Orpheum Community Hub Mural, 2019
funded by the City of Albuquerque & Homewise Corporation
designed by Denise Weaver Ross, painted by Denise Weaver Ross & Roe LiBretto, assisted by Nicholas Ross
located at 500 2nd Street SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Steam Locomotive: This is the last steam train serviced at the Barelas train yards. It is currently being renovated at 1833 8th St NW by The Railroad Historical Society. The society kindly provided many reference photos.
Railyard workers: Julia Archibeque from the Barelas Neighborhood Association provided the reference photo that includes her father. (Second from left on the top row.)
Red Ball Café: In operation since 1922, The Red Ball Cafe and the Wimpy Burger have been a part of New Mexican History. Presidents Clinton and Obama both visited here.
Low Rider: Below the film reel, a low rider sits on the west bank of the river facing the Sandias and was inspired by looking at many classic lowriders and provides homage to the car culture prevalent along Coal Avenue and Route 66.
Wedding: A traditional wedding parade to the brides home with Mariachis Dora Gunckel from the Barelas Neighborhood Association provided the photo reference; the bride is Dora’s cousin Dolores. Maclovia Sanchez de Zamora: Maclovia was a well respected traditional healer associated with historic B. Ruppe Drugs. I had of the honor of meeting her and hearing her speak several years ago at Tortuga Gallery.
Matachines: The Sacred Heart Matachines from Barelas. This tradition dance performance results from a fusion of traditions from Spain, Mexico, and Native American origins.
Las Posadas: For over 70 years Barelas has reenacted the journey of Mary and Joseph looking for shelter. The Barelas neighborhood association provided the reference photos for both Las Posadas and the Matachines.
Railyard Windows: The iconic railyard windows as they look today.
Film Spool: The journey is completed from the railroad to the use of the railyards as a movie set as the iconic windows wind into the spool.