Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New Mexico Gourd Society?
The New Mexico Gourd Society, also known as NMGS, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the horticulture and appreciation of gourds, gourd growing, and gourd arts and crafts. NMGS provides a supportive, sharing, and educational environment for people who enjoy learning about gourds and creating gourd art.
Do I need experience with gourd art to join?
No experience is required. The New Mexico Gourd Society welcomes beginners, experienced gourd artists, growers, teachers, and anyone who is curious about gourds. Monthly meetings, workshops, demonstrations, and member activities are a great way to learn new techniques and meet other gourd enthusiasts.
How do I become a member of NMGS?
You can become a member by completing the New Mexico Gourd Society Membership Application and paying the annual membership dues. Membership dues are currently $20 for the 2026 calendar year and cover January 1 through December 31.
You may mail your completed application and check to NMGS, or bring them to an upcoming meeting.
Where do I send my membership application?
Please make checks payable to NMGS and mail your completed membership application and payment to:
New Mexico Gourd Society
10512 Vecchio Drive NW
Albuquerque, NM 87114
What are the benefits of joining NMGS?
Membership benefits include access to monthly workshops, classes, demonstrations, lectures, gourd-growing education, local meeting reports, artist and grower connections, festival participation, and the opportunity to have a personal gourd art webpage in the NMGS Artist Gallery.
Does NMGS have monthly meetings or projects?
Yes. The New Mexico Gourd Society offers monthly projects, workshops, and learning opportunities throughout the year. These projects give members a chance to learn new techniques, create gourd art, and enjoy time with other members.
Where are NMGS monthly meetings held?
NMGS monthly meetings are held at:
Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church
8600 Academy Rd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Please check the Events or Monthly Projects page for the latest meeting date, time, project details, cost, and supplies.
Do monthly projects have a cost?
Some monthly projects may have a small project fee to help cover supplies and materials. For example, the June 2026 “Fun With Alcohol Inks” project is listed with a $10 cost. Always check the current event or project page for the most up-to-date details.
What kinds of gourd art projects does NMGS offer?
NMGS monthly projects may include decorative gourds, painted gourds, carved gourds, alcohol ink projects, pendants, bowls, night lights, spirit jars, and other creative gourd art techniques. Projects are designed to help members explore new ideas and learn from one another.
Can I attend a meeting before becoming a member?
Yes, guests and prospective members are encouraged to learn more about NMGS by attending a meeting or event. If you enjoy the group, you can complete a membership application and join the society.
Can NMGS help me learn how to grow gourds?
Yes. One of the goals of NMGS is to promote gourd growing as well as gourd arts and crafts. Members can connect with gourd growers, learn about growing techniques, and access educational resources through meetings, workshops, festivals, and other events.
What is the NMGS Artist Gallery?
The NMGS Artist Gallery features beautiful and unique gourds created by New Mexico Gourd Society members. Artist Gallery pages may include member artwork, artist statements, biographies, and personal stories about how members became inspired by gourds as an artistic medium.
How can I have my gourds featured in the Artist Gallery?
An Artist Gallery webpage is one of the benefits of annual NMGS membership. Members may submit photos of their gourds, a short biography, an artist statement, and optionally a photo of themselves to be added to their Artist Membership Page.
Does NMGS participate in gourd festivals and shows?
Yes. NMGS membership may include opportunities to participate in gourd festivals, competitions, displays, sales, classes, demonstrations, craft fairs, and other events where members can show their gourd art and learn from others.
How do I contact the New Mexico Gourd Society?
You can contact NMGS by email at:
You may also mail correspondence to:
New Mexico Gourd Society
10512 Vecchio Drive
Albuquerque, NM 87114
Where can I find upcoming NMGS events?
Upcoming events, monthly projects, workshops, retreats, and meeting details are listed on the Events and Monthly Projects pages of the New Mexico Gourd Society website.