Harwood Museum of Art | Taos

Harwood Museum of Art, located in Taos, New Mexico, is a premier cultural institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the artistic heritage of northern New Mexico. Housed in a historic adobe complex on Taos Plaza, the museum showcases Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo-American art, reflecting the region’s layered cultural and artistic traditions.

Historical Context

The museum was founded in 1923 by Alice Corbin Henderson and other patrons, with the goal of supporting the arts in Taos and providing a space to exhibit the work of local and regional artists. Named after Susan and Gerald Harwood, key benefactors whose collections helped shape the museum, it preserves both historic architecture and significant artworks from the Taos art colony and surrounding communities. The museum has long been a focal point for art appreciation, education, and cultural preservation in northern New Mexico.

Architecture and Setting

The Harwood Museum occupies a complex of historic adobe buildings, reflecting the architectural styles of the Taos region:

Adobe Construction: Thick earthen walls and flat roofs create the signature Southwestern aesthetic and maintain comfortable interior temperatures year-round.

Courtyards and Gardens: Shaded courtyards and small gardens provide serene spaces for contemplation and events.

Historic Interiors: Original wood beams, carved doors, and traditional plaster finishes create an authentic sense of place while serving as gallery spaces.

Intimate Gallery Spaces: The museum’s layout emphasizes close engagement with artwork, combining traditional and modern exhibition techniques.

The architecture complements the art, enhancing the visitor experience through a strong sense of regional identity.

Collections and Exhibits

The Harwood Museum’s collection spans multiple artistic traditions and periods, offering a comprehensive view of the Taos region’s cultural heritage:

Taos Art Colony Works: Paintings, sketches, and prints by artists such as E. Irving Couse, Oscar E. Berninghaus, and Bert Geer Phillips capture local landscapes, people, and cultural life.

Native American Art: Contemporary and historical works from Pueblo artists, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry, highlight craftsmanship and cultural expression.

Hispanic Heritage: Religious art, santos, retablos, and other devotional pieces reflect centuries of Hispanic tradition in northern New Mexico.

Modern and Contemporary Art: Rotating exhibitions feature regional artists, blending tradition with contemporary perspectives and experimentation.

Photography and Prints: Archival photographs and works on paper document the evolving culture and landscape of Taos and the surrounding region.

The museum emphasizes the interplay of cultures and artistic influences, offering visitors a rich narrative of northern New Mexico’s artistic evolution.

Visitor Experience

A visit to the Harwood Museum provides a multi-sensory immersion in art and history:

Gallery Exploration: Visitors can stroll through intimate gallery spaces, closely observing paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Educational Programs: Lectures, workshops, and guided tours deepen understanding of regional art and history.

Cultural Atmosphere: The adobe architecture, shaded courtyards, and natural light create a contemplative and inviting environment.

Seasonal Exhibitions: Rotating exhibits keep the museum dynamic, highlighting both historic works and emerging contemporary artists.

The museum encourages reflection, learning, and direct engagement with the rich cultural heritage of Taos.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

The Harwood Museum serves as a guardian of the region’s artistic legacy:

Preserving Artistic Traditions: Safeguarding works from the Taos art colony, Indigenous artists, and Hispanic craftspeople.

Educational Outreach: Promoting awareness and appreciation of regional arts through programs for visitors and local communities.

Cultural Integration: Demonstrating how Native, Hispanic, and Anglo-American influences intersect to shape Taos’ unique artistic identity.

Tourism and Inspiration: Drawing visitors to experience Northern New Mexico’s art and cultural heritage firsthand.

The museum functions as both a repository and living institution, connecting the past with contemporary creative expression.

Closing Impression

The Harwood Museum of Art offers an intimate and comprehensive glimpse into the artistic soul of Taos. Its historic adobe setting, diverse collections, and thoughtful exhibitions create an environment where culture, history, and art converge. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of the region’s creative legacy, from the Taos art colony to contemporary Indigenous and Hispanic expression, all set within the evocative high desert landscape of northern New Mexico.