New Mexico is a land of light, landscape, and legend — and it’s no surprise that generations of painters have drawn endless inspiration from its skies, mesas, and deep cultural roots. On this page, we feature conversations with New Mexico painters who explore everything from classical oil techniques to tech-infused multimedia art. These interviews are part of the Art in the Raw video podcast series — filmed in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and beyond — showcasing how artists from New Mexico continue to evolve, inspire, and create.
Whether you’re searching for your next favorite painter, a spark of creative insight, or just want to see how art thrives in the desert Southwest, we invite you to explore these rich, honest discussions. From studio tours to philosophical insights, these artists share their journeys, techniques, and what it truly means to make a living through art in New Mexico.
Roland Van Loon shares his approach to painting during uncertain times, inviting us to reflect on meaning, values, and how art helps us navigate chaos. He offers heartfelt wisdom for both artists and art lovers.
Jessie Baca is a fourth-generation painter based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, whose playful and richly detailed work draws inspiration from Otomi textiles and regional flora and fauna. Known for painting on unconventional surfaces, Jessie shares how her creative path evolved from destination event planning to a full-time painting practice during the pandemic. Her colorful, accessible style bridges traditional folk motifs with contemporary design sensibilities.
Michael Rohner brings together influences from comic books, graffiti, and fine art illustration to create emotive, highly detailed works. Now living and creating in New Mexico, Michael’s art reflects a lifetime of cultural exposure — from Northern California to Japan — and a fascination with myth, symbolism, and storytelling. In this episode, he reflects on technique, visual language, and the meaning behind his imaginative creations.
Artist and creative technologist Josh Gallegos blends traditional media with modern tools. In this episode, he discusses painting, innovation, and how the intersection of art and software design creates new opportunities for expression and education.
Blending the street-art energy of the Bronx with classical technique, Alberto Zalma discusses how painting and music shape his world. His signature style is rooted in contrast — the old world meeting the new.
Croix Williamson explores natural patterns and universal design through his dual practice as a sculptor and painter. His short-form interview covers the chaos and order he finds in both mediums.
Looking for more? Explore our full library of New Mexico artists, or dive into conversations with creatives from Santa Fe. Each episode captures the heart of the Southwest art scene — where tradition meets experimentation and creativity knows no limits.
