The Muse - Winter 2023

The Columbus Museum Quarterly Magazine

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Winter 2022-23

Letter from the Director

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s we head toward the holidays, it is hard to imagine that it has been over a year since construction began on the Museum’s renovation. The architects, Perkins and Will, and the construction management firm, Freeman and Associates, are doing a superlative job keeping the project on schedule for reopening in May. We are excited to share the transformation of our building and grounds with you this spring!

If you have not seen Awkward Family Photos at the Museum’s temporary headquarters at 1327 Wynnton Road, I hope you will stop by and enjoy this fun exhibition, complete with an “awkward” holiday selfie station. This hilarious, family-friendly exhibition is one that everyone will enjoy.

This holiday season we have several activities planned at the Museum, including the 34th annual Master Circle Dinner on December 4, when we thank our Circle level members for their generous support. Cochairs Mint Flowers and Bob Vardaman have planned a festive evening to remem-

ber at the W.C. Bradley Company Museum that will kick off the holiday season in style inspired by our exhibition Flora & Fauna: Drawings from The Columbus Museum.

Join us for a Members & Friends Holiday Open House on December 14 at 1327 Wynnton Road, Family Saturday at the Museum on December 16, and a Winter Activity Kit Giveaway on December 21.

Additionally, we will have a new Art of Wreath-Making Class on December 3 which you won’t want to miss!.

In January, we have a unique Signature Sunday program with artist Sally Bradley for reciprocal members and above. She’ll share the inspiration behind her art and give a tour of her art studio. We also have a Smartphone Photography Workshop with local artist Eliza Daffin to give tips to improve your photography skills.

In February, please join us for the next Trivia Night with host April Norris and for a special Valentine Glass Maker’s Workshop. Our Artful Babies and Mini Makers programs continue through the winter.

The Columbus Museum brings

The Columbus Museum Temporary Headquarters: 1327 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31906 | 706.748.2562 columbusmuseum.com

for the communities of

Museum Hours: Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Thurs. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Sun. 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

American art and history to life the Chattahoochee Valley.

Museum Shop Hours: Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Thurs. 10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Sun. 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

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We no longer require pre-registration, and have had a full house for these programs, so please be sure to come early to get a spot and take advantage of these engaging programs.

Please consider joining us for a Members & Friends Bus Trip to Auburn and Tuskegee on February 23, when we will visit the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site’s Hangars 1 and 2 and a tour of the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Art. Don’t forget to peruse the Museum Shop for all of your holiday gift-giving needs this season! We are also offering Museum membership gift certificates, which provide your friends and family with a full year of enriching experiences and benefits at the Museum.

I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season as we look forward to all the new year will bring!

On the Cover:

Edward Swift Shorter, Surging Waters, 1960., oil on canvas, Gift of Edward S. Shorter, The Columbus Museum G.1974.42

As we look to the future of The Columbus Museum, we are honoring Edward Swift Shorter, the Museum’s founding director, with our cover selection for this issue.

Reimagining The Columbus Museum Update It has been only one year since we broke ground on our major renovation, and we are already planning for our reopening this spring. We are delighted to share with you that the renovation is continuing to progress on schedule and each day brings something new to see. It has been an inspiring and rewarding process to witness the building evolve into a brighter, more open, and welcoming cultural center for the community.

We removed the berm at the front of the building and laid down a new lawn to create a more visible and welcoming presence for the community. The Museum’s exterior courtyard is taking shape with the installation of a beautiful water feature.

The original stairs to the third floor have been relocated, allowing for a clear sightline throughout the building. Additionally, the children’s gallery and garden, history galleries, and orientation spaces are almost ready for installation by the exhibition design firms.

Installation of the new exhibit elements, interactives, and art and history collections will begin in early 2024. We cordially invite you all to participate in our exciting schedule of reopening events shared on the next page. We hope you save the date and join us for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration and unveiling of the reimagined Columbus Museum!

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Grand Reopening Schedule of Events Grand Reopening Gala

Grand Public Reopening

Friday, April 26 | 6 – 11 P.M.

Members and friends are invited to attend this spectacular evening as we kick off the reopening of The Columbus Museum.

