One towns soul is revealed through the art of its people. Wayne Gerdes – CleanMPG – Mar. 26, 2025 Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial at 2nd and Cole street. Gallup, NM – Small towns along Route 66 were once vibrant hubs for travelers traversing what many of us know as the Mother Road. These towns thrived on the steady flow of tourists stopping for gas, food, and lodging. With the advent of the Interstate Highway System however, traffic bypassed these small communities resulting in a falloff of visitors, closure of businesses, inevitable population decline, and gradual economic demise. While some towns have vanished, others like Gallup are attempting to reinvent themselves as nostalgic tourist destinations and preserving the legacy of a once-iconic highway that shaped the heart of America. The “Art” of Attraction Throughout downtown Gallup, vibrant murals adorn many of the town's small businesses and Government buildings telling the story of its history. These murals reflect the heritage and stories of the Navajo and Pueblo peoples, as well as the town's historical role as a hub along Route 66. Each piece is a visual narrative of rich cultural tapestry. Zuni Culture at 2nd and Hill Ave. Gallup’s murals are the result of collaborations between local artists, businesses and the community, a testament to the town’s dedication to preserving its heritage. A stroll through Gallup reveals walls bursting with creativity with intricate patterns of Navajo weavings to larger-than-life portraits of local heroes. These murals are now landmarks, that draw tourists, photographers, and serve as a source of pride for the local citizenry. They also support Gallup’s efforts to position itself as a future destination for cultural tourism, reflecting the unique fusion of Native American traditions and the town’s history as a crossroads. The murals of Gallup are more than just art; they tell a story of not just the past but the future that evolves with the community. As new murals are created, they bring new energy and perspective that are grounded in local tradition. Great Gallup at 2nd and Aztec Ave. Whether you’re a visitor passing through as Marian and I have or a resident, these murals will remind you of the enduring power of art and its ability to connect people while celebrating a locations spirit. Gallup’s walls spoke to me and what they said is both beautiful and profound. I hope you enjoy following along the Gallup artistic tour as much as Marian and I did. Gallup Community Life at 2nd and Aztec Ave. Untitled and beautiful. Veterans Memorial on Courthouse Square. Coal Mining Era Downtown Walkway between Coal and Aztec. Global Warming on 2nd and Aztec. Street. Global Warming on 2nd and Aztec Street. Global Warming on 2nd and Aztec Street. Run for the Wall on Downtown Walkway between Coal and Aztec. Red Rock Balloon Rally on Downtown Walkway between Coal and Aztec. Prairie Dogs on 3rd street. Jerry's Cafe on Route 66 and Coal Ave. Untitled and a stunningly rich representation of one of an Indian Tribes local history. Route 66 at Gallup Chamber of Commerce on Route 66 Prairie Dogs on 3rd Street. Raven Bright Water Bender and Marilyn Monroe on Coal Ave. Another untitled mural that was extremely well done and emotionally moving. Silver Dust Trading on Route 66. Navajo Code Talker on 2nd and Coal Street. Zuni Culture at 2nd and Hill Ave. Navajo Code Talker on 2nd and Coal Street. Untitled. Navajo Basket Downtown across from City Hall. Gallup Community Life at 2nd and Aztec Ave. Silver Dust Trading on Route 66.
