County employees inside the Community Art Tunnel. Courtesy/LAC

COUNTY News:

Los Alamos County Community Services Department received the Arts and Humanities Award from the New Mexico Recreation and Park Association for the Community Art Tunnel, at its annual conference.

The award is presented to agency’s that have achieved excellence in providing the most innovative and effective arts and humanities program in the state.

The Community Art Tunnel was a simple idea that was brought for the by a Los Alamos County employee who saw a construction space and potentially dull space, as a placemaking idea that could bring the outdoors and art community together.

The Community Art Tunnel is on Canyon Rim Trail, connecting the trail under N.M. 502. It provides a space for individuals of all talents and ages to create a piece of art within various size blocks, which are on display for up to one year.

Potential artists only need to show up with their materials, scan a QR code on an unused space, and sign up to begin. There is no need to talk with staff or pay a fee. Canyon Rim trail is frequented by visitors, walkers, runners and bikers on a daily basis, and the Community Art Tunnel provides an exposure to local artists talent in a space where it is not expected.

The Community Art Tunnel has been praised by the community as a “brilliant idea” and has been extremely popular within its first six months.