Enjoy musical performances, and culinary delights as we unveil the reimagined building, new history and children’ s galleries, children’ s garden, special exhibitions and more!

Member Family Day

Sunday, April 28 | 1 – 5 P.M.

Members and their families are invited to this afternoon of fun and interactive activities in the reimagined Museum. Experience an exclusive first look at the new children’ s gallery and garden before the Museum opens to the public.

Saturday, May 4 10 A.M. - 10 P.M. Sunday, May 5 1 P.M.-5 P.M.

Museum On Tour Passport Day Wednesday, May 1 | 4 – 8 P.M.

Museum On Tour passport participants with two or more stickers are invited for a sneak peek of the Museum prior to our Grand Public Reopening.

The Columbus Museum’ s Grand Public Reopening kicks off at 10 A.M. with a celebratory ribbon-cutting followed by two days of nonstop fun and inviting programming and activities for visitors, including a special silent disco on Saturday evening!

Member Preview Night Thursday, May 2 | 4 – 8 P.M.

Members are invited to experience an additional intimate open house of the reimagined Museum featuring tours of the updated gallery spaces.

Do you love telling stories, engaging people in conversations, and learning? We’ d love to have you as a Museum Docent where you’ d be welcoming visitors of all ages and facilitating conversations and hands-on gallery experiences that foster lasting relations between our collection and the community. No education or experience in art or local history is required. Museum Docents receive an eight-week training course and a number of benefits including an annual bus trip, free membership, and more!

For information on becoming a docent, visit our website or contact Rachel Vogt, Academic Programs Manager at rvogt@columbusmuseum.com.

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In late 2022, noted collectors of American art Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson presented The Columbus Museum with 18 works—six prints, three paintings on paper, three drawings, four mixed media works, and two oils on canvas—by 12 different African American artists, several of whom are new to the collection. These compelling works were created by several prominent historic and contemporary African American artists, and this very generous donation is part of the Thompsons’ larger efforts to ensure that Black artists form part of the overall narrative about American art. Other institutions that have benefitted from the Thompsons’ generosity over the years include the Georgia Museum of Art, the High Museum of Art, and the Phillips Collection.

“We have always heard great things about The Columbus Museum, and we finally had the opportunity to visit a couple years ago, and we were not disappointed,” said Brenda Thompson. “We were impressed by the depth of the collection and of the strong presence of African American and southern regional artists. The presentation and connection to our region’s history made it a desirable institution for us to share these items with. We were happy to make this gift and to start this partnership in supporting The Columbus Museum.”

The Museum’s gift boasts pieces from some of the country’s leading African American visual artists including Richard Mayhew, Hughie Lee-Smith, Margaret Burroughs, and Cheryl War-

rick. Works by less well-known makers, such as Elton Fax and Jewel Simon, attest to the many and varied ways that African Americans have, over the course of the 20th century, pursued visual creative expression.

“We are delighted to accept this group of works by African American artists, which is a tremendous help in our ongoing efforts to diversify the collection,” said Marianne Richter, director of The Columbus Museum. “As the Museum’s holdings of African American art are still growing, adding works by artists not previously represented in the collection helps us fill some longstanding gaps. We look forward to sharing this important gift with our visitors and the wider community in a future gallery rotation.”

“It is always gratifying when folks outside the Lower Chattahoochee River Valley note our efforts to bring complexity and nuance to the Museum’s holdings—and then offer tangible support,” said Jonathan Frederick Walz, director of curatorial affairs and curator of American art. “The Thompsons are legendary philanthropists, and I am over the moon that they chose the Museum as the recipient of this remarkable gift.”

As always, The Columbus Museum is grateful to the many donors like the Thompsons who have entrusted us with designated purchase funds or gifts of art. The impact of the Thompsons’ donation on the collection and the community will be felt for decades to come.

