April 18-24th is National Volunteer Week and this year’s theme is The Value of One, The Power of Many, reflecting on the generosity of all those who choose to volunteer in their communities. Here at the AGA, we have a robust team of volunteers who make what we do possible by helping out in a variety of ways all year long. We chatted with some of these amazing volunteers and this week we are proud to share some of their stories. First up, meet Meera Anand and a huge thank you to all of our volunteers for their continued support!
Meera Anand
What makes you passionate about helping local organizations/causes?
I believe in loving your city and making the most of the experiences it has to offer. I view volunteering as an opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, immerse myself in my interests and passions and most importantly, to give back to my community. Through volunteering, we can help leave a legacy behind, a story of an incredible city and the inspiring individuals who make it what it is. With all we have experienced this last year, it is critical that we are impactful. We hold so much more power than we think we do.
Do you have a favourite memory at the AGA, such as a favourite event or project you worked on?
I love the yearly Halloween Party that is hosted at the AGA. The amount of thought and consideration that goes into carefully curating this event every year, down to the name, is phenomenal. I can't wait for the next one!
What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering at the AGA?
If you are already considering volunteering with the AGA, this is the push you needed. Volunteering with the AGA is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the city, meet new people and unleash your creativity. Don't ever turn down a chance to expand your experiences.
Thanks, Meera!
Garon Grey-Thunder
What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering at the AGA?
If you are considering volunteering at the AGA, this would be a great opportunity to meet new people and get valuable work experience transferable to other fieldwork. The staff at AGA are very supportive of volunteers with guidelines to the Art Gallery and expectations. Also, Volunteering at the Alberta Art Gallery is fun and fulfilling to my life; being part of an event or guest speaker has connected me to others and ideas, which has brought understanding into my life. It strengthens my ties to the community and broadens my support network, exposing me to people with common interests, neighbourhood resources, and fun and fulfilling activities.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
One of the best things about volunteering is meeting the other volunteers! They are likely to be fascinating and inspiring people and might turn out to be great friends too. Often as I volunteer at the AGA, I am learning new knowledge about artists and the art itself. Opening my mind to new ideas and ways of thinking has brought understanding into my life.
Do you have a favourite memory at the AGA, such as a favourite event or project you worked on?
One of my favourite memories volunteering at the Art Gallery of Alberta would have been the Sobey Art Award in 2019. After helping and volunteering and doing what was needed of me, there was time for me to see the nominations and hear some of the comments and see reactions from some of the guest speakers. Which was a great honour and opportunity because I would not have been standing there with inspirational people if the AGA did not have volunteer opportunities. The event was very inspiring and helped me succeed within my learning and studying journey, being a student. During that event, I could recall that it sparked self-belief and self-confidence in myself, which pushed me into a successful direction today that has prospered my life.
Alex Ligtermoet
How long have you been volunteering with the AGA?
I have been with AGA since September 2019.
Do you have a favourite memory at the AGA, such as a favourite event or project you worked on?
I really enjoy assisting with the children's education art classes & events. Exploring & discussing different techniques (such as printmaking, clay sculpturing, stop motion, dioramas) Being able to help bring a kid's imagination into reality is a lot of fun. I look forward to future events.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
My favourite part of volunteering at AGA is being a part of a diverse community of artists, developing new interests and skills that I might not have otherwise discovered!
Marnie O’Brien
Tell us about your experience volunteering with the AGA!
I started volunteering as an Exhibition Guide in 2013.....8 years ago. The most enjoyable part of volunteering at the AGA is definitely being in the gallery and talking to visitors about art. Whether they are first-time visitors or long-term regulars, I always enjoy the conversations and questions, and the chance to gain new insights into works as seen through others' eyes. It’s so rewarding to talk with visitors about the artist’s inspirations and ideas and most often we both come away with a new perspective. I usually work Thursday evenings or weekends and love to be there when the gallery is busy and full of energy. Kids in the gallery really make me smile and often make my day... they bring such great energy and have the most interesting comments and questions!
Nicoletta De Angelis
How long have you been volunteering with the AGA?
About 10 years.
Do you have a favourite memory at the AGA?
Some of the week-long art camps are among my favourites, and also Art on the Block. But then I think about the Refinery, the All Day Sundays, the Art openings, it's so hard to choose from!
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I've always liked the atmosphere of the gallery, being inspired by the art. Also, the lovely people I got to work with.
What makes you passionate about helping local causes?
It feels good to give what you can and help others. If you think about it, to give is as rewarding as to receive. Without volunteers, a lot of programs wouldn't exist, and that would be a shame.
Describe a time when you were volunteering and someone made you smile
I remember all the smiles of the kids after they've finished a project and they're so proud. You can feel their gratitude for the help you gave them.
What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering at the AGA?
If you have time to invest and like being around people, do not hesitate. It is such a wonderful and enriching experience.
