The Tour
Header images by Jesse Fisher (top) & Mario Manzo
Tour History & Stop Info
2026 dates TBD
-
About Abiquiú
-
Historic Local Geography
-
Background & Ettiquette
Nestled along the Río Chama, Abiquiú, New Mexico is a place of profound cultural significance, where the land itself holds the stories of those who have called it home. This region has long been a meeting ground of many cultures, creating a layered history that continues to shape its present. At the heart of Abiquiú’s identity is its deep connection to the Tewa and Native American people, whose ancestors cultivated the land and built thriving communities along these river valleys. Later, the Genízaro community—descendants of Indigenous peoples taken captive and integrated into Spanish colonial society—formed one of the last official land grants in 1754. Today, their descendants maintain a strong presence, preserving traditions, language, and a resilient spirit that defines Abiquiú’s unique character.
The land itself, with its dramatic cliffs, shifting mesas, and vast skies, has long been a source of inspiration. The blending of Native, Spanish, and later Anglo-American influences is evident in the adobe architecture, sacred traditions, and the vibrant artistic expression that continues to flourish. It is this interplay of cultures, shaped by history and the natural world, that makes Abiquiú a place like no other—a place where past and present are always in conversation.
Whether through art, community gatherings, or the quiet power of its landscapes, Abiquiú remains a testament to the beauty of cultural exchange and the enduring legacy of those who have walked this land before us.
Abiquiú village is well-known internationally as the home of the renowned painter Georgia O’Keeffe who made it her permanent home. Visitors who come to tour her house in the village also visit nearby Ghost Ranch, where she had a second home and studio. The dramatic landscape that inspired her artistry has continued to attract a steadily growing community of traditional and contemporary artists.
The range and quality of the artworks, the diverse scenery, and the welcoming atmosphere have made the Abiquiú Studio Tour one of the most well-attended and successful events of its kind. Experience the unique artistry of the region and explore the local fall color at this annual event. Abiquiú is located on US Highway 84, about one hour’s drive from Santa Fe or Taos.
Local insight:
In Valley of Shining Stone, The Story of Abiquiú Lesley Poling-Kempes, © 1997 by the University of Arizona Press. This engaging book tells the story and history of Abiquiú, Georgia O’Keeffe in Abiquiú, the Chama Valley, Ghost Ranch, and Piedra Lumbre (Shining Stone) from prehispanic days through the present.
In 'Ghost Ranch', University of Arizona Press (September 1, 2005), Lesley Poling-Kempes tells the story of the celebrated Ghost Ranch conference and retreat center in Abiquiú. She traces its transformation from el Rancho de los Brujos, a hideout for legendary outlaws, to a renowned cultural mecca and one of the Southwest’s premier conference centers. First, a dude ranch, Ghost Ranch became a magical sanctuary where the veil between heaven and earth seemed almost transparent. Focusing on those who visited from the 1920s and ’30s until the 1990s, Poling-Kempes tells how O’Keeffe and others—from Boston Brahmin Carol Bishop Stanley to paleontologist Edwin H. Colbert, Los Alamos physicists to movie stars—created a unique community that evolved into the institution that is Ghost Ranch today."
Lesley Poling-Kempes is also the author of The Harvey Girls: Women Who Opened the West and a novel about the Abiquiú region, Canyon of Remembering. She has lived in the Abiquiú region for more than thirty years.
The geography of Abiquiú, New Mexico, is as breathtaking as it is diverse, shaped by millions of years of geological forces and adorned with dramatic landscapes that have captivated inhabitants and visitors alike. This region, nestled in the Rio Chama Valley, is a tapestry of mesas, canyons, and vast desert expanses, where layers of red, gold, and white formations reveal the passage of time.
At the heart of Abiquiú’s landscape is the Chama River, a vital waterway that has sustained human life and agriculture for centuries. The river carves through the land, nourishing cottonwood bosques, creating a rare ribbon of lush greenery in the high desert. The surrounding terrain is a striking contrast of arid plateaus, towering rock formations, and volcanic remnants, forming an ever-changing panorama of textures and hues.