Images: 1. Margaret Burroughs, On the Beach, ca. 1957, linocut, The Columbus Museum G.2022.73.3 | 2. Freddie Styles, Untitled (Red and Black) 1980, acrylic on paper The Columbus Museum G.2022.73.18 | 3. Jewel Simon, Begonias, print, 1951, The Columbus Museum G.2022.73.17 | 4. Elton Clay Fax, Woman, 1946, pastel on paper, The Columbus Museum G.2022.73.7 | 5. Hughie Lee-Smith, Untitled, 1945, pen and ink on paper, The Columbus Museum G.2022.73.9 All images: Gift of Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson in honor of the Museum’s 70th Anniversary 2023-2024 WINTER THE MUSE | 5

WINTER 2023-24 ART ACQUISITION

Noted collectors Larry D. & Brenda A. Thompson gift 18 works by 12 African American artists to the Museum

WINTER 2023-24 HISTORY ACQUISITIONS

Patton in Columbus Of the many renowned Army generals to have served at Fort Moore, one name appears most frequently in Chattahoochee Valley lore: Patton. By the time George S. Patton, Jr. (1885– 1945) arrived in Georgia, he had already competed in the 1912 Olympics in Sweden, fought in World War I, and served in Hawaii.

When World War II began in Europe in 1939, the U.S. Army mobilized its forces and Patton was rapidly promoted, arriving in 1940 at what was then Fort Benning.

In December of that year, he directed the more than 2,500 tanks and vehicles of the 2nd Armored Division to Panama City, Florida, and back, observing from the air to study how the division could be effectively deployed. Nearly 11,000 soldiers made the trek in two columns on either side of the Georgia-Alabama border. Patton was promoted to commander of the I Armored Corps in January 1942. Before deploying to North Africa in the fall of 1942, Patton enjoyed Columbus’ warm hospitality for Army officers, attending dinner parties and famously developing a love of Country Captain Chicken. He also waged a war of words with nightclubs and gambling establishments in Phenix City, threatening to roll his tanks over the entire town to eliminate distractions to his soldiers.

In this letter from February 1942, General Patton offers words of encouragement to a major at Fort Knox, Kentucky, who felt overlooked for a promotion. Writing on I Armored Corps stationery,

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Patton writes: “…Personally, I should be very glad and, in fact, delighted to have you as a battalion commander, because I believe your experience should be very helpful. I would not be downhearted just because I have been jumped. I was

jumped in the last War and in this one, and have not suffered by it in the end.”

Image: Maj. Gen. George S. Patton letter, written on HQ I Armored Corps stationery, Fort Benning, 1942, The Gladys Dudley History Fund, The Columbus Museum G.2023.23

Since January 2023, The Columbus Museum’s education department has offered art making activities to Russell County, Alabama students who participate in the afterschool program at their elementary schools. The program takes place at Mount Olive Primary School, Mount Olive Intermediate School, Ladonia Elementary, and Oliver Elementary. In September 2023, the Museum also began offering art making activities to members of Mount Olive Intermediate School’s newly formed Art Club to reach additional students not enrolled in the afterschool program.

During each monthly visit, educators bring a poster reproduction of a collection object and lead a discussion that encourages

close-looking and critical thinking skills. Students then get to apply what they have discussed to a hands-on art making activity and express their personal creativity. When asked what they thought of the program, a student from Ladonia Elementary said it was “the best art making day in the world!”

Rachel Vogt, the Museum’s Academic Programs Manager, at The Columbus Museum, says the program was a great fit with the Museum’s education-based mission. “There is a need in Alabama for arts programming in public schools, and offering this program to students in Russell County is one way we can serve our community and help them thrive,” Vogt said.

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Images: 1. A student at Ladonia Elementary in Phenix City, Alabama shows off his artwork inspired by Lee Krasner.

2. & 3. Students at Mount Olive Primary School make colorful sculptures with Model Magic inspired by Craig Nutt’s Tomato Table in The Columbus Museum’s permanent collection.

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4. & 5. Students at Mount Olive Primary School in Fort Mitchell, Alabama make collages inspired

by Madeline Jones’ Wonderful Garden by Romare Bearden.

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WINTER 2023-24 EDUCATION IMPACT

Education Department Offers Art Making Activities in Alabama Schools

WINTER 2023-24 UPCOMING PROGRAMS

December 3 Sunday

The Art of Wreath-Making Workshop 1327 Wynnton Rd. | 2 – 4 P.M.

$65 for members, $75 for non-members Registration is required. Space is limited.

Create your very own beautiful holiday wreath to take home while enjoying light refreshments. All materials will be provided.

