Seven exceptional AGO volunteers received awards last month for their service. This week we learn a bit more about Maria Vidal, Youth (2 year award).
Maria receiving her 2-year award from MPP Han Dong
Maria found her volunteer position when she was researching university programs. She was thrilled to find an opportunity that combined her two favorite interests – the arts and working with children. Seeing the laughter and joy of families and their children as they play and create their own masterpieces is what Maria describes as her favourite moment at the gallery.
“The works of the AGO offer so much to enjoy; its a never ending cycle of awe,” says Maria. She feels she always discovers new meaning each time she passes the art and embraces its beauty. Although Maria says she loves all of the AGO’s work, her favourite exhibition was Guillermo del Toro: At Home with Monsters. “It was breathtaking and spooky all at the same time … he embraced his fantasies and brought them to life.”
Maria was born in Mexico and grew up in Canada. She started volunteering at the AGO in 2016 and has been working in the Hands-on-Centre since April 2017. Her volunteer involvement also includes community events, Habitat for Humanity and even a Mac and Cheese food festival! (Sounds delicious!)
Congratulations Maria!
-Cara-Lynn Nisenbaum