We are thrilled to announce the completion of “Rise Above Mosaic,” a stunning new mural by world-renowned artist Shepard Fairey, now installed at the entrance of the Santa Fe Art Institute.
Shepard, alongside his talented team members Dan Flores and Rob Zagula, spent time at the Institute bringing this vision to life, and the result is nothing short of breathtaking. This mural is a lasting gift to our community and a beautiful statement about the power of art to inspire change.
This project was made possible through a wonderful partnership with the Turner Carroll Gallery. We also encourage you to visit their exhibition, “Cultivate Justice,” on view now, which is Fairey’s first gallery exhibition in New Mexico.
“It is a true honor to welcome world-renowned artist Shepard Fairey and his extraordinary vision to the walls of the Santa Fe Art Institute. His breathtaking artwork is more than a mural—it is a lasting gift to Santa Fe that will inspire generations to come.
Shepard is not only one of the most influential artists of our time, but also a fearless advocate for human rights, climate action, and the protection of democracy. His work challenges us to think, to care, and to imagine a better future.
Thank you, Shepard, for leaving a piece of your legacy here in Santa Fe. Your art will continue to spark conversation, inspire hope, and remind us that creativity has the power to change the world.”
— Michael J. Garcia, Mayor of Santa Fe
This mural arrives at a pivotal moment in our organization’s history. Since our I joined SFAI in January 2025, the institute has evolved to become a truly artist-first, artist-led organization that believes we can only move forward in genuine partnership with the artists we serve.
This year, that vision has become reality as SFAI has:
- Distributed $75,000 in unrestricted grants to thirteen artist fellows based across the United States and Nigeria
- Partnered with the European Union Delegation to the United States and the Institute of American Indian Arts to launch the Transatlantic Rising Star
Project residency in Santa Fe, creating new opportunities for creative exchange with work currently installed in the EU’s Embassy through the end of the summer. - Launched SCAR (Spinal Cord Artist Residency), the first artist residency created by and for artists with spinal cord injuries in the Southwest United States.
- Introduced a range of new artist-led wellness and professional development programs for artists in and around Santa Fe
- Premiered Swoon‘s new stop motion film, “In the Realm of Sibylants” and hosted a live performance by the artist
- Hosted several artist-led groups to support dynamic community programming, including Dancing Earth, Earthseed Black Arts Alliance, Impact Lab and others.
None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of the entire SFAI team, our community partners, and the artists who make this work matter.
We are so proud of how far SFAI has come, and even more excited about where we’re headed.
Onward and upward!
– Toccarra Thomas, SFAI Executive Director
© Santa Fe Art Institute / Santa Fe, New Mexico /