4 Monday (Members Event)

34th Annual Master Circle Dinner

W.C. Bradley Co. Museum | 6 P.M. Circle Members Only.

We look forward to celebrating a special evening with all of our Circle members. This breathtaking, black-tie event is a famed night of food, spirits, and the most exquisite décor. Mark your calendars for this anticipated night, co-chaired by Mint Flowers and Bob Vardaman.

7 Thursday

14 Thursday (Members Event)

13 Saturday & 16 Tuesday

1327 Wynnton Rd. | 5 – 8 P.M. | FREE

1327 Wynnton Rd. 10:30 – 11:30 A.M. | FREE

Members & Friends Holiday Open House

This is a drop-in event. RSVPs requested.

Experience the joy of our final tour exhibition, Awkward Family Photos. Take your awkward photo at our selfie station, share a drink at our cash bar with Uppity Lush, enjoy an array of tasty treats, and shop for unique goods at our gift shop.

16 Saturday

Family Saturday at the Museum 1327 Wynnton Rd. 10 A.M. – Noon | FREE No registration required.

Drop by every month for a new activity exploring the Museum’ s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions.

21 Thursday

Winter Activity Kits & Awkward Holiday Photos 1327 Wynnton Rd. 10:30 A.M. – 2 P.M. | FREE No registration required.

Supplies are limited.

Pick up a bag of supplies to complete an art making activity at home and stop by our Awkward Family Photos Selfie Station to get your own family portraits!

Curator Chat with Rebecca Bush

January

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Artful Babies

1327 Wynnton Rd. 5:30 – 6:30 P.M. | FREE

Join Curator of History Rebecca Bush for a short tour of our newest exhibition, Awkward Family Photos. Enjoy light refreshments and a fun and spirited discussion about the pitfalls of the perfectly imperfect moments that come with the family experience.

14 Thursday

Garden Volunteer Workday Bradley Olmsted Garden 9 A.M. – Noon No registration required.

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6 Saturday & 9 Tuesday 1327 Wynnton Rd. 10:30 – 11:30 A.M. | FREE

(Ages 6 – 24 months & caregivers) No registration required.

Each session includes playtime to explore books and hands-on objects as well as an art activity. Class size is limited. Arrive early to secure your spot.

11 Thursday

Garden Volunteer Workday Bradley Olmsted Garden 9 A.M. – Noon No registration required.

Mini Makers

(Ages 2 – 4 months & caregivers) No registration required.

Each session includes a chance to explore new art materials and create mini masterpieces to take home! Class size is limited. Arrive early to secure your spot.

19 Friday

Lunch & Learn: Washington Color School The Wynn House Lockwood Center Noon - 1 P.M. | FREE

Join us for an informative lunchtime presentation on Columbus-born artist Alma W. Thomas and the Washington Color School. Miriam Grotte-Jacobs, a Johns Hopkins-trained art historian, and Museum curator Jonathan Frederick Walz. Optional box lunch is available for purchase.

20 Saturday

Family Saturday at the Museum 1327 Wynnton Rd. 10 A.M. – Noon | FREE No registration required.

21 Sunday (Members Event)

Signature Sunday with Sally Bradley

Location received upon reservation.

3 P.M. | $20 per person

Reciprocal Members ($150) and above.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Enjoy a studio tour with local artist Sally Bradley as she shares the inspiration behind her art. Light refreshments will be served.

25 Thursday (Members Event)

Behind the Scenes with Rebecca Bush

1327 Wynnton Rd. | 5:30 P.M.

Patron Members ($500) and above.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Join Curator of History, Rebecca Bush, for an exciting first look at objects from the Museum’ s vault.

27 Saturday

Smartphone Photography Workshop with Eliza Daffin

1327 Wynnton Rd. | 10:30 A.M. – Noon (Ages 16+) $20 for members, $30 for non-members Registration is required. Space is limited.

Join us for a beginner-level workshop with photographer Eliza Daffin. Learn to elevate your technique and capture better images– all you need is your phone!

February 1 Thursday

Trivia Night with Host April Norris

1327 Wynnton Rd. | 6 – 8 P.M. (Ages 21+) | $15 per person

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Enjoy light refreshments. Tickets include wine, beer, and light refreshments.