To the north, the rugged Abiquiú Reservoir reflects the sky in brilliant shades of blue, offering a tranquil oasis for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The reservoir, formed by a dam on the Chama River, is bordered by sandstone cliffs, mesas, and the iconic Cerro Pedernal—a flat-topped mountain that dominates the horizon—stands as a spiritual sentinel over the land. This landmark, famously painted by Georgia O’Keeffe, is rich with spiritual significance and is known to the Tewa people as a sacred place. Beyond Pedernal, the Jemez Mountains rise in the distance, their volcanic origins shaping the dramatic backdrop of the region.
Above the river valley, the landscape shifts into the high desert terrain of Ghost Ranch, where multicolored cliffs, narrow arroyos, and towering rock spires create an otherworldly beauty. This area, part of the Colorado Plateau, is home to significant paleontological discoveries, with fossils dating back to the Triassic period, offering a glimpse into a prehistoric world.
Abiquiú’s geography is a testament to the forces of nature and the passage of time. Whether through the play of light on sandstone cliffs or the vast openness of the sky above, the landscape continues to inspire those who walk its trails and gaze upon its vistas.
Abiquiú Studio Tour History
Experience the magic of Abiquiú like never before! Every October, Abiquiú artists warmly invite you to explore their creative sanctuaries during the Abiquiú Studio Tour. This self-guided driving expedition unveils the artistic treasures nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Northern New Mexico, where the majestic Chama River Valley meets the historic village of Abiquiú.
Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of artistic expression against the backdrop of golden cottonwood trees, awe-inspiring mountain vistas, and captivating geologic wonders. Discover the heart and soul of Abiquiú's vibrant art scene as you connect with both established and emerging artists, forging friendships and creating memories that last a lifetime.
Since 1994, the Abiquiú Studio Tour has been curated with passion and dedication by the Abiquiú Arts Council, a dynamic 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Composed entirely of volunteers, the AAC is dedicated to fostering art education initiatives and curating iconic art events that showcase the artistic and cultural heritage of Abiquiú, New Mexico.
Join us on this extraordinary journey, where creativity knows no bounds and the spirit of artistic exploration thrives. The legacy of the Abiquiú Studio Tour is a testament to the unwavering commitment and vision of the AAC's Board and volunteer artist members, ensuring that each year's tour is a celebration of artistry, inspiration, and community.
Complimentary maps are available at all the studios and Abiquiu local businesses during the tour.
NOTE: Some studios are located on unimproved dirt roads that can be rough and/or steep and muddy when wet. Sturdy vehicles are recommended. Drive cautiously and at your own risk.
Abiquiú Village Etiquette
When visiting the historic village of Abiquiú area (located up the hill, across the street from Bode's General Store), park in designated areas only and do not venture beyond public points.
No commercial photography is allowed without permits
Courtesy and respect for valued cultures are most appreciated, especially in areas surrounding pueblos, churches, and burial sites.
Mission Statement
The Abiquiú Arts Council fosters a vibrant and inclusive arts community in Northern New Mexico by supporting local artists, preserving cultural traditions, and promoting creative expression. Through events like the Abiquiú Studio Tour and Abiquiú Gathering of Artisans, we connect artists with the public, enrich the cultural landscape, and celebrate the unique history and spirit of Abiquiú.
