When it comes to art, everyone has their own unique perspective and connection to certain pieces. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) recently showcased an exhibit titled 'A Few of Our Favorite Things', offering a fascinating insight into the personal choices and stories of the museum staff. This exhibit, a departure from the usual curator-led selections, provides an intriguing glimpse into the hearts and minds of those who work behind the scenes.
A Staff-Curated Exhibit
The exhibit was born out of a simple question: 'What is your favorite piece and why?' The response was an overwhelming collection of over 100 artworks, with staff members from various departments, including educators, shop employees, and even security guards, sharing their picks. Now, more than 30 of these favorites are on display, offering a diverse and personal insight into the museum's collection.
Portraits, Connections, and Style
One of the selected pieces is 'Portrait of Mercedes de Acosta', a life-size portrait painted by her husband, Abram Poole. Allyson Healey, the museum's permanent collections researcher, was drawn to this piece for its aesthetic beauty and the fascinating subject it portrays. Mercedes de Acosta, a poet, playwright, and suffragist, kept her maiden name and was known for her rumored relationships with prominent women. Healey notes that the portrait captures de Acosta's intriguing personality, even with minimal color, and her unique sense of style is evident, especially in the amazing shoes.
Cultural Reflections and Personal Growth
Diego Lopez, a security guard and Santa Barbara native, chose 'Dancing Figures' by Augusto Escobedo. This sculpture, with its fluid pose and Mexican wrestling mask, reflects Lopez's own cultural background and personal journey. He explains how the mask represents the expectations placed on Mexican men to hide their emotions, contrasting with the freedoms his sisters enjoyed. Lopez also selected 'Basket of Light' by Flor Garduño, a photograph of a young girl in traditional dress, which reminded him of his grandmother, a strong and independent woman who brought light to his life.
Motherhood and Universal Feelings
Lisa Benshea, who has worked in the museum's travel program for 19 years, chose 'Maternity' by David Alfaro Siqueiros. The painting depicts a concerned mother protecting her child, a sentiment that resonates deeply with Benshea. She believes the painting captures the universal feeling of motherhood, where there is both joy and weighty concern. Benshea's personal connection to the piece is evident, especially after noticing a second child wrapped in fabric, barely visible over the woman's shoulder, which she feels brings the painting together.
A Howl for a Better Tomorrow
Montserrat Capdevila, who worked as a nanny and teacher before joining the museum, selected 'Moon Dog' by Rufino Tamayo. The painting's style reminded her of Salvador Dalí, also from northern Spain. Capdevila interprets the painting as a powerful expression of hope, a 'big howl' for a better future after enduring hardships. She believes that Tamayo, like Dalí, had a 'big heart', a quality she sees reflected in the museum's staff and community.
A Deeper Reflection
This exhibit goes beyond the art itself, offering a glimpse into the personal lives and experiences of the staff. It highlights the emotional and cultural connections people have with art, and how these connections can shape our understanding and appreciation of a piece. It's a reminder that art is not just about the artist or the curator's intent, but also about the viewer's unique perspective and interpretation. The staff's choices and stories bring a human element to the museum, making it a more engaging and relatable space.
Conclusion
'A Few of Our Favorite Things' is a testament to the power of personal connection and the diverse perspectives that enrich our understanding of art. It's a beautiful example of how art can bring people together, inspire reflection, and create a deeper sense of community. Personally, I think this exhibit is a wonderful initiative, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on the museum's collection.