2 Friday, 3 Saturday, & 4 Sunday

Valentine Glass Maker’ s Workshop

1327 Wynnton Rd. | 3 P.M. & 5 P.M.

$65 members/ $75 non-members.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Learn to make love-inspired hearts and cups! All materials are provided.

No experience is necessary.

3 Saturday & 6 Tuesday

Artful Babies

1327 Wynnton Rd. 10:30 – 11:30 A.M. | FREE

(Ages 6 – 24 months & caregivers) No registration required.

3 Saturday

Painting Workshop Series 1327 Wynnton Rd. | 2 – 3:30 P.M.

(Ages 6 – 10) $100 per student.

Cost includes all four classes.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Instructor Lesley Jakovcic will lead participants through a series of activities utilizing both watercolor and tempera paints.

6 Tuesday (Members Event)

17 Saturday

1327 Wynnton Rd. | 5:30 P.M.

1327 Wynnton Rd. 10 A.M. – Noon | FREE

Alma Thomas Purchase Party Alma Thomas Society Members Only Registration is required.

Join us for this year’ s Purchase Party where we will vote on which work will join the Museum’ s collection.

Not an Alma Thomas Society Member but want to attend? Contact membership@columbusmuseum.com or call 706.748.2562 ext. 5440!

8 Thursday

Garden Volunteer Workday

Bradley Olmsted Garden | 9 A.M. – Noon No registration required.

10 Saturday & 13 Tuesday

Mini Makers

1327 Wynnton Rd. 10:30 – 11:30 A.M. | FREE

(Ages 2 – 4 months & caregivers) No registration required.

10 Saturday

Painting Workshop Series 1327 Wynnton Rd. | 2 – 3:30 P.M.

(Ages 6 – 10) $100 per student.

Cost includes all four classes.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

15 Thursday

Winfred Rembert Documentary Screening & Talkback Cols. Public Library | 3000 Macon Rd. 5:30 - 7:30 P.M. | FREE

No registration is required. Space is limited on a first-come, first-serve basis.

In partnership with the Columbus Public Library, learn about Cuthbert artist Winfred Rembert.

This event will include a screening of the documentary All Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert and a talkback with filmmaker Vivian Ducat, activist Sam Mahone, and curator Jonathan F. Walz, Ph.D.

Family Saturday

No registration required.

17 Saturday

Painting Workshop Series 1327 Wynnton Rd. | 2 – 3:30 P.M.

(Ages 6 – 10) $100 per student.

Cost includes all four classes.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

19 Monday & 26 Monday

Docent Training Session

1327 Wynnton Rd. 10 A.M. – Noon & 6 – 8 P.M. For more details, see page 4.

23 Friday

Members & Friends Bus Trip to Auburn & Tuskegee

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site & Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art 8:30 A.M. – 6 P.M. $60 for members, $70 for non-members Registration is required. Space is limited.

Enjoy a tour of the Tuskegee Airmen’ s Hangars with a special Ranger Talk and park film, Tuskegee Airmen: Sacrifice and Triumph, followed by lunch at Hey Day Market in Auburn. In the afternoon, you’ ll enjoy a tour of the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art.

Lunch is not included in bus trip cost. Visit heydaymarketauburn.com to review menu options.

24 Saturday

Painting Workshop Series 1327 Wynnton Rd. | 2 – 3:30 P.M.

(Ages 6 – 10) $100 per student.

Cost includes all four classes.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

For registration and additional information, visit our website or contact: Morgan Wilson at mwilson@columbusmuseum.com or 706.748.2562 ext. 5440

2023-2024 WINTER THE MUSE | 9

WINTER 2023-24 IN MEMORIAM

In Memoriam: Evelyn and Ray Crowley The Columbus Museum mourns the loss of Evelyn and Ray Crowley, who passed away in August 2023. The Crowleys were a delight to be around, and their dedication to Columbus and the Chattahoochee Valley made our community better.

Their service to the Museum was both enduring and exceptional, and we were truly fortunate to have them as loyal friends and supporters.

