Eyes On Earth
Feb 1 - May 1, 2012
Far beyond the atmosphere of Earth, at orbits ranging from 290 to over 35,400 km (180 to over 22,000 miles) above sea level, circle the satellites of the Earth Observing System (EOS), NASA’s primary satellite mission. This small group of human-made scientific observers is constantly scanning our planet--tracking weather, monitoring pollution, creating maps, and gathering information that helps scientists predict storms, monitor forest fires, and study the holes in the ozone layer.
EYES ON EARTH, a highly interactive science exhibition, focuses on the EOS and examines how satellite observations are made and what we can learn about the Earth using space technology. Designed primarily for families and school groups (elementary through adults), visitors learn what a satellite is, discover the different types of orbits, and explore cutting-edge technology similar to that used by EOS scientists. EYES ON EARTH brings these concepts “down to earth” through a combination of fun, accessible interactives in a playful and “spacey” environment.
Raramuri: Runners of the Sierra Madre
October 13 – November 20, 2011
The Raramuri: Runners of the Sierra Madre provides visitors with an exclusive look into the lives of the reclusive Raramuri peoples, indigenous to the canyons of the Chihuahua’s Sierra Madre. The exhibit will explore the tribe’s distinct simple way of life and close connection with nature. The displays will take a deeper look into the expert traversing skills the people have acquired when crossing through tough terrain such as mountains and foothills, which completely gives a new meaning to the word “surefooted.” The photo exhibition will include their racing tradition, Semana Santa, Matachines, the planting and harvest, education, family and other aspects of daily life.
The exhibit directs itself towards raising consciousness about the important balance of lifestyle and habitat while furthering the understanding and appreciation for the unique and exceptional Raramuri tribe. Images will focus on the lifestyle and ritual that is unique to this tribe because of its limited exposure to modern developments, while also illustrating the visible effects occurring from increased contact with outsiders. This exhibit is a celebration of the lives and traditions of the Raramuri peoples of the Sierra Madre.
Diana Molina is scheduled to speak the opening of the exhibit on October 13 at 6pm.
Underground of Enchantment
Sept. 1 - Oct. 9, 2011
“Underground of Enchantment” is a 3D photo exhibit featuring the beautiful magic & microbial secrets of one of the most interesting caves in the world - Lechuguilla Cave in southeastern New Mexico.
Lechuguilla Cave is the deepest limestone cave (1597.4 ft/486.9m) in the USA & fifth longest cave in the world (128miles/206km). The cave holds a spectacular but fragile ecosystem which was cut off from the surface until 1986. To protect this system, entry into Lechuguilla is restricted to exploration & science.
The exhibit will feature 3D photography & image presentations by David De Roest, Michel Renda, Daniel Chailloux, Peter & Ann Bosted all remarkable photographers & outstanding cavers from Belgium, France & the United States.
Gosia Allison-Kosior, originally from Poland but in love with the surface & underground of the Land of Enchantment since 1995, is curating this important look at one of New Mexico’s best kept secrets.
Their feeling of being privileged & a need to share with others the experience of Lechuguilla Cave’s charm connected David, Ann, Peter, Daniel & Gosia. This was the moment when a dream about the exhibit was born!
Back to Top
2011 Festival of Quilts
June 16 - July 16, 2011
The annual Festival of Quilts is scheduled for Thursday, June 16 through Saturday, July 16 at the Western Heritage Museum Complex and Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame. The theme of the show for 2011 is Fiesta!It isa celebration of the rich historical significance of the Spanish influence on New Mexico.
What comes to mind when we say the word, Fiesta? Bright colors, beautiful patterns, sun, dancing, singing, and happy faces to be sure. Our quilters have incorporated these ideas into their “Community Quilt” which will be raffled during the show.
Awards will be given in the following categories:
Wall Hanging/Art Quilt, Wearable Art (must be quilted),
2010 Festival of Quilts Challenge (kits were pre-sold at the 2010 Festival of Quilts)
2011 Theme Quilt ― Fiesta!
Other Quilted items (pillows, table runners, etc.).
