Why did you become a member of the Fine Arts Center?
I became a member of the FAC when we moved to town in 2007. We had moved from a small town in Missouri and were ready to enjoy everything Colorado Springs had to offer. I think that the FAC is a little GEM.
When did your interest in the arts begin?
My grandmother taught violin and piano and she felt that all the arts must be enjoyed and it was her duty to introduce her grandchildren to museums, concerts and plays. My sister owned an art gallery and I was exposed to contemporary and modern art through her gallery. In the 80s I went to the Cody Museum and I was so delighted in the different American Indian exhibits that I stayed in the museum for hours (since I am one of those people who like to read all of the accompanying exhibit information) while my young family toured Cody, WY.
What has been one of your favorite plays, classes or exhibits at the Fine Arts Center and why?
This year we bought season tickets to the theater and I positively loved the musical White Christmas. Wait until Dark and Driving Miss Daisy were both delightful and as I write this I look forward to 9 to 5: The Musical. We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful theater company and Scot Levy.
What is your favorite work of art at the FAC?
I have been a docent here at the FAC for about 7 years and I enjoy seeing Miss Elsie Palmer by John Singer Sargent whenever it is on display, but my favorite artists are Pard Morrison and Floyd Tunson, who are both local artists. I enjoy seeing their work and introducing the tour groups to it. El Mac’s exhibition surprised me because I did not expect to like it as much as I did. I think that Blake and Joy (Museum curators) do a wonderful job of exposing us to different kinds of art and artists. One of the best parts of being a docent is the ever evolving education on the artists in the FAC collection and how they do their craft. We are also exposed to education of the Native American and the American Southwest.
What else do you do for fun in Colorado Springs?
I really enjoy being a docent here at the FAC but I am also a member of The Woman’s Club of Colorado Springs. As part of the Woman’s Club, I volunteer in the Partners in Housing donation room and I am the Boy Scout Eagle project liaison. I am a member of a giving circle called ½ the Sky. I volunteer at my church and try to see my grandchildren as often as possible. I will be taking two classes at Bemis School of Art this summer. We also like to travel whenever we can.