We asked this year’s award winners a bit about themselves. This week: Info Guide Michelle Abrams
How did you get started at the AGO?
The AGO has always been part of my life, in one way or another. When I graduated University and moved back to T.O. I decided that I wanted to volunteer. I was particularly interested because the Barnes Exhibit was coming to the gallery and I knew I had to be a part of it. I had studied Barnes and his collection in school (black & white images, as that was only permitted by the foundation at that point). As well, there was a position open for Costume Interpreter at the Grange. I loved dressing up, baking and history — so a perfect fit!
How long have you been here? What roles have you played here?
So, so long…over 20 years as I started in 1993. Hard to believe. I have been a:
Grange Interpreter 1993 until in closed — baked in the Historic Kitchen, was Historic Kitchen Chair for a couple of years and editor of the Grange Newsletter.
Meeter & Greeter and later Info Guide. Chair of the Meeters and Greeters before Transformation, and then Chair of the newly formed Information Guides.
I have been on the AGO Volunteer Executive in the role of Info Guide Chair, Community Relations Chair and Alumni Group Chair. As the Community Relations Chair started up and ran, with Frances Hogg, Volunteers Connect. Also sat as the Volunteer Ex-Officio on the AGO Board of Trustees for 2 years. Sit on the board of VCAM (Volunteer Committees of Art Museums) representing Eastern Canada primarily, on behalf of AGO.
What is your background? What are your outside interests/other volunteer gigs?
I have an Art and Art History background and have always been interested in the arts. I like to do creative things — whether to create or enjoy.
I am also a volunteer at the Royal Ontario Museum, and have volunteered for a children’s program called Explorer’s Club, ROMwalks (historical walks of Toronto) and in the past as a Gallery Interpreter.
What is your favourite work in the gallery? (Or, what has been your favourite/ most memorable show?)
This is hard…I would have to say the most memorable show was the Barnes. So long ago, but still my favourite experience. The buzz and excitement around the show, the great art and I volunteered with a fantastic group of people. It was so much fun. As for favourite work, way too hard to decide. However, the building itself is quite spectacular.
What is your favourite / most surprising / most satisfying memory/moment at the gallery?
Participating in Volunteers Connect. I am always amazed by the dedication and commitment of volunteers. Not just at the AGO, but at other cultural institutions in the GTA. Volunteers Connect allowed the sharing of ideas and issues with other organizations which was informative, enriching and stimulating.