516 Arts' 'The Rest is Drag' Explores Route 66's Complex Legacy
In celebration of Route 66's 100th anniversary, 516 Arts in Albuquerque is hosting 'The Rest is Drag,' a curated group exhibition by Olivia Amaya Ortiz, from July 11 to October 10, 2026. This marks the final exhibit at the current downtown venue before relocating to a larger space on 1st Street. The show showcases the work of eleven artists and a duo, featuring talents such as D.C. ALLEN, Justin Favela, and Christina Fernandez. The exhibition's title draws from a quote by RuPaul, emphasizing drag's role in promoting visibility and cultural creation while addressing the historical racial exploitation along Route 66 and the reclamation efforts by Native artists. The opening event on July 11 includes a member preview from 5-6 pm and a public reception from 6-8 pm, with support from the Andy Warhol Foundation, the City of Albuquerque, and the Albuquerque Community Foundation.
Key facts
- Exhibition: 'The Rest is Drag' at 516 Arts, Albuquerque
- Dates: July 11–October 10, 2026
- Curated by Olivia Amaya Ortiz
- Features 11 artists, an artist collective, and a duo
- Final exhibition at current location before move to 1st Street
- Title from RuPaul's quote: 'We're all born naked and the rest is drag'
- Route 66 centennial milestone
- Supported by Andy Warhol Foundation, City of Albuquerque, Albuquerque Community Foundation
Entities
Artists
- D.C. ALLEN
- Justin Favela
- Christina Fernandez
- fronteristxs
- Apolo Gomez
- Vita Kari
- Jesse Littlebird
- Nate Lemuel
- Jonathan Loretto
- The Perez Bros.
- Eric Romero
- Rose B. Simpson
- Chris E. Vargas
- RuPaul
Institutions
- 516 Arts
- Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts
- City of Albuquerque Department of Arts and Culture
- Albuquerque Community Foundation
- Kouri + Corrao Gallery
Locations
- Albuquerque
- United States
- Route 66
- Old Town
- Nob Hill
- 1st Street
- Los Angeles
- Santa Fe