Back by popular demand is our 2nd annual Quilting 101 class (date is TBA), a free workshop that will give non-quilters an opportunity to learn more about the art of quilting.
For more information about the Festival of Quilts contact Mary Lyle at 575-492-2679 or by email at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
.
Back to Top
Annual Community Photography Show
The Community Photography Show will be from May 26 – June 12, 2011.
If you are interested in entering a photo into the show pleaseread the guidelines and fill out and attach the entry form to your entry. Make sure you fill out the form completely and bring it into the Museum by the deadline: 5pm Friday, May 20. All entries must have a WHITE matte and a simple BLACK frame no larger than 14”x 18”(including frame). The frame MUST have a hanging wire on the back. Photographers are not to be identified on the front of an entered image. A completed entry form shall be attached to the back of the entered image. There is a limit of two entries per photographer.
Good luck to all who enter and don’t miss your chance to come out and see the great photographers we have in the community.
Back to Top
District Wide Art Show
May 14 - 22, 2011
You won't want to miss the District Wide Art Show for Elementary Students Ribbon Winners.
The artwork will be on display at the Western Heritage Museum starting with a reception on May 14th at 1pm, and remain on display through May 22nd.
Come out and support our young artists from Hobbs Municipal Schools.
Back to Top
Historic Petroleum Stock Certificates from the Heinrich Wenning Collection
October 28 – November 23, 2010
The exhibition of the petroleum related stock certificates will be presented at the Western Heritage Museum Complex on the New Mexico Junior College Campus in Hobbs, New Mexico from October 28th through November 23th and will then be traveling to other museum venues within the region throughout next year.
The items being displayed are on loan from the volumous collection of Mr. Heinrich Wenning, of Cedar Crest, NM and span the history and development of the petroleum industry. The presentation includes some of the only known surviving certificates from the earliest stages of the creation of both the majors and minor oil companies especially related to Texas, California and the Southwest. There are some examples of letters and other archival materials that have become extremely significant from an historical perspective.
This is the first time these materials have been exhibited to the public and as Calvin Smith, Executive Director of the Western Heritage Museum Complex, stated, “This is a rare privilege to be able to put this show together in our area because it is the heritage of the oil and gas industry and we are most pleased that the Permian Basin Petroleum Association will be meeting here to see and enjoy this special offering”.
Back to Top
Cowboy Art & Ranch Photography
Russell G. Hill: Cowboy Art & Ranch Photography
September 9 – October 21, 2010
(The Copter Cowboy)
Russ has been flying helicopters for forty years. For thirty of those years he has been gathering cattle by helicopter on many of the largest ranches in West Texas, New Mexico and Arizona, working with the cowboys. This is how he picked up his flying name “The Copter Cowboy”. For thirty years he has taken pictures of the different ranches and the cowboys he has worked with. Even though some of these pictures were taken many years ago, they have never been shown. This is the first formal exhibit of his ranch photos.
“These photos are the only way I have to share with you what, where and who I work with. Every picture has a story behind it. Ranching and flying helicopters is a great way of life. I am a lucky guy to be able to do what I do for a living.” – Russ.
Back to Top
4th Annual Community Photography Show
May 27 – June 11, 2010. This amateur photography show is open to the public, both students and adults. Photographers choose one or two of their favorite/best pictures to display in the Museum gallery. This show is juried and prizes are given to the winners. The Best of Show is the highest rating that one photo/photographer can receive and that photo will be displayed for one year in the Museum. Please check back as the date draws closer for more information on entering a photograph. The 2009 Show was even bigger than the previous one and thanks to Photography Show Chairman, David Jett and Photography Show Prize Chairman, Brian Henning the show went up and ran smoothly. The 2009 Show featured over 40 amateur photographers who competed in several categories which included still life, architecture, nature, and people. The best in show prize went to a nature photo of a hummingbird drinking nectar with a drop of the juice suspended in the air taken by Bob Allen – quite a wonderful shot! 2010 Guidelines
Back to Top
District Wide Art Show
District Wide Art Show – Elementary Students
May 14 - 22, 2011
You won't want to miss the District Wide Art Show for Elementary Students Ribbon Winners.
