Georgia O'Keeffe painted the landscapes of Ghost Ranch in New Mexico.
Ghost Ranch is a retreat and education center near Abiquiú in northern New Mexico. O'Keeffe first visited the area in 1934 and returned frequently, eventually maintaining a residence there. Its eroded cliffs, colorful hills, broad skies, and unusual geological formations became recurring subjects in her paintings.
Her New Mexico work was not simply topographical recording. She simplified and enlarged elements of the landscape, using distinctive viewpoints and strong color relationships. The region also helped separate her artistic identity from the New York art world. Ghost Ranch and Abiquiú are neighboring but distinct places: Ghost Ranch was a landscape source and residence, while her restored Abiquiú house became her principal home.