Both Evelyn and Ray served on the Museum’s Board of Trustees. Ray offered his expertise in finance to the Investment Committee in the mid-1980s, while Evelyn was a longstanding and vital member of the Collections Committee, serving from 1988 until she was elected a Life Trustee in 2010. For many years, Evelyn and Ray were regular participants on the Committee’s annual trips to New York. Their love of art and their generosity to the Museum resulted in 15 acquisitions that were outright gifts or purchases toward 1

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which they contributed funds. Most recently, they donated Peach Trees in Blossom, Saddle River District, New Jersey #2

by John Marin, a major work by this important early American modernist and a transformative addition to the Museum’s holdings. Other gifts include Untitled (Wall Construction)

by Burgoyne Diller, Night Rider by Gene Davis, Proserpine

by Hiram Powers, Columbus Wall by William Christenberry, and Poem A by Bill Viola. Evelyn and Ray’s generosity also included participation in the capital campaign, Reimagining The Columbus Museum, in support of a gallery that is our new transition space between the art and history collections.

Evelyn and Ray will be greatly missed, but their lasting impact on the Museum will always be remembered.

Images: 1. John Marin (1870–1953), Peach Trees in Blossom, New Jersey, 1953, oil on canvas, Gift of Raymond and Evelyn Crowley in honor of the Museum’s 70th Anniversary, The Columbus Museum 2. Evelyn and Ray Crowley

WINTER 2023-24 MUSEUM NEWS Gift Shop News

This fall the gift shop hosted The Art of Glass Making Workshop: Pumpkins and Holiday Ornaments. The Glass Making events continue to be a sell-out success thanks to the talents of lead glassmaker Kelly Robertson and owner of Calvary Glassblowing Studio in Lawrenceville, GA. The shop was also seen around town at several events including The Wynn House Sip & Shop and Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens.

Volunteer News

Lead gardener Tracy Leopard hosted student volunteers for the annual Columbus State University’ s Day of Service. Volunteers worked on beautifying the front sidewalk and entrance to The Bradley Olmsted Garden.

Volunteer Events

Garden Volunteer Work Days

December 14, January 11, & February 8 | 9 A.M. – 12 P.M. Location: Bradley Olmsted Garden No Registration Required.

We are looking for volunteers to assist with our grand reopening! If you are interested in volunteer opportunities at the Museum, please contact Brooke King, Shop Manager at bking@columbusmuseum.com.

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From left to right: Marcolm Tatum, Kristen Hudson, and Cesar Torres

Kristen Hudson is The Columbus Museum’s Director of Marketing and Public Relations. She joined the Museum in 2021 following her appointment as the Marketing Director and Development Assistant at the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO). At the CSO, she was singularly responsible for all marketing and promotional efforts including season and single ticket campaigns. She was awarded an Innovation Grant through the Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley in 2019 to develop a mobile app for concertgoers, providing easy access to program notes, musician biographies, behind-the-scenes content, concert day updates, and more.

Kristen grew up in Toledo, Ohio where her love for the arts blossomed at a young age. She graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Arts in honors music from the Honors Tutorial College at Ohio University as well as her master’s in music and Artist Diploma in Oboe Performance from the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University. She holds certifications in Social Media Marketing, Digital Marketing, and Content Marketing and has attended numerous professional conferences around the country. Kristen and her husband Landon have a cheerful toddler named Luna and two sweet dogs, Chudley and Ollivander (three points to Gryffindor if you get the reference!).

Kristen heads the Marketing and Public Relations Department where she is responsible for the Museum’s external communications. This includes upholding the Museum’s brand and public identity, handling ongoing publicity and relations with the media, project management for all Museum publications (brochures, postcards, The MUSE, family guides, and more), maintenance of the Museum’s website and social media channels (follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn), and acting as a public spokesperson and advocate for the Museum. Kristen leads a creative 3-person team, including our Graphic Designer and our Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator.

“As a cultural center in our community, the way in which we communicate and present ourselves to the public is very important. For us to uphold our mission of bringing American art and history to life for the community, it first takes someone stepping foot within our doors. Every chance we have to share information, send a postcard, run a commercial, or even send an email, is a welcoming invitation for guests to come to the Museum – whether for the first or 100th time. It is a wholly exciting and humbling opportunity to invite visitors in and to share with them what makes The Columbus Museum so special. I am honored to work on such a mission and to do so with my incredibly talented and passionate team.”

