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.
It Came from Beyond the Border
July 10 – September 21, 2024
Angel Cabrales’ artwork embraces the artistry of 1950’s science fiction B-movie posters and futuristic art to create powerful pieces that confront and comment on immigration policies in the United States.
Cabrales created his ongoing “Tequila Sci-Fi Series” starting in 2016 in response to the increased hostility toward immigrants and asylum seekers along the U.S./Mexico border. Seeing a parallel between 1950s’ fear of nuclear mutants threatening America, and contemporary fears of America being overwhelmed by immigrants, Cabrales exaggerates these concerns using pop culture imagery.
By using these familiar graphics in a new way, Cabrales engages audiences with familiar references that are then turned on their head once viewers realize their true message.
Dunes & Dreams: A Portrait of White Sands National Park
September 6 – October 19, 2024
Booher’s photographs capture the majestic gypsum dunes at White Sands National Park. Frequently photographed in sweeping panoramic views, Booher, a local photographer, seeks to invite a more intimate portrayal of the gypsum dunefields found at White Sands National Park through his photographs. Created over a five-year period, Booher explored the constraints of a square photograph format while capturing the ethereal quality and subtle tones of the white sands.
Booher spent his early life living and working on a small ranch in New Mexico which instilled a lifelong appreciation of the landscape, history, and people of New Mexico. After moving to Mesilla 34 years ago, Booher was drawn to the magical and sublime gypsum dunes found at White Sands National Park. He has been photographing them ever since.
