As the southern part of the state of New Mexico grew, the need for a local
chapter of the NMWS was recognized by a small group of active artists in the Las Cruces area. A proposal for the
Chapter’s formation was presented to and approved by the NMWS Board in October, 2001. Over 45 new members joined
the 17 existing NMWS members to begin the operation of this new Southern Chapter (NMWS-SC) which continues to grow
and serve New Mexico’s southern counties, Chavez, Dona Ana, Eddy, Grant, Hidalgo, Luna, Otero, and Sierra.
Our meetings are held on the second Sunday of each month (excluding July and August or unless announced otherwise)
in downtown Las Cruces at the Branigan Memorial Library, Dresp Room, 200 East Picacho Avenue beginning at 2 PM.
See the Calendar for our meeting schedule and programs.
If you are interested in the medium of watercolor, join us for these lively and informative programs on topics of
interest to watercolorists. Depending on the program, a nominal fee may be charged.
The NMWS-SC holds three exhibits each year in Las Cruces, open to its members, a small paintings show in the fall
(usually themed), a show in February as part of the For The Love of Art month, and a juried/judged spring show.
You can find information about upcoming and past shows on the Southern Chapter Exhibits page.
We also sponsor one or more two to three-day workshops in Las Cruces each year. Details about future and past workshops and,
if interested, how to apply for upcoming workshops are provided on our Workshops page.