ABQ Times

The latest addition to Albuquerque's Public Art Program, a mural titled "La Puesta del Sol" by local artist Roberto Lara, was officially dedicated today. The event was attended by Chief Administrative Officer Samantha Sengel, members of the City's Department of Arts & Culture and Arts Board, as well as community members.

Located on the Rail Yards Pattern House in downtown Albuquerque, this mural emerged from a professional development initiative with the Public Art Program. It represents Lara's largest mural proposal to date. Known for his contemporary mixed media paintings influenced by street graffiti, Lara is an artist based in Albuquerque.

"Today, we celebrate a beautiful new mural and a powerful story about Albuquerque's spirit," stated Dr. Samantha Sengel, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Albuquerque. She added that "La Puesta del Sol marks the beginning of our Rail Trail's artistic journey, transforming a historic space that once employed a quarter of our workforce and opening up new possibilities for art along this transformative route."

Commissioned by the Albuquerque Arts Board, "La Puesta del Sol" features vibrant colors and abstract elements reflecting Albuquerque’s cultural and natural landscape. It includes depictions of downtown buildings and the Sandia mountains while capturing New Mexico’s renowned sunsets with hues symbolizing warmth and hope.

Roberto Lara expressed gratitude for his involvement in revitalizing the Rail Yards: “I’m very thankful for the opportunity to paint at the Rail Yards as it was a place where I’d paint and explore when it was abandoned. Now years later being involved in the revitalization of the Rail Yards is something I will forever cherish.” He also noted that “the power of art and creativity will continue to motivate me as this project is just the beginning of many more to come.”

The mural was both designed and painted by Roberto Lara.