The artwork will be on display at the Western Heritage Museum starting with a reception on May 14th at 1pm, and remain on display through May 22nd.
Come out and support our young artists from Hobbs Municipal Schools.
Back to Top
Water's Extreme Journey
Feb. 1 – May 2, 2010
Water’s Extreme Journey was developed with a focus on creativity by renowned marine life artist Wyland. The exhibit combines the worlds of art and science to demonstrate the importance of water and how it connects us all. Through exploration, scientific inquiry, artistic expression, and action, visitors will experience the water cycle, understand the science behind water purity, and realize the power each individual has to make a difference.
The exhibit includes a themed game Water’s Extreme Journey Maze, which transforms visitors into a drop of water entering a watershed, sending them on a journey through different watershed habitats including lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, estuaries, bays, and oceans. Students will also have the opportunity to become science sleuths in the Investigation Science Center. Following the steps of the scientific method, visitors will conduct their own hands-on investigation of water properties and quality.
Back to Top
2009 Exhibits
Fall Photography Show
Nov. 17 – Dec. 4, 2009
A little different from our annual Spring Photography Show, this Fall Show will showcase pieces from the fall semester photography classes at NMJC. Students will be able to display their favorite pieces in the Museum gallery where visitors can admire them. This show will not be juried. Make plans to see this relaxed, wonderful show. Nov. 17 – Dec. 8, 2009.
Cowgirls Exhibit
Sept. 13 - Nov. 22, 2009
The word “cowboy” invokes images of the indomitable man on horseback. But what do we know of the cowgirl? COWGIRLS:
COWGIRLS documents the daily challenges, professional triumphs, and personal tenacity shared by the women who run cattle or ride broncs and bulls. From the competitive grit of the rodeo circuit and the exhausting demands of cattle ranching to the intimate bond they share with their animals, modern cowgirls call to mind the independence, fortitude, and incomparable vigor demonstrated by women who endured the hardships and challenges of life on the American frontier.
During the three years she spent capturing these evocative portraits, Farley found the cowgirls to be “distinct, impressive, and unforgettable.”
2009 Festival of Quilts
Opened June 18 and will continue until July 11
Liberty on the Border - A Civil War Exhibit
January 29, 2009 - May 9, 2009
This innovative exhibit invites visitors to experience the American Civil War by examining concepts of "borders" by looking at the way borders were drawn and perceived before, during, and after the war. Visitors will be able to develop a deeper comprehension of the different and sometimes contentious meaning of personal "liberty".
Back to Top
2008 Exhibits
Wonders of the Weavers
January 18 - March 15, 2008
Nineteeth century Rio Grande textiles
assembled over a 26-year period by
the Albuquerque Museum. These beautiful examples of Hispanic weaving
graced the Western Heritage Museum Complex walls with amazing color and texture.
Second Annual NMCJ / Hobbs High School Western Heritage Museum Photography Show
April 12 - May 3, 2008
Photographers from NMJC and the Hobbs High School staff and students competed for top honors in this second annual event.
A total of sixty-four photographs in the categories of Landscape, Nature, People, Macro, Architecture/Transportation, and Computer Manipulated were displayed for viewers' appraisal.
The Museum would like to recognize those who have supported and put effort into this imaginative event. Organizers include Brian Henning, David Jett, and Calvin Smith. Sponsors include Wells Fargo Bank, Hobbs Municipal Schools, Lea County State Bank, Kim's Kakes, Forest Tire, 1st National Bank, Sadler and Son, and Permian Ford.
