This weekend I was so excited to hear that museums were opening back up in New Mexico I have always loved museums. Growing up in rural, Eastern New Mexico there weren’t a lot of options to be exposed to culture or diversity. So when I grew up and got the chance to explore new parts of the state, that always included museums.
One of my absolute favorites was the Museum of International Folk Art. I’ve always loved the Girard Wing with over 100,000 pieces of folk art from countless countries. I remember taking my kids there over the years and seeing the joy on their faces looking at the pieces that all seem like fun toys.
Walking into the traveling exhibit on Japanese ghosts and demons was both enchanting and chilling. Definitely a wonderful surprise!
There is also a great wing dedicated to Hispanic Heritage. This exhibit honors everything from fashion to music and even features a piece on local acequias.
One of my favorite things in this museum is the motto outside of the Girard Wing that says “Tutto il mondo e paese” which means – “The whole world is hometown.” This sentiment really spoke to me. I love the idea that anywhere could be home. That since of wanderlust. I know I have had that inside of me all my life. The whole world may be hometown, but New Mexico will always be my favorite hometown.
I love the Museum of International Folk Art. I can’t wait to go back!