A Moment of Connection at the MFA
In the heart of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, a moment unfolds that beautifully captures the essence of art and connection. My daughter, Veronica, stands before a stunning painting by John Singer Sargent, her gaze fixed on the elegant figure of Mrs. Hammersley. This scene is not just a simple visit to an exhibit; it’s a celebration of artistry, history, and the deep bond we share as we explore creativity together.
As Veronica admires the intricate details of Sargent’s work, I can’t help but reflect on the layers of emotion that art evokes. The rich colors and textures of the painting seem to come alive, inviting us into a world where elegance reigns supreme. Sargent’s ability to capture the spirit of his subjects is nothing short of enchanting, and watching my daughter engage with this masterpiece fills me with a sense of nostalgia and joy. But beyond the beauty of the artwork itself, this visit to the museum stirs memories of another time in my life—when my own children were small, and museums were not just places of inspiration but also part of our daily rhythm.
A Look Back: My Time at the New Britain Museum of American Art
Years ago, when I worked at the New Britain Museum of American Art in Connecticut, I had the privilege of being part of the education team. I ran the Studio 4 program for teens, as well as various family and homeschool programs. It was a rewarding experience to introduce young minds—including my own children—to the power of art. If I had to work on holidays or during school breaks, I would bring my kids with me, and they loved every moment of it. They would play in the Discovery Room, create their own masterpieces in the downstairs studio, and, when they needed a break, run through Walnut Park just behind the museum.
The Joy of Being an Art Ambassador
One of my favorite aspects of working at NBMAA was feeling like an art ambassador. So many children—including my own—had never stepped into a museum before, and it was always exhilarating to see their eyes light up as they experienced artwork in person rather than through a screen. The paintings, the sculptures, the sheer scale of it all—it came alive for them in ways that no digital image ever could. And now, standing before these enormous Sargent paintings at the MFA—larger than life yet so lifelike—I felt that same sense of first-time awe and amazement wash over me.
A Family Experience to Remember
This visit was a special experience, not just for me and my daughter, but also for my husband, who shared in our admiration for Sargent’s work. The exhibit, Fashioned by Sargent, highlights not only the artist’s technical brilliance but also the narratives woven into each portrait. I was so moved by it that I had to return—this time with my son—recreating that same feeling of wonder with him.
Looking Ahead: A New Painting Series
I’m incredibly grateful to the MFA for hosting such an extraordinary exhibit. These moments of standing before masterworks, absorbing their presence, and sharing them with my family are priceless. Inspired by this experience, I plan to create a new painting series featuring my daughter standing in front of famous works of art. We already have our eyes on a Renoir from the museum’s permanent collection, and I can’t wait to see how this series unfolds.
Art has a way of transcending time, bringing past and present together in a single brushstroke. And for me, it continues to be a bridge between my own childhood, my children’s early years, and the creative legacy we carry forward.
Stay tuned for what’s to come—I’m excited to bring these museum moments to life on canvas!