2008 Festival of Quilts / Windmills of Our Lives Exhibit
May 22 - June 7, 2008
May 22 - 24 during the 2008 Festival of Quilts, area artisans were able to display their crafts and gather to hear speakers, including:
-
TEXTile Messaging - New Mexico Art Quilters
-
Art Quilts - Albuquerque and Santa Fe
-
Featured Speaker/Teacher - Debbie Caffrey, author of "Can of Worms"
Many beautiful handmade quilts were on
display for the festival as well as the Windmills of our Lives
Exhibit through June 7.
Indelible (P)ink: The Pink Panther and Popular Culture
June - August 31, 2008
Movie, music and cartoon were the summer theme. This exhibition, featuring forty-four original animation cells with accompanying drawings recently acquired by the Daura Gallery, was a blast from the past, spying on the Pink Panther as an example of popular culture while uncovering his contributions to 20th century animation.
While Pink Panther was at the Complex, related activities have included a chance July 23 to meet Hobbs' own Carla Curry, who has extensive experience in the Hollywood film industry. Her credits include: Pink Panther 2, Walk the Line, Friday Night Lights, The Alamo, Tombstone, Major League, and Children of the Corn IV.
After Curry's presentation, the Western Heritage Museum Complex hosted a very special Pink Panther film presentation,
June 14 was Dollar Day and on June 17 the Complex hosted “Move that Drawing; A look inside the cartoon biz with Rex Barron.” Barron, former film animator, worked for film and television productions including The Lord of the Rings, Starchaser, Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, and The Pink Panther. At the Western Heritage Museum Complex, he instructed children ages 10 – 16 in the art of character design and motion. Participants in the day-long workshop developed artistic and animation skills by applying lines of design into action.
Rio Grande ¡Bravo! The Panoramic Photography of Jon M. Smith
September 13, 2008
The Panoramic Photography of
Jon M. Smith
This exhibit, on display through December 2008, features the Panoramic Photography of Jon M. Smith, a former Hobbs resident.Mr. Smith’s unique photography invites the viewer to share his journey along the Rio Grande. The large 30”x90” images are stunning---it’s almost like being there.
Come see the Rio Grande River as it travels through canyons, irrigation systems, gorges, and urban communities! Smith’s panoramic photography illustrates how the Rio Grande has impacted civilization and how civilization has impacted the river.
Mr. Smith gave a lecture on panoramic photography techniques at the museum Tuesday, October 14.
Back to Top
2007 Exhibits
Home Town Christmas - Christmas Tree Forest
November 18 - December 15, 2007
Family Night at the Museum - December 4, 2007
Two hundred people enjoyed an evening of caroling, movies, family photos, story time, and Christmas cheer. People’s Choice Award was presented to Sam Spencer of Lea County State Bank.
Desert Soliloquy
October 29 - November 10, 2007
A photographic experience presenting a 14-year study and effort by Calvin Smith to set the Mescalero Sands aside as a National Outstanding Natural Area. It included an ecological record of the flora and fauna of a unique region that encompassed the capture and release of two Sandhill Whitetail deer and the identification of the Sand Dune Lizzard which is now considered a special species and possibly endangered.
Curtis Fort & Danny Stevens - Two Views of Life on the Llano
Reception: October 29
Exhibit: October - November 3.
Talented men with sculpture and photography - a welcome sight any time.
Playa - Gems of the Plains
September 12 - October 13, 2007
This exhibit was all wet … lands that is. Students and visitors participated in hands-on art and science activities.
Do You Remember?
July 27 - August 31, 2007
In the center gallary were photos of Hobbs, Lovington, Jal, and Eunice. They sent memory lane on a puzzle of “who are you and what were you doing?”
Making a Hand: Ranch Children of New Mexico
July 7 - August 31, 2007
The opening reception welcomed Gene Peach the photographer as well as such subjects of his photos as Tuffy Cooper from Lea County
Back to Top
