In the weeks since reopening, the CSPM has welcomed over 19,000 visitors! This exciting and energized time for the museum has only been possible with the support of our dedicated volunteers. They have gone above and beyond to aid in the museum’s efforts to successfully reopen.
This month, we’d like to recognize our volunteer Gallery Attendants. The team includes 6 returning volunteers and 7 brand new volunteers, all eager to learn and share. The volunteers work specifically in the 50% of the Story: Women Expressing Creativity exhibit. Women’s art represents approximately 10% of works collected by museums. 50% of the Story transforms the CSPM collection to more accurately reflect the complexity, diversity, and uniqueness of the Pikes Peak region. Using historic artwork and artifacts, alongside contemporary pieces, the 50% exhibit creates a beautiful conversation between women across time, demonstrating how they’ve always told their stories through art and creativity.
This new exhibit presented unique opportunities to engage visitors of all ages with a variety of activities and conversations. With the help of our Gallery Attendants, guests can feel the textures of the featured art (on our mini “touch canvases”), participate in an “I Spy” scavenger hunt, make collages with felt, and play with quilt patterns. Additionally, volunteers keep the art safe by educating guests on why we are careful not to touch or bump into any of the works.
With over 150 items in the gallery, it’s been a space of fascination for the public, quickly cultivating support, curiosity, and appreciation. Along with museum visitors, the Gallery Attendants have been inspired by the powerful premise of the 50% gallery.
“I love the emphasis on women artists”, remarks volunteer Allison, who was inspired to volunteer with this exhibit for its unique message. “But more than just being a space of great female creativity, it’s a gallery that really expresses different types of creativity. It’s open and inviting, and has all different stuff showcased – item to item – from the wood sculpture to watercolors to the videos and poetry.” Allison explained how the 50% gallery functions as an excellent “jumping off point” for museum visitors, as the content provides exposure not only to art from the Pikes Peak region, but also the history and important visuals of the area. It’s multifunctional, educating and inspiring its visitors, while maintaining the powerful message that female-driven creativity is important and impactful.
Thank you to our wonderful team of Gallery Attendants!
"I love the emphasis on women artists. But more than just being a space of great female creativity, it's a gallery that really expresses different types of creativity. It's open and inviting, and has all different stuff showcased - item to item - from the wood sculpture to watercolors to the videos and poetry"
