The AGO celebrated National Volunteer Week with a number of treats, including behind the scenes tours, baked goodies from staff coordinators, and recognition for longtimers. Here are some highlights:
On the beautiful sunny morning of April 28, Mike Mahoney (Executive Director,Operations and Special Projects) escorted 12 volunteers, clad in boots, security vests and hard hats, into our under-construction Grange Park revitalization project. Mike outlined the many new features: two playgrounds, water features, path system, off leash dog park, lighting, art elements and a new south entrance into the AGO. We were also introduced to the practicalities; washroom facilities, water reclamation, tree health, security and maintenance. The park is scheduled to open by late June – see grangeparktoronto.ca for more info.
Grange Park is operated by the City of Toronto but the land is under long term lease from the AGO. Design and funding for the revitalized park, including the /maintenance endowment fund /was managed by the AGO. The city of Toronto will provide maintenance 7 days a week to ensure Grange Park is a place the community will continue to enjoy.
Later on Friday, volunteers were also treated to Curator Kenneth Brummell walking through the rehang he has been overseeing of the gallery’s Modern collection, part of the Look:Forward Collection Re-installation project. It was a fascinating look at not only his choice of pieces but how they have been grouped to reflect themes and reinforce trends. Earlier in the week, volunteers gathered to hear Conservator Sherry Phillips and Collections Care Specialist John Williams (also a licensed mechanic), talk about Trans Am, Apocalypse No. 3, Artist John Scott’s 3,3000 lb doomsday vehicle.
Finally, recognition certificates and pins will soon be ready for over 130 AGO volunteers celebrating special milestones (5 years + of service) this year, to be distributed by the beginning of July. New this year: colourful pins for 5 and 10 years, joining the 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 year pins!
