Applicants are encouraged to respond to our theme: Thresholds

As we stand a quarter of the way into the 21st century, the world finds itself navigating profound transformations. "Thresholds" invites artists and audiences to step into the spaces where change emerges—moments of transition, portals to new realities, and the boundaries that define or divide our collective futures.

From the accelerating impacts of climate change to rapid advancements in AI and technology, to shifting cultural and political landscapes, we face a pivotal moment in history. Yet here in Taos, a place of enduring strength, resilience, and community, we are reminded that the power to navigate these transitions comes from our deep seeded roots and connection to place. For centuries, Taos has been a threshold itself—a meeting place of diverse cultures, a landscape of natural beauty, and a community that thrives through connection and adaptability.

This theme challenges artists to explore the in-between spaces—where the familiar becomes the unknown, where boundaries blur, and where transformation is both a challenge and an opportunity. Through installations, projection, and performance art, "Thresholds" will not only illuminate the tensions of change but also celebrate the enduring spirit of Taos as a guiding force. Together, we will reflect on where we’ve been, where we are, and imagine what lies ahead in the high desert of New Mexico.

The PASEO started in 2014 as an outdoor arts festival connecting the 40th annual Taos Fall Arts Festival in the Downtown Historic District of Taos, New Mexico. In its tenth year, The PASEO has become the anticipated art event of the year, bringing out thousands of locals and visitors alike to fill the streets. Taos is a centuries-old Art Colony and home to Taos Pueblo, UNESCO protected and the oldest continually inhabited community in North America. Home to artists for centuries, The PASEO holds to the tradition of bringing artists from around the world to both inspire and be inspired.   

The PASEO engages the entire community through educational programs that happen before and during the annual event. The PASEO regularly partners with local arts organizations, local artists, Museums, and galleries in hosting these events. Events include lectures and talks, workshops, demos, local collaborations, and trainings. Applicants are invited to submit proposals for pre-teen, teen, and adults activities. Stipends available.

PASEO STEAM DAY: As part of the application process artists are invited to submit proposals for PASEO STEAM DAY: Artists who are engaged in the creative hybridization of cutting-edge technologies, art and science are encouraged to apply. If selected, artists are partnered with schools in Taos, encouraging art and science teachers to collaborate to enhance the STEAM (Science, technology, engineering, math + arts) component. Students work with their artist(s) up to one week prior (or in the summer) with possibilities of sharing their work live at The PASEO event. This program engages middle and secondary educational institutions in the art-making process. Additional stipends are available for eligible artists.

Application Requirements:

Project Statement

Project Proposal uploaded document

Includes title, statement, installation requirements, budget

Optional education program

Artist Bio/CV upload

Minimum of three images

$20 application fee (Free for Taos County Residents - enter coupon code FREETAOS)

Is there an artist fee granted for the selected proposal?

We provide stipends ranging from $500 - $3,000 (with larger projects funded at $5,000-$15,000). Stipend is contingent on size, complexity, and anticipated festival impact.

What should be in the budget?

The budget is what you need to comfortably carry out the installation and your participation at The PASEO in Taos, NM. See below for what we do and don't pay for.

What we pay for:

Travel and lodging, shipping and installation of your work in Taos, New Mexico for The PASEO festival, and misc. equipment or parts needed to present the work. A modest artist fee based on the scope of your proposal and current W.A.G.E standards is also provided.

What we don’t pay for:

The PASEO is unable to pay for new commissions or undeveloped works.

When will the artists be selected?

Selected artist will be announced by March 2025

Participation Liability Waiver

By submitting this Café online application for The PASEO, the participant agrees to the terms and conditions of this participation liability waiver.

1. I the Artist as participant am at least 21 years old.

2. Artist understands that this is a call for submissions. While all submissions will be considered, there is no guarantee the work will be accepted or shown. The Paseo Project has the right to cancel the event. If work is accepted, Artist agrees to complete a full contract with the organization.

3. RULES OF CONDUCT: All artists are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Any unruly conduct, refusal to follow rules or damage to property will be considered grounds for expulsion from the artist and risk loss of final payment. Artist is fully responsible for any damage to Town or Private property.

4. All participants are responsible for their own replacement, comprehensive and liability insurance. Applicants must obey all pertinent safety codes, laws, including but not limited to, fire, safety and parking regulations.

By submitting an application for The PASEO I warrant that I am of legal age and that I have read and fully understand the foregoing terms of participation outlined in this application.