MUSEUM SHOPS | OCTOBER 2023

Vladem Shop Now Open

The building and opening of the new George Duncan and Sheryl Kelsey shop at the NM Museum of Art- Vladem Contemporary involved a collaborative effort from a team of amazing individuals. Truly a labor of love. Each of these people played a crucial role in bringing the store from concept to reality:

It all began several years back with Devendra Contractor and Deirdre Harris, the Vladem designers who created the store layout and materials. We were able to run with their vision, creating an open and inviting space with an aesthetic that reflects the feel of the museum.

Wilson Scanlon, MNMF Board head of Maintenance and Repairs, was invaluable. He served as our in-house Project Manager overseeing the construction and partnering with me and with Oliver Clark to get the store completed. His daily appearance insured the project was on schedule.

Our Contractor, Oliver Clark, did a fabulous job of coordinating the subcontractors. His building and installation of the signature slatted wood ceiling element was nothing short of miraculous.

New Mexico Cabinet Makers Ernest Thompson Furniture built our beautiful jewelry cases, wall cabinets, and free-standing tables.

My team was phenomenal. Kylie Strijek, Buyer and Webstore Manager, was my partner in sourcing an eclectic mix of contemporary art, jewelry, and design gifts both local and international. Jonah Smith sourced the books to reflect the museum collection and inaugural exhibit Shadow and Light, while Susie Little sourced the paper-goods. Krista Kernek received and ticketed the onslaught of incoming products in addition to our regular shipments for the other stores while George Mayer added countless additional deliveries to his schedule. We took possession of the space for stocking on Tuesday night and had the store open for the Gala event on Wednesday at 5:00PM. Unbelievable! This team was joined by volunteers Pamela Kelly, Cynthia Bolene, and Harriet Schreiner the day of set-up to make it happen. My deepest gratitude to all!

Gabe Aguirre, our newest team member and Vladem Store Manager, did an incredible job of jumping in with both feet and taking the lead in customer service. Vince, Liz, Fela, and Chris store managers at our other museums all participated in Gabe’s crash-course training, while keeping their own store sales up over 7% MTD!

I am blessed to work with this wonderful group of people.