museum.

A mural selection committee, comprised of jurors from within and outside the Department of Cultural Affairs, considered a total of one-hundred ninety applications submitted from an open call across the nation.

Featured in this exhibition are the top five ranking artists selected from the submissions: Gabriel Eng-Goetz, Michael Ferrarell, Brianna Gardocki, KEY DETAIL, and Molly Mendenhall. Each artist was invited to create a design proposal for a mural interpreting Route 66’s cultural and historical significance using their own creative lenses, offering unique perspectives on how the centennial mural can embody the spirit of Route 66 in both historical and contemporary terms.

On display through April 26, 2026

Public visiting hours are Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. 

Location: This exhibition is located in the Governor’s Gallery inside the New Mexico State Capitol Roundhouse building, 490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501.

Cost: Admission is FREE!