The University of New Mexico-Taos is pleased to present Howl: The Voice of UNM-Taos 2023 Art & Literary Journal. In its third year as a digital publication, Howl continues to use this format to uphold greater inclusion and representation of Taos creatives. The 2023 edition presents 60 artists, writers, and filmmakers as well as Fine Arts, Film and Digital Media faculty and special projects by the Early Childhood Education Department and the Chicana and Chicano Studies Department. The diverse array of participants includes students from UNM-Taos, alumni, faculty, staff, and members of the greater community of Taos. This is also the first year Howl is prominently featuring a local professional artist. For this inaugural chapter, Howl presents Anita Rodriguez. 

The work in the 2023 edition of Howl encompasses a range of expression, all seeming to address the nature of humanity post-pandemic. Regardless of medium, all of the contributions are imbued with a celebration of life and a touch of humor, even works that directly address personal and collective grief. The writers take ownership of their authentic voices and allow the readers a window into their most vulnerable states. Drawings, paintings, photography, and prints move between fervent abstraction, traditional figuration, awe-inspiring landscapes and night skies, intimate settings, and emotional portraits, with many artists exploring large-scale installations, mixed-media, and digital processes. The filmmakers and video artists present dynamic music videos, hybrid animations, and inspirational content. Ceramic artists exhibit masterly skills in sculpture and hand-built and wheel thrown functional objects, many of which are highly adorned with abstract carving and representational imagery. The reopening of the metals program has brought forth a resurgence in metalwork and jewelry, all meticulously crafted in fine metals and stones. 

However the creatives in this book have chosen to express themselves, it is clear that they all embody fiery passion and resilience. They show us their desire to carry on traditions, pride in their cultures, reverence for their land, and their true unapologetic selves.

              - Sarah Stolar, Chair of the Department of Fine Arts, Film and Digital Media