-
Artist Stops
-
Galleries
-
Food Stops
Stop # 1 (2 days)
Queen Bee Stained Glass by Liz Manzanares
Manzanares Woodworks by Raul Manzanares
Stop # 2 (3 days)
Judith McSweeney
Tara McSweeney
Stop # 3 - Raven in the Sun (3 days)
Jaye Buros / Raven in the Sun Gallery
Bill Paige
Stephanie Fall
Stop # 4 - Rural Events Center Co-op Building (3 days + food vendor)
Jim Baker
Lisa B. Baker – Spirit Animals, The Sacred Within
Leah Hardy
Mark E Ritchie, Printmaking / Drawing / Book Art
Stop # 5
debra fritts, studio one thirty nine
frank shelton, studio one thirty nine
Stop # 6 - Dar al Islam at Plaza Blanca (2 days + food vendor)
Andrew Furse, printmaker
Catherine Rinaldo Pottery
Donn Blackmore
Gary Pikarsky
Isaac AlaridPease
Jamil Lutz
Paula Narbutovskih
Samia van Hattum, Ceramics & Mixed Media
Sasha Barrionuevo
Sean G. Clark
Taslim van Hattum, Abiqutie
Vanessa Harris, Handwoven rugs, scarves, & jewelry
Stop # 7 - Café Sierra Negra (2 days + food vendor)
Natalie Simon
Stop # 8 (2 days + food vendor)
Colorworks
Janeen Singer Studio
Rio Arts
Stop # 9 (3 days) - THIS STOP IS CANCELLED
Sly Dog Studio – David Gulisano
Stop # 10 - Purple Adobe Lavender Farm Teahouse & Gift Shoppe (3 days)
Stop # 11 - Abiquiu Inn (3 days + food vendor)
Marcie Coronado, Nature's Beauty Jewelry
Jo Gordon, Casa Blanca de Luz
Stop # 12 (3 days)
Maura Allen
Stop # 13 - The Barn, in the Bode's parking lot (2 days)
lisa neimeth ceramics
Stop # 14 - Bosshard Gallery (3 days)
Stop # 15 - Parish Hall (2 days)
Dain Daller, Weaver, The Warp Zone
Andrea Beane, Mixed Media Textile Artist
Angela C. Miller, Embroidery, crochet, & jewelry
Christelle Burns, La Chapeliere
Helen Byers Fine Art & Illustration
Kate Jacobsen Studio
Sophie N. Garcia, Traditional Spanish Colonial Retablos
Stop # 16 - Santos of New Mexico, Charles M & Debbie B Carrillo (3 days + baked goods)
Santos of New Mexico, Charles M & Debbie B Carrillo
Ursula M. Luchetti-Jordan
Boxed Bakery at Santos of NM, Small Batch Baking by Nina Armijo
Stop # 17 - Nest Gallery (3 days)
Nest Gallery, Tamara Kay
Zach Hively, Casa Urraca Press
Stop # 18 (3 days)
Carol Martinez
Louie Martinez
Stop # 19 (3 days) - THIS STOP IS CANCELLED
Yvonne Westbrook, ceramics
Stop # 20 (3 days)
Armando Adrian-Lopez
Stop # 21 - Las Parras de Abiquiu (3 days + food vendors)
Arin Bader
Sarah Grenzeback
Stan Bader
Studio Rama Seca High Desert Fiber | Folk Art
Weavings by Shiri, Rio Grande Textiles
Stop # 22 - Abiquiú Dome Gallery & Shop (3 days + 2-day food vendor)
Abiquiú Dome Gallery & Shop
Becca Fisher, High Desert Art & Flora
Connie B. Burkhart at Abiquiú Dome
Abiquiú Dome - Gallery & Shop - Stop # 22 (3 days)
An iconic adobe dome structure & gallery shop on Hwy 84. It is the studio/gallery of studio tour metal design artist, Connie B. Burkhart, and other local artists & artisans. The gallery is curated and managed by her daughter, Becca Fisher. Open seasonally, May - October, Fri - Sun. Visit: www.abiquiudome.com Email: info@abiquiudome.com Social: @abiquiudome
Abiquiu Inn - Galleries & Sculpture Garden - Stop # 11 (3 days)
Visit the upstairs gallery or the main salon café gallery featuring studio tour artists. Stroll the sculpture garden at the Abiquiu Inn, showcasing 20 works from notable artists, exhibited in a park-like setting. Visit www.abiquiuinn.com to learn more.
