City Announces New Leadership in Public Art Program

The city’s Department of Arts & Culture has selected Michael Ogilvie as its new Public Art Urban Enhancement Division manager following a competitive national search. Ogilvie stepped into the leadership role in November and brings a dynamic mix of experience, creativity, and vision to the department. Known for his collaborative approach and passion for community-centered art, he is already enthusiastic about guiding Albuquerque’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Ogilvie has over 30 years of experience in the arts and has led several public art programs. He relocated to Albuquerque from the Bay Area, where he was the public art director for the city of San José for nearly a decade. Previously he was the public art manager for Clark County, Nev., and the public art coordinator for Las Vegas, Nev. 

“Michael’s leadership comes at an exciting time for our Public Art Program,” Arts & Culture Director Dr. Shelle Sanchez said. “His expertise and passion for community-driven art will help us champion local artists, elevate public spaces, and keep weaving art into everyday life in Albuquerque.” 

Ogilvie’s public art efforts have maximized funding opportunities for artists; reduced tagging and gang markings by 80% in blighted neighborhoods; beautified buildings, bridges, and roadways; honored the fallen; memorialized the past; enhanced investment portfolios; reduced litter and pollution; and created gathering spaces for residents and marginalized groups to gather and unite. 

“With three decades of public art experience, I know and understand public art is not a luxury; it is a necessity, and it is as diverse and versatile as the communities we inhabit,” Ogilvie said. 

Ogilvie received a BA in art from the University of Nevada, Reno, and an MFA in painting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Upon graduating with his MFA, he was awarded the prestigious Joan Mitchell Foundation grant. He has exhibited his personal artwork and comics around the world. He has published five comics-centered art books and been published in numerous magazines and newspapers. His most recent iteration of illustrated stories, Territorial Legends, chronicles the overlooked and remarkable lives of obscure iconoclasts. 

Ogilvie now resides in Albuquerque with his wife, an educator and artist, and their two young children.

Albuquerque’s Public Art Program is one of the oldest and most robust in the country, stewarding a diverse collection of more than 1,100 works citywide. Through its 1.5% for Art ordinance, the program commissions, preserves, and promotes public art that reflects Albuquerque’s unique identity, celebrates its communities, and enhances public spaces. From large-scale installations to neighborhood projects and contemporary commissions, the program fosters creativity, supports artists, and brings art within reach of all residents and visitors.