COUNTY News:

Combining history, culture and art, the “Atoms and Art: The Intersecting Lives of Maria Poveka Martinez and Bernice Bidwell Brode” Exhibit is coming to the Los Alamos History Museum this February in Los Alamos.

Following a donation of Maria Martinez pottery from the family of author, Bernice Brode—known for her classic work “Tales of Los Alamos: Life on the Mesa 1943–1945”—the Los Alamos Historical Society will present historical photos, the pottery collection and Bernice’s stories. 

The exhibit, sponsored by Los Alamos National Bank, brings to life the extraordinary intersection of history, culture, and art—despite remarkably different backgrounds—that occurred between Brode and Martinez, a Native American artist, during the Manhattan Project. 

“The art of Maria Martinez is internationally renowned,” said Los Alamos County Marketing Manager Kelly Stewart. “This exhibit brings to life the story of Maria Martinez’ special ties to Los Alamos—and author Bernice Brode. Hosting this event in Los Alamos, with Ms. Brode’s family members, is an incredible opportunity for locals and visitors to learn about Los Alamos’ history, art and culture.”

The Atoms and Art Exhibit will focus largely on the historic dance held with Pueblo members and Los Alamos residents that occurred December of 1945 at San Ildefonso. In celebration, the opening of the exhibit will feature opening ceremonies performed by a Pueblo elder. Members of Bernice Brode’s extended family also will be in attendance to celebrate the exhibit’s opening.

“Los Alamos is known as the place where discoveries are made,” Stewart said. “This February, we invite you to discover incredible Native American culture and art at this must-see exhibit.”

The exhibit opening is 4-6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1 at the Los Alamos History Museum, 1050 Bathtub Row in downtown Los Alamos.

For more information on all there is to see and do in Los Alamos or to plan your visit, go to VisitLosAlamos.org.