The Aspen Way: Watercolor Landscapes by Jim Doyle Comes to El Zaguán

Historic Santa Fe Foundation presents “The Aspen Way,” an exhibition of watercolor landscapes by Santa Fe-based painter, author, and musician Jim Doyle.

The exhibition will be on view at the Gallery at El Zaguán on Canyon Road from October 2 through October 31, 2026.

About the Exhibition

Historic Santa Fe Foundation is presenting a vibrant new collection of watercolors by Santa Fe artist Dr. James Doyle. The exhibition highlights Doyle’s distinctive approach to capturing the iconic Aspen groves of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains through rich color, simple graphic lines, and dynamic energy.

The collection grew out of a personal tradition Doyle has maintained for 30 years: making annual spring and autumn trips into the high country of northern New Mexico.

“Aspen trees in the southern Rockies are a classic subject for many painters and photographers,” Doyle says. “I have been making annual spring and fall visits to our Aspen groves in the Sangre de Cristos for 30 years. It is a tradition of beauty, solitude, and crisp mountain air. This collection of watercolors is my approach to capturing the energy of these living communities with simple graphic lines and rich colors.”

Doyle works in a deep and vibrant style, pushing the traditional boundaries of watercolor through saturated tones, structural balance, and careful craftsmanship.

The paintings featured in The Aspen Way invite viewers to experience the vitality of the northern New Mexico wilderness through the eyes of an artist deeply connected to the region.

About Jim Doyle

Dr. James Doyle, born in 1959, is an American watercolorist, musician, and author based in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Holding a Ph.D. in International Studies, Doyle has dedicated much of his life to creative expression, scholarship, and lifelong learning. He began painting avidly in 2003 and developed a painterly style centered on beauty, balance, and meticulous craftsmanship within water media.

His artistic approach has been influenced by master painters including Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Andrew Wyeth, Edward Hopper, Charles Burchfield, Milford Zornes, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Arthur Haddock.

Through his work, Doyle explores natural forms, skyscapes, water, the distinct personalities of animals, and imaginary landscapes, while consistently working in a bold and vibrant style.

In addition to his visual art, Doyle is the author of three books and continues to compose music and paint from his studio in Santa Fe.

Watercolor Workshop with Jim Doyle

Saturday, October 24, 2026
1:00–3:30 p.m.

As part of the exhibition, Jim Doyle will lead a hands-on watercolor workshop focused on painting Aspen trees.

The workshop is open to artists of all experience levels. Doyle will share techniques for working with watercolor and guide participants through the process of creating their own Aspen-inspired work.

The workshop is limited to 10 students, and advance registration is required. All materials will be provided, and no previous watercolor experience is necessary.

Cost: $175 per person
All materials are included.

Exhibition Details

The Aspen Way
Watercolor Landscapes by Jim Doyle

Exhibition Dates: October 2–31, 2026

Location:
Gallery at El Zaguán
Canyon Road
Santa Fe, New Mexico

For additional information, workshop registration, interviews with the artist, or requests for promotional images, contact Anne Kelly with Historic Santa Fe Foundation at 505-983-2567 or anne@historicsantafe.org.