Marcolm Tatum is the Graphic Designer for The Columbus Museum. He holds a bachelor’s degree in art from Columbus State University. Marcolm’s favorite part of the job is helping shape his coworkers’ unique visions into attention-grabbing and visually appealing marketing materials for the Museum’s diverse audience. He has won several awards during his 25-year career, most recently receiving an SEMC gold medal in the posters category for the It Came From Storage exhibition in 2022.

When he’s not designing, he’s either doodling or searching for a gripping podcast or a great album to listen to – his headphones are constant companions. Marcolm and his wife are the proud parents of three daughters and a slightly crazy dog.

Cesar Torres joined the staff of the Museum in 2021 as the Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication studies from Columbus State University. Cesar is passionate about working on projects that create artistic and cultural experiences for the public. In addition to a strong background in communications and customer service, Cesar is experienced with photography and videography and captures captivating content at many of our programs and events.

2023-2024 WINTER THE MUSE | 11

WINTER 2023-24 MEET THE STAFF

Meet The Columbus Museum Marketing Team

MEMBERS & CONTRIBUTIONS JULY 1 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 The Columbus Museum is grateful to recognize

Fred & Alice Barlow

Mr. & Mrs. Ben B. Philips**

Drs. Francye & Joseph Largeman

our President, Director, Collector, Master Circle,

Bo Bartlett & Betsy Eby*

Dr. & Mrs. Andrew W. Pippas*

Drs. Kevin T. & Amanda McPherson*

& Patron members. Those who joined or re-

Mr. & Mrs. Donald W. Beck, Jr

Ms. Marianne Richter

Mr. & Mrs. Roy E. Martin III**

newed within the last quarter are in bold print.

Catherine & Rennie Bickerstaff**

Mrs. Kathy J. Riley**

Dr. & Mrs. Michael Metry

Mrs. Marjorie B. Bickerstaff**

Mr. & Mrs. Alan F. Rothschild, Jr.**

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Olson**

Mrs. James J. W. Biggers**

Mrs. Benno G. Rothschild**

Mr. & Mrs. J. Donald Peek**

Zack & Amanda Bishop

The Honorable & Mrs. William C. Rumer**

Ms. Gwendolyn H. Ruff

Mr. Wilson W. Blackmon**

Ms. Melanie Slaton & Mr. Ben Holden

Dr. & Mrs. Lloyd Sampson**

Mr. & Mrs. James H. Blanchard**

Dr. & Mrs. J. Lacey Smith

Edith H. Satterwhite**

Minnie R. Bradley**

Dr. Eva Sperk

Ms. Charlotte Alexander Saunders**

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel P. Amos**

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Y. Bradley**

Patty Kimbrough Taylor**

Mr. Claude G. Scarbrough III**

Mr. & Mrs. Robert G. Hecht**

Mr. & Mrs. Jeremy Brewer**

Jim & Melissa Thomas

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Schley

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth M. Henson, Jr.**

Dr. & Mrs. Philip L. Brewer**

Ms. Beth Thrift

Kenneth A. Shaw**

Mr. & Mrs. John C. Martin II**

Mr. & Mrs. Lance Brooks

Townsend Wealth Management

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas P. Swift**

Mr. & Mrs. W. Michael Ogie**

Mrs. Ann P. Burr**

Mr. & Mrs. James Trotter, Jr.**

Ms. Elizabeth A. Taylor**

Mr. & Mrs. Alan C. Ramsay, Jr.**

Mr. & Mrs. R. Keith Chambless

Dr. Amandah S. & Mr. John T. Turner*

Mr. & Mrs. John P. Thayer*

D. Steven Sharp**

Mrs. Forrest L. Champion, Jr.**

Mr. & Mrs. Jack G. Turner*

Mr. & Mrs. Philip Tomlinson**

Dr. & Mrs. Hunter Champion

Mr. & Mrs. William B. Turner, Jr.**

Mr. & Mrs. James D. Yancey**

DIRECTOR CIRCLE

Bonnie & Leslie Cohn**

Mr. Robert H. Vardaman, Jr.

