Portales, NM – September 23, 2024 – Eastern New Mexico University was the proud recipient of two original oil paintings from renowned New Mexico painter Ed Sandoval on Tuesday, September 17. The gift included two original paintings titled "Pueblo Firelight" and "Ranchos Rain."

The two paintings include his character "El Viejito, " meaning "the little old man" in Spanish. "El Viejito" is a recurring character in Sandoval's paintings that reflects his love for New Mexico.

"Mr. Sandoval is a truly gifted artist, and ENMU is honored to have received two exquisite examples of his work," said James Johnston, ENMU Chancellor. "We are proud to have been a part of his educational journey. He is an outstanding alumnus and a member of our Greyhound family."

The paintings will be displayed in the main lobby of the Jack Williamson Liberal Arts Building (JWLA). Bryan Hahn, manager of the Runnels Gallery and the university art collection curator, said, "We want to display these paintings in high-traffic areas near the front of the Jack Williamson Liberal Arts Building. Many people from various disciplines are in that building, so a variety of people from many different backgrounds and interests will see the paintings."

Sandoval graduated from Eastern New Mexico University in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education. A native son of Nambe, NM, Sandoval is known for his magical pictorial storytelling rooted in the land and history of New Mexico. For over 30 years, he has owned and operated his own art gallery, the Ed Sandoval Gallery, in Taos, New Mexico.

For more information on the ENMU Runnels Gallery and the University Art Collection, visit www.enmu.edu/RunnelsGallery