A tour of New Mexico with Gov. Bill Richardson

Richardson, visiting the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe, says he loves art, particularly pottery.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

Sun-bleached cattle skulls have always been a natural decoration in the Western landscape but, in New Mexico, following the example of noted artist Georgia O’Keeffe, they have been displayed on traditional adobe walls and under wooden vigas on houses throughout the state.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

Val Kilmer, the Juilliard-trained actor whose film credits include “Batman Forever,” “Top Gun” and “The Doors,” is the grandson of New Mexican prospector. He owns a 60,000-acre ranch in Pecos, about 25 miles east of Santa Fe. He met Gov. Richardson, left, for a bite at the Tesuque Village Market.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, left, friend, actor and long-time local resident Val Kilmer and First Lady Barbara Richardson lunch on hearty traditional fare at the Tesuque Village Market.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

The high plains in the mountains of New Mexico are dotted with watering holes which have been created for cattle but also serve deer, antelope and whatever else is at “play.”  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

Wild horses freely roam the back country of New Mexico.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

Dramatic high mesas rise majestically from the desert floor near Acoma, N.M.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)

Bill Richardson served as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and as energy secretary under President Clinton. The 61-year old Pasadena native graduated from Tufts University, and was elected governor of New Mexico in 2002. He’s at home in Western duds, and enjoys horseback riding and skeet shooting.  (Paul Ross / For The Times)