New Mexico’s ARTSLab Drives Immersive Technology Access and Education
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the University of New Mexico’s ARTSLab is spearheading efforts to broaden access to immersive technologies across the state, receiving congressional funding from NASA to launch the Artemis in 3D STEAM Challenge and Training Program. This initiative addresses a critical barrier to entry: the high cost and complexity of both hardware and software associated with technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
Bridging the Immersive Technology Gap
Recognizing that AR and VR equipment often remains siloed within university departments due to management challenges, the ARTSLab established the Community Immersive Technology Hub (CITH) in the fall of 2024.The CITH serves as a central resource, aiming to make these powerful technologies accessible to a wider community of researchers, students, educators, and artists. immersive technologies, encompassing VR, AR, mixed reality (MR), and immersive virtual worlds (IVWs), are defined by their ability to create interactive and engaging experiences for users. Immersive virtual reality specifically aims to create convincing digital environments that feel real to the user.
Neon Forge: A Cultural VR Experience
A prime example of the CITH’s impact is “Neon Forge,” a virtual reality experience developed by graduate student Ella Pigg and undergraduate student Finn Ellis for the Bands of Enchantment Music Festival. Inspired by the iconic neon signs of Route 66, Neon Forge connected the festival with New Mexico’s cultural heritage while providing attendees with a hands-on, immersive experience. Participants could design their own virtual neon signs and sculptures, exporting their creations as GIFs or 3D files.
The design of Neon Forge prioritized accessibility, offering tools for both beginners and experienced VR users. As Pigg explained, the game was designed to be scalable, allowing users of all skill levels to participate and enjoy the creative process. The project’s popularity was evident in the 45-minute wait times experienced by festival attendees eager to try the experience.
Empowering Educators with Unity Skills
In the summer of 2025, the University of New Mexico partnered with Unity, a leading progress platform, to offer the Unity Educator Upskilling Workshop. This free program provided 15 educators from various new Mexico institutions – including UNM, Central New Mexico College, Albuquerque Public Schools, and Explora – with comprehensive training in Unity game development. The 13-week virtual workshop covered skills in game design, programming, and 2D/3D modeling.
Complementing the workshop, Unity and the ARTSLab also offered online courses and webinars lead by Unity Certified Professionals, showcasing the platform’s versatility across diverse disciplines.
Expanding Access Through Workshops and the XR Archive
The CITH continues to expand its outreach through community-led workshops, many of which are publicly available online. These workshops aim to demonstrate the real-world applications of immersive technology and provide accessible learning opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds.
Recognizing the value of experiential learning, the ARTSLab is also developing the XR Archive, led by museum studies graduate student Prescott Moore. This archive will allow users to experience and study VR and AR games as a form of research,addressing the current scarcity of opportunities to directly engage with these projects outside of demonstrations or documentation.
Looking Ahead
The ARTSLab’s initiatives demonstrate a commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity in the realm of immersive technology. By prioritizing accessibility, education, and community engagement, the CITH is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of these technologies in New Mexico and beyond. The team’s passion for exploration and willingness to embrace new opportunities are key to their continued success.