Route 66 Centennial Mural Project
New Mexico History Museum selected artist Molly Mendenhall to paint a Route 66 centennial mural for the museum's lobby, January 2026-2027.
The New Mexico History Museum has selected artist Molly Mendenhall to design and paint a mural celebrating 100 years of Route 66. This is a completed selection for a specific mural project, though the opportunity details are provided for reference. The museum conducted an open call for artists earlier in 2025 and received 190 submissions from artists nationwide. Five finalists were selected to submit concept designs for consideration by the museum's selection committee. Mendenhall's mural was chosen for its narrative quality that captures the crossroads of time along the historic road. The artist's vision bridges historic imagery with a contemporary feel using varied techniques, transitioning from a sepia-washed and stippled 1930s scene to a modern vision of Albuquerque coming into color. Mendenhall combines her admiration for the natural world with playful design and colors. The mural will be displayed in the museum's lobby from January 2026 through January 2027. The artist will begin working on the mural in November 2025 and visitors will be able to meet the artist and watch her painting during regular museum hours. Additionally, the New Mexico History Museum will host an exhibition in January 2026 at the Governor's Gallery in the Capitol Building Roundhouse featuring the artwork of all five mural finalists. This project recognizes Route 66's significant impact on New Mexico and celebrates the state's vibrant artistic communities that have grown along this historic highway.