Albuquerque Mayor Wins Public Leadership in Arts Award

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Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller has been named a recipient of the Public Leadership in the Arts Award, presented by the United States Conference of Mayors and Americans for the Arts. The award recognizes elected officials who have bolstered their local economies through investment in arts and culture.

Why it matters

Albuquerque's creative economy now generates $1.75 billion in annual impact and supports 17,000 jobs, underscoring the vital role the arts play in the city's economic development. The upcoming Americans for the Arts national convention in Albuquerque will showcase the city's thriving public art scene.

The details

The Public Leadership in the Arts Award honors elected officials who have demonstrated a commitment to strengthening their communities through the arts. Mayor Keller has overseen a period of growth and investment in Albuquerque's creative economy, which now accounts for a significant portion of the city's overall economic impact.

• The Public Leadership in the Arts Award winners were announced in February 2026.
• The Americans for the Arts national convention will be held in Albuquerque in June 2026.

What’s next

The Americans for the Arts national convention in June 2026 will provide an opportunity for people to see firsthand the ways Albuquerque has expanded its public art and creative economy.