Opening: In Truth or Consequences Historic Hot Water District

Fine Art by John Johanek

Fiber Art by Durrae Johanek

The Historic Hot Water District
​
​Opening October 5, 2019
415 Broadway,
Truth or Consequences, NM 87901
Gallery Hours:
Wednesday - Sunday
10 am - 5 pm
Open until 9 pm on ART HOP and FIRST SATURDAY, TOO
CONTACT: John Johanek
406-539-7017    [email protected]​

The collaboration of husband and wife team John and Durrae Johanek, the gallery will include works of art from a variety of local and regional artists as well as creations from the owners. “When the space at 415 Broadway became available, we didn’t hesitate to pursue the gallery,” say the Johaneks. Although the couple had prior commitments that prevented them from opening sooner, some interior work was done and groundwork was laid for the fall opening.

Durrae’s work features fiber arts ranging from woven baskets to felted hats. A spinner, she fashions her hats from yarn she’s spun and hand felted, accentuating them with adornments such as buttons made from local pecan wood. What makes her hats unique is the chiengora she works into her creations.

John has produced a variety of artwork, most recently while working in the studio space he occupied this past winter just two doors down from the gallery. His oversized portraits both in watercolor and acrylics will be on display as well as a selection of other subjects including birds and animals.

The gallery will also feature contributing artists from Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and beyond. The works include modern and abstract paintings as well as dimensional art and items that reflect the flavor of the area. “We want people to see things at Zia Gallery that they won’t find anywhere else,” says John. From unique note cards and limited edition prints to tinted archival photos of Hot Springs, visitors will certainly find something special. A small sample of what to expect can be seen on their website at ziagallerynm.com.

A separate portion of the space will be used as their studio, where you’re welcome to visit while they’re working. A grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, October 5, from 10 AM to 9 PM. Normal hours are 10 AM to 5 PM Wednesday through Sunday and until 9 PM on the first and second Saturdays of each month.

One of Durrae’s pine needle baskets featuring a Mimbres-style turtle.

John (right) with two of his subjects with their finished portraits. Artist Carlis Chee (left), who spends some of his time painting in Truth or Consequences, and Mario Portillo (center), owner of the Grapevine Bistro, which is located next door to Zia Gallery.

 In addition to portraits, John does wildlife as well, like this mixed media painting of a white-crowned sparrow.

New Mexico artists are amazing!
Discover New Mexico’s Art Treasures & support
the people who create them.

---