In a recent development, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has announced plans to remove murals depicting a polar bear and flowers along Interstate 25 (I-25). The artwork, located at the intersection of I-25 and Lead, has sparked debate over whether it constitutes a mural or graffiti.

Controversy Over Artwork

Residents of Albuquerque, New Mexico, have expressed mixed reactions to the artwork. While some appreciate its aesthetic value and believe it enhances the city’s beauty, others view it as unauthorized graffiti. According to KOB 4, a local news outlet, an Albuquerque resident remarked, I like it, it makes Albuquerque pretty. Show people out of town that come over here, you know, show that we have a beautiful city.

However, NMDOT officials assert that any unauthorized painting or tagging on state property must be treated as graffiti and removed accordingly. Kimberly Gallegos, Public Information Officer for NMDOT, explained, We have to follow the rules of DOT which state if anything is painted, without, or tagged without prior permission, then we do have to treat it such as graffiti and just do the graffiti removal process.

State Regulations and Permits

As I-25 falls under state jurisdiction, paintings like the polar bear and flower murals require prior permission from NMDOT. Gallegos emphasized the importance of obtaining permits for such artwork, stating, We are hoping to reach out to the artist and if we can find out who that is and let them know of our process, and definitely encourage them to seek out that permit along with that governing agency.

While the artist responsible for the murals did not secure permission, NMDOT encourages local artists to showcase their talent through approved channels. Gallegos highlighted the opportunity for artists to apply for permits through the District 3 office, albeit with certain guidelines in place.

Guidelines for Artists

Artists seeking to display their work on state structures must adhere to specific rules set forth by NMDOT. These include restrictions on political or religious themes and ensuring that the artwork is not overly distracting to motorists. Designs undergo review by a committee before approval.

Gallegos reiterated NMDOT’s commitment to promoting local art and culture, stating, We’re always looking to enhance the New Mexico culture around our state by bringing some of those local artists in on our projects.

Conclusion: Fostering Artistic Expression

While the removal of the polar bear and flower murals may disappoint some residents, NMDOT’s stance underscores the importance of adhering to regulations regarding public artwork. By facilitating a permit process for artists, NMDOT aims to encourage creativity while maintaining the integrity of state property. Artists interested in contributing to New Mexico’s cultural landscape are encouraged to engage with NMDOT and seek approval for their designs.

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