Fascinated by your thinking

Months ago, during a committee meeting, a small group staff and board members conceived of a new program at the museum which would bring in diverse audiences and empower the public in the curatorial process. We had invited a small group of the community to visit the vault, select a single work for exhibition, and write a label for the work. Today I got to glimpse the new program come into fruition.

I ran into the superintendent of schools as he was posing for a picture with the painting he had selected. I was so surprised to see his choice -- it was dark and somber. On first glance, it looked like black clouds over a desolate landscape, with large silver targets hanging in the sky. It seemed like such a strange choice for a person who, publicly, is full of positive energy. Now I am so intrigued to learn more about why he selected that particular work...

I almost wish we could give every community member this opportunity. It's such a great way to learn about people and the way they think. And that's what looking at art really boils down to - for me as a museum educator -- it's about learning about people and works by sharing thoughts and ideas. And the role requires someone who always has to be fascinated by other peoples' thinking.