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The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is committed to engage and inspire through the arts, gardens and education. A permanent collection of nearly 5,000 works of art on a riverfront campus offers more than 95,000 annual visitors a truly unique experience on the First Coast. Nationally recognized education programs serve adults and children of all abilities.

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DOCENT HIGHLIGHT: Marilyn Lawson

Oct

01

IMG_3425Each month the Museum highlights a individual from the Docent Corps at the Museum to shine a light on the hard work they do. Our dedicated Docents wrangle energetic school groups while educating the students on everything from traveling exhibitions to pieces in the Museum’s Permanent Collection. They also lead complimentary tours every Tuesday night at 7 p.m., as well as adult group tours made by reservation.

This month we are happy to highlight Marilyn Lawson. Thank you Marilyn for your heartfelt work and dedication to this institution! Below is a little about what Marilyn does, in her own words.

It has been so exciting to be part of the STEAM program at the Cummer for the past two years and to introduce so many bright young people to the interconnection of the arts and sciences. Further, it is very encouraging to meet and appreciate the many dedicated and outstanding educators in the Duval Public School system. They are an amazing group of professionals.

Having been a docent at several venues for many years, I would describe my job as that of a guide, helping guests discover something new each time they visit. It is hard to overstate the gratification of watching someone realize the complexity of a piece of sculpture, the interconnection of the gardens with the works in the other galleries or the fact that this is part of our local culture and who we are. My favorite aspect of being a docent at the Cummer is watching the excitement and appreciation of our collection develop in a visitor whether a young child, young professional or tourist. All of this combined with an environmental message about sustainability – what could be better!

Growing up in the Boston area provided many opportunities for enjoying visits to museums, art colonies galleries and university collections, so I guess it was natural for me to study art history. My husband of forty five years has reluctantly endured endless visits to museums, gardens and zoos and is thrilled that I am now able to put these experiences to good use so he can play golf.
Actually my time away from the museum does involve lots of rounds of golf as well. We also own a boat and love cruising the St. John’s exploring all the rivers, lakes and creeks along the way. If you see the “Aquavit” moored at one of the many docks along our river, bang on the side, gently please because she’s older, and come on board for a chat.

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Director of Art Education

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