Sept. 14, 2004 issue

There's nothing like going eye to eye with a piece of art on a wall or a piece of sculpture standing on the floor. I think art is such an important part of our lives and many of us fail to experience its beauty and richness because we're too busy or it is not accessible. One of my goals for Ford Gallery is to reach out to the University and surrounding communities so that others can experience as many noteworthy exhibitions as possible.

Prior to 2001, managing the gallery and related activities was a part-time effort handled by me. Like the faculty who served as directors before me, the demands of teaching left little time to concentrate on a dynamic program. In 2001, I was hired to fill the full-time position as the gallery program director working directly with the art department. This gave me an opportunity to concentrate my efforts on the gallery and guest speaker programs. The results have been positive with major increases in attendance, better quality exhibitions and an exciting lineup of guest lecturers from around the U.S., Canada and Europe.

I really enjoy working at Eastern Michigan University because I'm surrounded by dedicated faculty and creative, motivated students. I also feel fortunate to be at an institution where strategic programs recognize the value of visual art and the administration provides the support and encouragement to make gallery programs a reality. There's a joy that makes every workday special, knowing that I get to work in an area filled with art, and people who appreciate the exhibitions we bring to Ford Gallery.

 

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