For years, my favorite free-time cultural activity close to home has been the Currier Museum of Art. After many hours of training, I frequently enjoy volunteering as a Gallery Guide, strolling around and discussing art with various visitors who are willing to chat about a piece or two. Whether it's oil paintings by Monet or O’Keeffe, watercolors by Homer or Hopper, sculptures by Remington or Frishmuth, or simply admiring the hundreds of paperweights donated by Henry Melville Fuller, any of these can lead to learning from each other or simply sharing their art. If one appreciates old furniture, there is one piece dating back to 1785 attributed to the Dunlop family of Bedford. 

Following all this ' walking and viewing, ' you can view mosaics designed in Venice, Italy, by Salvatore Lascari in the Henry Melville Fuller Winter Garden for simply a drink or substantial munching. Also connected to the museum is the opportunity to visit two homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright: the Zimmerman and Khalil homes. Those interested in a tour can find more information on the Currier website. 

And my personal favorite in the Currier’s collection? As of today, it is an oil painting by Edward Hill entitled Cog Railway. I think this choice is partly inspired by the way both the Currier and Mt. Washington represent some of New Hampshire’s most cherished treasures. For these and others of such quality, I feel blessed to reside in this state.

The Currier is extremely grateful for its volunteers and the diverse range of views and experiences they bring. The next opportunity for volunteers to join will be to become a Frank Lloyd Wright guide. In the spring, a 10-week class (scheduled once a week) will be offered for this. Information on volunteering can be found on the Currier website at currier.org/volunteer/.