About Aurora Arts Collective
Our Mission
At Aurora Arts Collective, nestled in the vibrant artistic community of Santa Fe, New Mexico, our mission is to foster creativity, promote artistic expression, and connect artists with the community. We believe that art is a fundamental aspect of human experience, capable of inspiring, challenging, and enriching lives. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment where artists of all backgrounds and skill levels can thrive.
We are committed to:
- Providing opportunities for artists to showcase their work through exhibitions, workshops, and community events.
- Offering educational programs that nurture artistic talent and promote lifelong learning.
- Creating a welcoming and accessible space for art lovers to engage with diverse forms of artistic expression.
- Supporting emerging artists by providing resources and mentorship opportunities.
- Building strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses to promote the arts in Santa Fe.
Our vision is to be a leading arts organization in Santa Fe, recognized for our commitment to artistic excellence, community engagement, and innovative programming. We aim to be a catalyst for creativity, fostering a vibrant and thriving arts ecosystem that benefits the entire community.
Our Team
Aurora Arts Collective is guided by a dedicated team of passionate individuals who are committed to our mission. Our team brings together a diverse range of skills and experience in the arts, education, and community development.
Elena Rodriguez
Executive Director
Elena Rodriguez brings over 15 years of experience in arts administration to Aurora Arts Collective. With a background in art history and a passion for supporting artists, Elena provides strategic leadership and oversees all aspects of the organization's operations. Contact Elena at: elena.rodriguez@bramiloftforest.com
David Chen
Curator of Exhibitions
David Chen is an experienced curator with a keen eye for emerging talent. David is responsible for developing and implementing the exhibition program at Aurora Arts Collective, ensuring a diverse and engaging selection of artwork. Contact David at: david.chen@bramiloftforest.com
Maria Garcia
Education Coordinator
Maria Garcia is passionate about making art accessible to everyone. As Education Coordinator, Maria develops and delivers workshops, classes, and community outreach programs that promote artistic learning and engagement. Contact Maria at: maria.garcia@bramiloftforest.com
Benicio Martinez
Marketing and Communications Manager
Benicio develops and executes marketing and communication strategies to promote the Collective's events, artists, and mission. He manages social media, website content, and press relations. Reach him at benicio.martinez@bramiloftforest.com.
Our History
Aurora Arts Collective was founded in 2010 by a group of local artists and art enthusiasts who recognized the need for a dedicated space to support and promote the arts in Santa Fe. Initially, the collective operated out of a small studio in the historic Railyard District, hosting exhibitions and workshops for a small but growing community of artists.
Over the years, Aurora Arts Collective has expanded its programs and reach, becoming a vital resource for artists and art lovers throughout the region. In 2015, the collective moved to its current location in a renovated warehouse in the up-and-coming Midtown neighborhood, providing a larger and more versatile space for exhibitions, workshops, and community events.
Some key milestones in our history include:
- 2010: Founded by local artists in the Railyard District.
- 2012: Launched our first annual juried art exhibition.
- 2015: Moved to our current location in Midtown Santa Fe.
- 2017: Established our Emerging Artist Residency program.
- 2020: Transitioned to online programming during the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding our reach to a global audience.
- 2023: Partnered with the Santa Fe Public Schools to offer art education programs for underserved youth.
Today, Aurora Arts Collective continues to serve as a hub for creativity and community engagement, offering a diverse range of programs and opportunities for artists and art lovers alike. We are proud of our history and excited about the future of the arts in Santa Fe.
Accessibility Statement
Aurora Arts Collective is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for everyone. We are continually improving the user experience for all visitors and adhere to accessibility guidelines.
Measures to support accessibility:
- Include accessibility throughout our internal policies.
- Integrate accessibility into our development process.
- Provide continual accessibility training for our staff.
Feedback: We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of our website. Please let us know if you encounter accessibility barriers. E-mail: accessibility@bramiloftforest.com. We try to respond to feedback within 2 business days.