Workshops

Exciting workshops are currently underway at the Northern Río Grande National Heritage Area (NRGNHA), where we serve as stewards of Northern New Mexico’s unique cultural and natural heritage. Our commitment extends beyond preservation; we actively engage in education and cultural connection, bridging the past with the present and future. Through collaboration with tribal entities, local municipalities, and governmental bodies, we ensure inclusivity and representation in all our endeavors. At NRGNHA, unity is paramount as we advocate for cultural celebration and sustainable practices. Join us in honoring traditions, supporting communities, and nurturing a future where culture and nature thrive harmoniously.

Class Title: Straw Appliqué of Northern New Mexico

Date: January 17, 2026

Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Location: Los Luceros Historic Site

Description:

Straw appliqué, known locally as “paja”, is one of Northern New Mexico’s most distinctive and enduring traditional arts. Developed in the Spanish colonial period, this art form used wheat straw as a substitute for gold leaf, allowing artisans in remote villages to decorate devotional
objects without costly imported materials.

The process begins with carefully selecting and preparing wheat straw, which is split, flattened,
and burnished to enhance its natural golden sheen. These straw pieces are then cut and
arranged into intricate designs—flowers, vines, stars, sacred symbols, and geometric
patterns—before being applied to carved wooden surfaces using natural adhesives. Finally, the
finished piece is sealed with varnish for protection and luminosity

Class Includes:

  • Materials Provided
  • Safety Precautions
  • Step-by-Step Process

Register HERE

Contact Gabriela Silva at 505-692-3086 for more information.

February 21, Micaceous Bean Pot, Serving Dishes

Class Title: Micaceous Bean Pot, Serving Dishes  

Date: February 21, 2026 

Location: Los Luceros Historic Site

Description: Micaceous clay pottery is one of the most celebrated traditional arts of Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. Named for the tiny flakes of mica naturally embedded in the clay, this pottery is known for its sparkling surface, durability, and its unique ability to be used directly for cooking.

Register HERE

Contact Gabriela Silva at 505-692-3086 for more information.

March 21 - Sewing Seeds for a Heritage Remedios Garden

Class Description: In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore the ancestral gardening traditions of Northern New Mexico and learn to plant the same medicinal herbs used by generations of healers and families. Together, we will discuss the cultural importance of remedios, seed saving, seasonal growing cycles, and the practical steps needed to start a small home or community healing garden.
Participants will plant seeds from traditional herbal plants—such as yerba buena, manzanilla, lavender, and others—while learning their uses, harvesting methods, and stories handed down through time. Each participant will take home planted seeds and a simple guide for tending their plants throughout the year.

This workshop encourages reconnection with the land, cultural memory, and the healing knowledge rooted in our communities and families.

Register HERE

Contact Gabriela Silva at 505-692-3086 for more information.

April 25, Making an Indoor Mini Remedios Greenhouse

Date: April 25, 2026

Time: 

Location: Los Luceros Historic Site

Description:
In this creative hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to build a small indoor mini greenhouse designed specifically for growing traditional remedios herbs at home. Even without outdoor space or garden beds, families have long found ways to nurture healing plants year-round—and this project brings that heritage indoors.

Register HERE

Contact Gabriela Silva at 505-692-3086 for more information.

May 16, Creating a Micaceous Tea Pot

Date: May 16, 2026 

Time: 

Location: Los Luceros Historic Site

Description:

Explore the rich heritage of Northern New Mexico  pottery in this hands-on workshop where students will create their own micaceous clay tea pot. Known for its shimmering surface and cultural significance, micaceous clay has been used for generations in everyday cooking and ceremonial practices.

In this class, participants will:

  • Learn about the history and cultural importance of micaceous clay in Northern New Mexico.
  • Prepare and hand-build a functional tea pot using traditional techniques.
  • Form the body, spout, handle, and lid, ensuring it is suitable for ceremonial use.
  • Discover decorative methods that honor heritage while allowing personal expression.
  • Gain guidance on drying and firing the pot for a sparkling, durable finish.

By the end of the workshop, each participant will leave with a unique micaceous tea pot crafted for ceremonial and heritage use.

Register HERE

Contact Gabriela Silva at 505-692-3086 for more information.

Class Title: Mug Rug Weaving

Date:  Saturday, June 20, 2026

Time: 

Location: Los Luceros Historic Site

Description:

Discover the art of weaving in this creative and hands-on workshop where you’ll make your own mug rug—a small woven mat perfect for your coffee or tea cup. Mug rugs are not only functional, but they also offer a charming way to bring handcrafted heritage into everyday life.

In this class, participants will:

  • Learn the basics of loom weaving, including warp, weft, and finishing techniques.
  • Create a personalized mug rug using color, texture, and pattern of your choice.
  • Explore traditional and contemporary designs, drawing inspiration from local heritage and natural materials.
  • Gain practical tips for weaving, finishing, and caring for your handmade piece.

No prior weaving experience is needed—this workshop is perfect for beginners and fiber enthusiasts alike.

Register HERE

Contact Gabriela Silva at 505-692-3086 for more information.

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