Open Submissions Process

The Branigan Cultural Center seeks proposals for exhibits with themes of cultural and historical significance relating to the Borderland region and the U.S. Southwest. Topics to be considered are wide-ranging and can address historic or contemporary issues. We invite submissions from informal and formal scholars, cultural heritage organizations and other institutions, and artists (solo or group).

Submission Information:
  • Exhibits will be hosted at the Branigan Cultural Center in 2025-2026, with dates to be determined by the Las Cruces Museum System.
  • The Branigan Cultural Center displays exhibits in two different galleries, ranging from approximately 1,000 sq.ft. to 1,400 sq. ft., or 30 linear feet to 115 linear feet.
  • Final determination of which pieces will be displayed and square footage devoted to exhibits will be made by the Museum System exhibit staff.
  • Preference will be given to exhibitions that demonstrate a strong connection to the cultural and historic heritage of Las Cruces, the Mesilla Valley and southern New Mexico.
  • All submissions are subject to a community-based review committee that ranks and selects the exhibit proposals.
Submissions are accepted electronically only through this SurveyMonkey link. You must upload 6 to 10 high resolution jpg or png images of the materials or works intended for exhibition (or works of similar style). Exhibitor information/artist's statements are required. Please have these materials ready when you begin filling out the application as you cannot save it and return to it later.

Deadline for submissions is Friday, May 17th at 5pm MDT. The selection jury will meet in mid-June, with applicants informed of decisions by July 31, 2024.

If you have questions, please contact museum.exhibitions@las-cruces.org.

T