The Branigan Cultural Center hosts changing cultural exhibits, as well as educational programs, classes, and other special events. The building is on the National and State Registries of Historic Buildings.
Free Admission
Parking
Parking is at 500 N Water Street on the north end of Main Street Downtown, next to the Museum of Art.
Tour Information
To book a tour, please email Museum Education or call the tour coordinator at (575) 541-2321. For more tour information go here.
Contact Us
Email the Branigan Cultural Center: [email protected]
Physical Address:
501 N Main Street
Las Cruces, NM 88001
Phone: (575) 541-2154
Hours of Operation
Tuesday – Friday, 10AM – 4:30PM
Saturday, 9AM – 4:30PM
Current Exhibits
Las Cruces: Crossroads of History
Using original artifacts and historic photographs, “Las Cruces: Crossroads of History” charts the history of the region from its early indigenous inhabitants to its settlement by Mexicans and its shift to being a part of the United States. Las Cruces’ establishment, in 1848, and its growth is followed through multiple topics including Civil War soldiers, ranchers, and outlaws.
The introduction of the railroad in 1878 and its impact is covered, as well as New Mexico statehood in 1912. The exhibit ends with the impact of World War II and the nuclear and rocket technology that followed.
The Ballard Photo Studio: A Portrait of Community
October 4, 2024 – February, 15, 2025
The Branigan Cultural Center presents The Ballard Photo Studio: A Portrait of Community, an exhibit showcasing over 200 portraits and photographs by Las Cruces photographer Jim Ballard. The collection offers a glimpse into the Mesilla Valley community between 1930 and 1950, with images selected from the extensive Ballard Photo Studio collection held by the New Mexico State University Library Archives.
Jim Ballard operated a photo studio on Main Street, capturing the portraits of more than 5,000 Mesilla Valley residents using a large-format camera, producing clear, high-resolution 5×7-inch negatives. In addition to personal portraits, Ballard documented local businesses and community events, creating thousands of photographs now preserved in the Library Archives. This exhibit highlights the history and spirit of the area through the work of one of its most dedicated photographers.
The Dinner Party: Multicultural Crossroads in Clay
November 1, 2024 – January 18, 2025
The Branigan Cultural Center presents The Dinner Party: Multicultural Crossroads in Clay, an exhibition by the Potters’ Guild of Las Cruces. This exhibit celebrates the 175th anniversary of Mesilla and Las Cruces, New Mexico, through utilitarian and sculptural ceramic art. On view from November 1, 2024, through January 18, 2025, the exhibit features place settings that artistically interpret the rich history and cultural significance of the region.
Nine artists from the Potters’ Guild have crafted unique handmade dinnerware adorned with motifs representing the Southwest, including themes like crosses, crossroads, nature, and the influence of the landscape. Drawing inspiration from Judy Chicago’s iconic art piece The Dinner Party, these works reflect on the layers of cultural identity that have shaped Mesilla and Las Cruces.
Founded in 1981, the Potters’ Guild of Las Cruces has brought together diverse artists, including Native American artisans, local families, recent retirees, and students, fostering a strong ceramics community in southern New Mexico.