Seven exceptional AGO volunteers received awards last month for their service. This week we learn a bit more about Mary Kirby, Prints and Drawings (20 year award).
Mary receiving her 20-year award from MPP Han Dong
Mary’s involvement at the AGO has spanned 23 years, always as a volunteer in Prints and Drawings, which she insists it is the “best placement in the gallery.” After graduating from U of T with a degree in Art History, Mary started volunteering at the Barnes Exhibition in 1994 and has gone on to provide guided tours, research, and public program assistance. She has given many of the monthly free talks at Prints and Drawings and has even acted as a P& D animateur for First Thursdays. She’s done it all!
Describing Chardin’s Jar of Apricots as her “holiest of holies, ” Mary says she always “pays homage” en route to P&D. “It’s especially spectacular since its recent restoration!” Her most memorable AGO event is The Andy Warhol extravaganza in 1998 when The Factory was recreated on opening night, complete with 30 Marilyn Monroes, 20 factory boys in full body glitter, winged angels, and Grace Jones as guest performer!
Mary’s background is in clinical psychology. She currently has a part-time practice in Oakville, where she lives with her family. Mary is also busy with her other interests which include gardening, travel, hiking, biking, film, theatre and her two fur-children, Kerry & Rusty, both Standard Poodles. Soon she can add doting grandmother to her list, as she is expecting her first grandchild this summer!
Congratulations on your award Mary – we look forward to your continued involvement at the AGO!
– Cara-Lynn Nisenbaum (Prints & Drawings)