Linking up with Rebecca Jo at Knit By God's Hand for her Thankful Thursday meme.
My boss, Claire, asked me to answer some questions because there will be an article in our newsletter about my 20-years at the Museum and coming retirement. Her questions are in black and my answers to her are in the blue. When the newsletter comes out, I'll take a photo of the article. I know nothing else, except she told me my answers made her tear up. I did too as I wrote them. So this is my Thankful Thursday post. I am thankful for my time at Polk Museum of Art!!
What was your start date at PMA? My first day at PMA was March 17, 1997. It was a Monday and the beginning of a pay period (important for accounting purposes!). Ken Bailey was the Controller who was leaving. Need I mention that I loved my new corner office with such a beautiful view?
How would you describe your time here? My time here has been a lovely adventure! As someone who (at one time) wanted to be an art teacher, working in an art museum has been like a dream-come-true for me. To be surrounded by art and people who also love art made going to work each day such a blessing.
What have you enjoyed the most? Well, it's really not "what" I enjoyed most but WHO... to be a part of the incredible staff and the friendships I have formed with staff (and colleagues) has enriched my life in ways I can't begin to put words to. I still have friends from 20 years ago who have moved on from PMA but stay in touch. I enjoy monthly lunch dates with several women who worked here before and I look forward to more of those going forward into my retirement! I will always be ready for lunch with friends! Call me!
What would you like people to know about the museum? That your experiences in our galleries can be life-changing if you just let the art in. Be quiet and let the art sink into your soul. Spend time here. Be a part of this extraordinary organization. It's so much more than a building. Come inside. Be a member. Be present and be enchanted with what you find. I sure have been!
Share a memory or two that really stand out. Just two?! The Three Graces Symposium, in November 1997, with Miriam Shapiro, Faith Ringgold and Joyce Scott stands out above all else. Those amazing women artists brought tears to my eyes as they told us of humble beginnings and talked of the strong women in their lives. The auditorium was standing room only and we had attendees from across the nation. The corresponding exhibit of their work was brilliant. I could name so many memories of exhibits and artists - Robert Rahway Zakanitch's five huge decorative art pieces that filled two galleries, Gregory Barsamian's kinetic sculptures, Herman Leonard's photography, Jenny Bagert's photography, meeting John Szarkowski in person and getting him to sign my catalog of his photography...."To Terri, from your favorite artist, John Szarkowski"!! Wow.
Anything else you'd like to say? Just that a piece of my heart remains behind as I leave for my next adventure - retirement! I'm not going to say goodbye, though, because Joe and I are Advocate members and now I can attend events for fun!! I'll see you there
Thanks for your visit!! Be thankful always!! Love & Hugs.
