The Museum posted an open call for artists earlier in the year and received 190 submissions from artists nationwide.
Source: New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs
Photos: Courtesy
Santa Fe, NM – To honor 100 years of getting our kicks on Route 66, the New Mexico History Museum selected artist Molly Mendenhall to design and paint an exciting mural of America’s most famous highway for the museum’s lobby, on view January 2026 – January 2027.
Mendenhall was one of five finalists who submitted concept designs to be considered by the museum’s selection committee. The Museum posted an open call for artists earlier in the year and received 190 submissions from artists nationwide. Mendenhall’s mural was chosen because of the narrative quality that captures the crossroads of time along the historic road.
“I’m thrilled to be painting a mural for the History Museum in celebration of the Centennial of Route 66, the historic route which symbolized a nation of mobility, migration, and adventure, and the highway from which many communities, such as my own, have grown their vibrant city centers,” said Mendenhall. “Today, these communities contain a well-rooted history in support of the arts, so if you want to see a rich and diverse representation of street art and murals, head to Route 66!”
Mendenhall combines her admiration for the natural world with playful design and colors. Her mural will bridge historic imagery with a contemporary feel by using a variation of techniques illustrating a transition from a sepia-washed and stippled 1930’s scene to a modern vision of Albuquerque coming into color in the distance.
“We are delighted to have Molly working on this project. Route 66 had such a significant impact on New Mexico, and Molly’s deep connection to the state and her understanding of the land and its history will no doubt lead to a thoughtful and significant artwork,” said Keri Schroeder, curator and project lead.
Mendenhall will begin working on the mural in November. Visitors will be able to meet the artist and watch her painting during regular museum hours. The History Museum will also host an exhibition in January 2026 at the Governor’s Gallery in the Capitol Building Roundhouse featuring the artwork of all five mural finalists.