Discover the Influence of Flamenco on New Mexican Art and Culture in a Summer Academic Program

Flamenco Holds Key Role in New Mexican Culture and Art

Flamenco has been a significant part of CNM Instructor Bridgit Lujan’s life and career, and she is thrilled to share her passion for it in her summer class titled “¡Ole! Flamenco in New Mexico.”

Having practiced flamenco since the age of 2, Lujan believes that this art form has helped her connect with her heritage throughout her life. She is eager to impart this connection to students and demonstrate how flamenco has become a vital art form in the state.

In this honors-style course, students will delve into the journey of flamenco, Spain’s renowned dance style, from being an imported art form to becoming a cultural cornerstone in New Mexico. They will also explore the historical figures, the University of New Mexico’s unique flamenco degree offering, and how New Mexico has become a prominent artistic and economic hub for flamenco in the United States.

Although students will not engage in dancing themselves during the course, they will have the opportunity to attend the 37th Festival Flamenco, the largest flamenco festival outside of Spain, which takes place during the Summer Term.

Lujan is excited about the chance for students to witness firsthand the history and impact of flamenco in New Mexico while studying the subject. Like other CNM honors courses, this class satisfies three core CNM Humanities credits and is easily transferable to UNM’s honors program.

Ultimately, Lujan aims for this course to help students not only grasp the significance of flamenco in New Mexican culture but also encourage them to explore their own heritage.
She believes that honors classes offer a platform for sharing ideas, listening to others, and understanding the bigger picture, with the hope that students will leave with a deeper appreciation of the unique role flamenco plays in defining New Mexican identity.

To enroll in “¡Ole! Flamenco in New Mexico” for the Summer Term, sign up for HNRS 1120-101, an online course that includes weekly live Zoom sessions or participation in class discussion boards.