Artists showcase work at ArtNM! event

From hand-made earrings to healing sprays to paintings and much more, artists of all kinds sold their works on a hot Saturday.

According to Creative Crossroads' Neal Shotwell, ArtNM! had at least 20 artists in attendance at the Sandoval County Administration Building April 13. The event is co-sponsored by Rio Rancho Creative Crossroads and Creative New Mexico.

"We're here to showcase the the arts in our community, get people together," Creative NM Board Treasurer Mary Lyle said.

The purpose of the event is to bring artists together and get some of them to support legislation that will benefit the creative community.

Many of the artists consider their art a passionate hobby that supplements day-to-day work. For some, it is a mental break from work. For others, the two are combined. Gia Steein keeps her painted works with mostly passion in mind.

"I'm getting my feet wet with it, actually. So it's not like I rely on the income now. It's more from the heart," she said.

To Steein, the important thing is to enjoy it.

"It adds to life," she said.

Some artists were there with cause in mind. Rio Rancho Animal Resource Center had some paintings done by animals on display.

Ruth Hanks, a Rio Rancho mom, had art that benefitted students with trouble focusing.

"I have two littles at home who have trouble focusing," she said.

Her sensory gardens and orbie jars are popular with teachers two because they are a quiet way for kids to calm their minds.

The event didn't have a lot of attendance from people looking to buy, but those who did come to shop found plenty of useful art pieces in jewelry, scarves, toys and much more.