The Art in Public Places Program (AIPP) was established in 1986 when the NM State Legislature passed, and the Governor signed into law the Art in Public Places Act (Sections 13-4A-1 through 13-4A-11 NMSA). This legislation declares it “a policy of the State that a portion of appropriations for capital expenditure be set aside for the acquisition or commissioning of works of art to be used in, upon or around public buildings”.

Since the program’s inception, more than 3,000 artworks have been placed at public buildings and sites across all 33 New Mexico counties. Our goal as the PUBLIC ART – AIPP program is to enrich New Mexico communities with innovative and dynamic PUBLIC ART – AIPP that reflects the diversity of arts found in New Mexico, the Southwest, and the Nation.

Artwork is acquired in collaboration with the owner agency (public building/site) utilizing AIPP funds and following the NM Administrative Code (NMAC).