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Show Brigitte Kirk Steering Committe Chair's Holliday Greetings Words cannot describe magic moments we may experience on our tours. There is not a column on our time-sheets to record them. They are reasons we keep coming back for more, and so do the children. At UMFA there is always more than what you expect to see. Nancy Holt's sun tunnels and lecture, and the reception afterwards, was such an event for me. I first noticed something "different" as U of U students lined up and down the isles of the auditorium leaning against the railings. I sensed an undercurrent of anticipation. As Holt's lecture unfolded revealing sculpture parks throughout the world, I realized what an incredible artist she is, ahead of her time in the sixties and more than relevant today. At the reception, I saw Gretchen's face beaming, and I caught Ali's smile and knew this was a special evening for all at the museum. Some of you were fortunate to have experienced Nancy Holt's sun tunnels on sight, framing the sun as it passes the horizon at sunrise or sunset. ( I know Gretchen was there, because I saw her on facebook). In a few days we will experience winter solstice. As my friend, Raggs Reagan, former Rowland Hall School chaplain put it so well: "The sun will seem to return, it will stop wandering away leaving us in deeper and deeper darkness. The return of the sun, the growing light, and shrinking night have given occasion for people all over the world and throughout the ages to celebrate birth and rebirth whether in the form of ancient celebrations of the Mother Earth Goddess, whether the light comes from a brilliant star, a light in a manger, or a tiny cruse of oil which burned for 8 days or from the pure golden Arabic of Our'an or if you find your example in a statue of perfect stillness, the Buddha's own enlightenment, or the light festivities and love of Sri Krishna, all the traditions speak of light'. 'For some it is the miracle of sunshine to facilitate photosynthesis and sustain the food chain. We realize, 'the light is much more than sunshine, it is the light which enables people to see clearly to recognize the enormous value of life and our total interconnectedness. All these traditions call us to experience the light so that we can see the unique individuality of others.' Each time we guide, we have the opportunity to reach out to children and adults, allowing them to find their own voice, perhaps to ignite a spark of curiosity. 'Our lives gain meaning insofar as they are vehicles to further the lives and happiness of others'. The Museum is a place where we can do just that, and for that I am grateful. On behalf of the 2012-13 Steering Committee I want to wish you a Joyous Holiday and a Happy New Year! |
