Full STEAM Ahead at Balloon Museum in 2024

The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum marks the return of its popular STEAM Nights on Saturday, January 27 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This event for all ages features fun science, technology, engineering, and art activities along with the opening of The Art of Annularity exhibition. STEAM Night: The Art of Annularity is included with regular paid admission, and the museum's galleries will be accessible during the event.

Leading up to the annular eclipse on October 14, 2023, the City of Albuquerque’s Public Art Department called for temporary art installations to commemorate the eclipse passing over Albuquerque. Four artists were selected, and their works were on display at the Balloon Museum during the eclipse. Now visitors to the Balloon Museum will have the opportunity to explore The Art of Annularity, featuring the artists and their temporary eclipse artwork.

The exhibition showcases two sculptures from the temporary installations, along with a video featuring the artists discussing their artwork and videos of the two digital art installations. Featured artists will be at the opening to discuss their installations and answer visitor questions.

In addition to the art exhibition, the event will include activities such as a discussion about flying a balloon at night by local long-distance gas balloonists Barbara Fricke and Peter Cuneo; a radio-controlled balloon glow; hands-on glow-in-the-dark activities by Be Greater than Average; and music by DJ Chamar Valdez. The Munchie Truck will be onsite with nibbles for purchase.

Tickets are available in advance at https://artsandculture.cabq.gov/2375/3348 or can be purchased at the door.