I’m known as the “Art Museum Lady” by many people in north central Wisconsin. It doesn’t bother me. I’m glad they remember the Woodson Art Museum and associate me with it.
Scene: An art museum lady enters stage left, dragging out a large box with the words “Soap Box” on the side. Coming center stage, she rests the box and stands on top of it.
Art Museum Lady: “You can imagine I’m a firm believer in the arts; I mean I work at an art museum. But I’m also a mom, wife, daughter, sister, and friend – all of the people I’m connected to know that m
y belief in what the arts provide goes deeper than my job. I incorporate art into family gatherings, exchanges with friends, and even my Facebook page. Art is central to my life – my first memories are of drawing (in the way back of our family’s dark blue station wagon, on computer paper with black ballpoint pens).
“I understand that some people think art isn’t for them or that they’re not artsy. I disagree because I think everyone can enjoy some form of art, whether it’s visual arts, music, dance, theatre, or movies. Just because you’re not involved in the production doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the product. Everyone can, and I’d argue that everyone does enjoy some form of art.
“The connection with art starts before we enter the world. Some expecting parents play music for their offspring in utero. Exploration continues as babies, toddlers, and children investigate their world through bright colors and shapes, through lullabies and songs, and thro
ugh the all-important playing make believe. The journey continues at school, painting at easels with smocks on and stacking blocks until satisfied, only to knock them down and start over again.
“When children use art to express their creativity, they’re solving problems and thinking critically. These concepts are central to education, and the arts provide excellent opportunities to learn both.
“For me these are just some of the reasons we need art. I believe that creativity and engaging in the arts are essential to a high quality of life.”
Scene: The art museum lady steps off her “Soap Box.” Dragging the box behind her, she exits stage right.
If you agree with the Art Museum Lady’s Soliloquy, please comment or forward.
P.S. Stay tuned. I, the art museum lady, will drag out the “Soap Box” when the mood strikes.
