Hello Everyone,

• Yesterday the galleries were bustling. I walked through Mystical Landscapes with a trustee who marvelled at the number of school children and families enjoying the show together. The paintings in the exhibit – many created 100 years ago – demonstrate what great art is: timeless. The Eugène Jansson paintings once again struck me. They are extraordinarily beautiful but also have a deep sense of melancholy. As we celebrate the holiday season, do reach out to someone who might be feeling a bit isolated.

• I’d like to acknowledge the many people at the AGO who help maintain the building, our offices and communal spaces, and the technology we use. Shout-outs to Mike Peroff, Warren Wilson and their teams, and to Chris Steele and all the Information Technology (IT) folks. They keep the place sparkling and humming!

• I will be away for the next two weeks spending time with family and friends in Canada and the US. I wish you all the best of the season. Be safe and well, and enjoy the company of loved ones. There is much to look forward to in 2017 – and I’m grateful to be working with all of you.

See you on January 9,

Stephan