About UsRio Rancho Art on the Mesa launched in September 2023. The primary focus is on the process of art, meaning the end product is not the primary focus. The emphasis is on the experience, not the outcome. This program celebrates the discoveries each artist makes while creating their unique artwork. Participants of all ages will learn and work in all mediums and our kids focused programs will teach several skills, from learning about famous artists, colors, and color blending to fine motor skills, cognitive and creative thinking, and more.
Remember, art is for everyone. |
Donate to RR Art on the Mesa here
All donations are welcome. Monthly donations are the easiest way to support RRYC. Affordable and automatic, sustaining donations are what keeps the door of discovery open in Rio Rancho.
|
Our Programs
We bring the art to your classroom — all supplies included!
Mini-Monet is a process-based art program that celebrates discovery and creativity. Students explore color, materials, and foundational art elements while developing fine motor skills, creative thinking, and confidence through hands-on art making. Contact [email protected] for more info. |
Open Arts Studio is a welcoming space where everyone can explore the arts - no matter their age, ability, or experience. Gather offers open studio time to create together, while Learn features workshops focused on building skills.
Click here to learn more. |
Art on the Mesa also offers workshops for ages 2-100+
Book an art experience today!
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, our art workshops offer a welcoming environment to express your artistic vision.
For more information contact [email protected]
- Guided Instruction: Join us for a relaxing and creative afternoon where you'll immerse yourself in the in the holiday season. In this class designed for ages 8 and older, we are creating unique and personal holiday cards. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this class offers a welcoming environment to express your artistic vision.
- Creative Freedom: While we'll follow a structured approach, there's ample room for personal expression. Feel free to add your unique touches, whether it’s a specific color scheme or additional elements.
- Materials Provided: All supplies will be provided. Just bring yourself and your enthusiasm!
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a soothing and supportive environment where you can unwind and let your creativity flow. We’ll create a calm and friendly space for all participants to explore their artistic side.
- Take Home Your Masterpiece: At the end of the class, you’ll leave with your own original work of art, ready to brighten up your home or be gifted to someone special.
For more information contact [email protected]
Meet the Artistic Directors |
Jen Doolittle is a professional photographer, arts administrator, and artist with over a decade of experience in creative leadership, community engagement, and program development. She has always believed everyone is creative and that art has the power to heal. Jen fell in love with photography as a child, fascinated by her dad’s camera and the stories tucked inside family photo albums. Today, her work explores identity, memory, and emotion by transforming the familiar into something new. As she continues her BFA in Art Studio with a minor in Arts Leadership and Business, she has expanded her creative practice through drawing, painting, and collage, strengthening the creative and administrative foundations she brings to her work in community arts.
Besides her visual arts practice, Jen has a strong background in theater management and production, supporting and coordinating performances and staged readings that uplift local voices and unite people.
As Artistic Director of Open Arts Studio, she is committed to building a welcoming and accessible community arts hub where people of all ages and abilities can express themselves, learn, and connect through the joy of creating.
Besides her visual arts practice, Jen has a strong background in theater management and production, supporting and coordinating performances and staged readings that uplift local voices and unite people.
As Artistic Director of Open Arts Studio, she is committed to building a welcoming and accessible community arts hub where people of all ages and abilities can express themselves, learn, and connect through the joy of creating.
Melissa Drymon is a talented artist who has been involved in children’s programming and advocacy for many years. Melissa has been an official photographer for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and is a regular contributor to the #reliefconspiracy, an international Art-Sharing group. Melissa has used her deeply personal art to support other local artists through Timber Studio’s Fundraiser for ABC Mutual Aid, as well as commissioned several pieces locally. She has also participated in the Annual People’s Show. Her children’s advocacy work includes grassroots support for Title I schools and Special Education.
Melissa received her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Psychology from UNM in 2017, as a non-traditional student raising a family. Her work often “touches on difficult issues, but she approaches with a nuanced delicacy” (Abbey Hepner, UNM and UCCS Art Professor,2016). She has worked with many mediums and her print work has been in nationwide shows. Melissa also has a degree in Early Childhood Development, making her art classes educational as well as fun and engaging.
Melissa’s unique combination of life experience and education makes her an asset to the newly fledging art program. Her passion to bring the arts to children who may not otherwise have access has been proven through her work in the schools. Melissa has long advocated for access in the schools as well as ensuring that Special Education and Exceptional students are treated equally.
Melissa received her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Psychology from UNM in 2017, as a non-traditional student raising a family. Her work often “touches on difficult issues, but she approaches with a nuanced delicacy” (Abbey Hepner, UNM and UCCS Art Professor,2016). She has worked with many mediums and her print work has been in nationwide shows. Melissa also has a degree in Early Childhood Development, making her art classes educational as well as fun and engaging.
Melissa’s unique combination of life experience and education makes her an asset to the newly fledging art program. Her passion to bring the arts to children who may not otherwise have access has been proven through her work in the schools. Melissa has long advocated for access in the schools as well as ensuring that Special Education and Exceptional students are treated equally.
