Albuquerque District 2 City Councilor Joaquín Baca and Albuquerque Public School officials cut the ribbon on a new Downtown art trail, featuring artwork made by students at Amy Biehl High School and Lew Wallace Elementary School on Nov. 14.
“Supporting Creative Campus initiatives is essential to fostering innovation, expression and community,” said Melanie Telles, Lew Wallace Elementary principal. “Arts are at the heart of a vibrant, forward-thinking education.”
Downtown areas are the beating hearts of cities across the U.S., and local governments are actively revitalizing them. Collaboration and partnerships are key to activating these spaces and strengthening community connections – and students are leading the charge, making a positive impact through student-driven community enhancement projects.
“Volunteering in our Downtown community connects us with the heart of our city, where each student can make a lasting impact,” said Tanya Silva, Fine Arts educator. “Through efforts like the APS Creative Campus Collective, we see firsthand how our time and talents can fuel a thriving, vibrant arts scene that benefits everyone. Together, we’re not just supporting a location; we’re building a legacy of creativity, community and growth.”
The art project by Amy Biehl High School and Lew Wallace Elementary enhances the pedestrian experience, transforming utilitarian spaces into sources of joy. The new trail will guide residents to local businesses, schools and services while creating a more connected feeling within the neighborhood.
“Community investment improves neighborhoods,” Baca said. “We often speak in terms of economic investments, but the cultural investment made here with the artwork from these students is just as important for our future.”