The Museum of New Mexico, Office of Statewide Programs and Education has a
42 ft. RV that is fitted out with exhibition space, collection drawers, a
hands on work area, a library, video monitor, two computers with internet
access and an outdoor workspace under an awning. The Van of Enchantment
works cooperatively with community members to produce education programs
that combine museum and local resources. Because each program is tailored to
the interests of the community, we have no permanent exhibitions except for
those installed on our computers.

Van programs draw primarily on the resources of the units of the Museum of
New Mexico -- the 5 state monuments and the 4 museums of MNM, the Palace of
the Governors (state history), the Museum of International Folk Art, the
Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. Additionally,
we collaborate with the other divisions under the Office of Cultural
Affairs -- the State Library, NM Arts, Historic Preservation, and other
state museums. Usually at least 3 state organizations are represented in a
program.

The Van averages 3 trips a month. It has been operating for 14 months with
great success, based on the communities' responses and the crossovers of
museum staff who were originally opposed to the idea because it was
anticipated to be competition for scarce funds.

I find the great advantage of mobile museums to be that almost everyone has
a good feeling and curiosity about vehicles, while many have negative ideas
about the time and place for museums in their lives. The Van reinforces
citizen ownership of the state museums and their collections. Communities
are always excited and honored to have the Van in their towns. It is a vital
agent in a state where some cultures have perceived museums as appropriators
of spiritual and material culture.


Marcia deChadenedes
Van of Enchantment Program Coordinator
Museum of New Mexico

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