Tradiciones Nuevomexicanas

Tradiciones Nuevomexicanas is the first comprehensive overview of the folk arts of New Mexico from the sixteenth century to the present. Both religious and secular art are covered, and the author discusses festivals, music, and dance; theater, poetry, and storytelling; and foodways and the healing arts. The book begins with a useful overview of New Mexico’s history and includes specialized chronologies, glossaries, bibliographies, videographies, discographies, and a list of recommended readings. Drawing on the expertise of dozens of noted scholars, recognized experts, and living artists, it distills the scholarly works and detailed studies found in monographs and single-subject books to create a narrative that is accessible to the general reader.

In a state where the Nuevomexicano culture is under pressure to survive, especially in urban areas, readers will find this book critical in promoting pride and understanding in one’s heritage among Nuevomexicano readers, and in promoting intercultural understanding and tolerance among non-Hispano readers. No student, scholar, or collector of the folk art for which New Mexico is known can do without this essential book.