The very words "New Mexico landscape" immediately conjure up a mental image of other-worldly beauty. But the mind's eye of each person may see an entirely different picture, for there are as many interpretations of this scenic treasure as there are artists to paint it. This lavish book, the fifth in the New Mexico Artist Series, presents more than fifty artists whose styles run the gamut from impeccable realism to interpretive abstraction. The unifying theme is the light on the land, and the abiding message is that there are unlimited ways to observe and appreciate it.
The history of landscape painting in New Mexico comes vividly to life in this book, as does a sure feel for the current art scene. Profiles of the great names in the field, as well as some very interesting discoveries among emerging artists, provide the reader with an exciting overview of this popular subject.
Suzan Campbell is an independent art historian and curator who specializes in art of the Southwest.