Seven exceptional AGO volunteers received awards last month for their service.  This week we learn a bit more about Tamara Villagomez, Info Guide (20 year award).

How did you get started at the AGO?
I got started at the AGO with The Barnes exhibit, in 1994. I was there to see the exhibit, and as I provided feedback about it, I was asked if I would be willing to volunteer. And that was the timely question that brought about this long lasting relationship.

How long have you been here? What roles have you played here?
I have had the pleasure to be volunteering ever since 1994 with about a year hiatus precipitated by the “Transformation” construction period. I started off working at the shop / books section, followed by being a tour guide at The Grange. From the time The Grange tours were discontinued, I have been volunteering as an Info Guide.

What is your background? What are your outside interests?
Most of my career has been in the consulting engineering field, as the right hand of two presidents of two leading engineering firms. I am an Accountant / Executive Assistant. I have a penchant for art, history, travel, coupled with fitness (tennis, yoga, aerobics, hiking).

What is your favourite work in the gallery?
I have several favourite works. However, I am always drawn to Jacopo Tintoretto’s Christ Washing the Feet of the Disciples. Not only for the inspiring humility message it imparts, but for the remarkable rich colours and “chiaroscuro” or contrasted light and shadow effect in it.

What is your  most satisfying memory at the gallery?
One of my many memorable times was when the former Ontario Democratic Party Leader, Bob Rae, was in the shop. He approached me by graciously greeting me by my first name (he must have observed it on my lanyard). After a short dialogue he congratulated me, stating that it was commendable that I would be volunteering on weekends, apart from working full-time and having a family. I found him very sincere and down-to earth.

Congratulations Tamara!  Watch for further profiles!