Bosshard Gallery - Stop # 14 (3 days)
Art and antiques from around the world and the southwest in a historic adobe compound across from the O'Keeffe Home. (505) 685-0061
Nest Gallery - Stop # 17 (3 days)
Features the work of studio jeweler Tamara Kay (www.tamarakayjewelry.com) and beautifully curated artisan-created objects. www.abiquiunest.com (505)685-1116
Jaye Buros / Raven In The Sun - Stop # 3 (3 days)
Figurative and plein air paintings, collage, and jewelry. (505) 685-4159 jnb36@valornet.com
Santos of New Mexico, Charles M & Debbie B Carrillo - Stop # 16 (3 days)
Santos & Retablos Painting. charles.carrillo.4810@gmail.com (505) 685-4669
Other galleries that are outside of the tour boundaries but will be open during the tour:
Food at Studio Tour map stops:
Stop 4 - Rio Arriba Cooperative Extension Building (3 days)
Vigilante Pizza Truck - Healthy, Clean Ingredients, Wood-Fired Pizza, Española, NM
Stop 6 - Dar al Islam at Plaza Blanca (2 days)
Kohinoor Pop Up Kitchen - Middle Eastern, Afghan, Kebabs, Breakfast, Mediterranean
Stop 7 - Café Sierra Negra (2 days)
Local café, beer & wine
Stop 8 - (2 days)
Rock Star Kitchen - Fresh Gyros, Falafel Sandwiches, & Salads
Stop 11 - Abiquiu Inn (3 days)
Café Abiquiu at the Abiquiu Inn - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, wine, beer, drinks
Stop 16 - Santos of New Mexico (3 days)
Boxed Bakery at Santos of NM, Small Batch Baking by Nina Armijo
Stop 21 - Las Parras de Abiquiu (3 days)
- Horno cooked bread & empanadas by Las Parras de Abiquiu
- Abiquiu Volunteer Fire Department serving wood oven pizza & coffee drinks
Stop 22 - Abiquiú Dome Gallery & Shop (2 days)
Bz Acai Food Truck - Blendz & Bowlz
Other food options in Abiquiú:
Bode's Mercantile - groceries, gas, hold/cold case to-go foods, restrooms
Mamacita's Pizza - NY-style pizza and sandwiches
Abiquiú Studio Tour 2025 Interactive Map
Our Sponsors
Sponsors
-
No Title
~ CERRO PEDERNAL ~
Abiquiu Inn
Located along the ancient Rio Chama, just north of Santa Fe & southwest of Taos, Abiquiú Inn is a unique thirty-room Inn & Café in Abiquiú, New Mexico. Secluded & rustic, the Inn is nestled in the Chama Valley, alluring painters & adventurers alike who are looking for a place to relax & dine amongst some of the region's best canyons & lakes.
Website: abiquiuinn.com
Dar al Islam
Dar al Islam is a non-profit organization dedicated to being a preeminent land-based North American Islamic institution facilitating inclusive learning, spiritual contemplation, and thought leadership for Muslims and the larger community. Since 1979, Dar al Islam has provided Muslims and non-Muslims with an array of opportunities to learn more about Islam and engage in land-based spiritual contemplation. Dar al Islam creates space for communities to gather, reflect, pray, and learn in the sweeping desert landscape of Abiquiu, New Mexico, in a historic architectural complex. Join us for a transformative experience.
Website: daralislam.org
~ RIO CHAMA ~
An education and retreat center where ancient earth, creative spirit, and sacred landscape converge
Century Bank
The bank of choice in the communities we serve, Española, NM
Helen Gray
•·················•·················•
~ ENTRADA ~
Abiquiu News
Arroyo Seco Animal Hospital
Birgitte Ginge
Bode’s
Colorworks
Constance & Dennis Liddy
Dancing in the Desert
Fernando & Maria Bayardo
J Amber Archer
Jack E Cox & Edwin H Light D.M.A.
Colorworks
Janet Harrington
John Bosshard
Rancho de Chimayo
Rio Chama Chevron
Teresa McClure
•·················•·················•
~ FRIENDS ~
Carol Moran
Don McPheron
Jamie Taylor
Jo & Ramey Douglas
Mike & Tina Kleckner
Old Abiquiu Adobe
Richard Kaysen
Tracy McBride
We also thank Rio Arriba Lodger's Tax for rewarding us with an annual advertising grant.
Special thanks to