Mrs. Lovick P. Corn**

Craig & Traci Courville**

Dr. Thomas A. & Sherry F. Wade**

The Columbus Museum is grateful to recognize

Ms. Florene C. Dawkins

Mr. & Mrs. John W. Walden, Jr.**

our Reciprocal, Family, Supporting, & Civic

David Durant

Chris Weaver**

members who joined or renewed within

Mr. & Mrs. J. Robert Elliott, Jr.**

Mr. L. Rexford Whiddon

the last quarter.

Mr. Robert T. Flournoy**

Susan Smith Wiggins

Mint & Robert Flowers**

Pat & Jack Wilensky**

Mr. & Mrs. Gardiner W. Garrard, Jr.**

Mrs. Brevard House Windsor**

Mr. & Mrs. James E. Gates**

Kay & Billy Winn**

Mrs. Ben M. Greenblatt**

Mr. & Mrs. Joel O. Wooten*

**Continuous member for 20+ years *Continuous member for 10+ years

PRESIDENT CIRCLE

Mr. & Mrs. Raymond E. Crowley**† Dr. & Mrs. Thornton F. Jordan** Mr. & Mrs. Mason Houghland Lampton** Mrs. Cherry N. Pease** Dr. & Mrs. Richard S. Robbins** Maxine R. Schiffman** Katherine J. & Wright B. Waddell**

James E. & Kelli Hall

COLLECTOR CIRCLE Mrs. Donald F. Broda, Jr.** Ed & Suzanne Burdeshaw** Mr. & Mrs. Stephen T. Butler** James G. & Kathryn A. Hillenbrand Mr. & Mrs. A. Comer Hobbs, Sr.** Mr. & Mrs. Otis J. Scarborough** Bobsie Swift** Dr. Chip & Audrey Tillman Mrs. Davis Ronald Watson** Rebecca K. & Sidney H. Yarbrough III, M.D.**

MASTER CIRCLE Dr. & Mrs. A. C. Alvarez** Fred & Catalina Aranas Family Foundation Ms. Betty L. Auten* Mrs. Champ Baker, Jr.**

12 | THE MUSE WINTER 2023-2024

Mrs. Richard Hallock Mr. & Mrs. Kerry W. Hand**

*Continuous member for 10+ years

RECIPROCAL Jean R. Anderson**

PATRON

Judye S. Harris**

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey G. Adams

Dr. & Mrs. Ed P. Helton

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas E. Adams, Jr.

Darren & Becky Horne

Drs. Karin & Champ Baker III*

Mrs. Lula Huff**

Mr. & Mrs. Gary O. Bruce**

Mr. & Mrs. Randolph B. Jones III*

Mr. & Mrs. Gill Cargill

Dr. William P. Kendall**

Ms. Jan Carter**

Mrs. Erwin D. Key**

Drs. Kathryn & Benjamin Cheek**

Jack & Libbie Key**

Mr. William J. Cunningham, Jr.**

Dr. & Mrs. Edward B. Kinner**

Mrs. Frank S. Etheridge III**

Ashok & Mary Kumar

Mr. & Mrs. Frank D. Foley III**

Mr. & Mrs. Mason Hardaway Lampton

Mr. & Mrs. Lee R. Grogan, Jr.**

Mrs. Donald M. Leebern, Jr.**

**Continuous member for 20+ years

Mr. & Mrs. William C. Huff

Mr. & Mrs. Virgil Miller

Mr. & Mrs. Charles D. Johnson**

Marjorie & Jerry Newman**

Mr. & Mrs. Seth L. Knight III**

Mr. & Mrs. William Roland Peek**

Mr. & Mrs. R. J. Krieg*

Thom Pegg, Black Art Auction

Betty Krulik

Helen J. Burgin** George & Jean Flowers* Stan Floyd** Robbie Keith Holt** Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth S. Janke, Jr.* Judge & Mrs. John T. Laney III** Mr. & Mrs. John Page** Stacy L. Poydasheff** Mr. Cameron Saunders Sharon W. Self** Beverly Toland Mrs. Lothar Tresp Mr. Cliff Tucker** Ron & Susan Wirt

FAMILY

SUPPORTING

CIVIC

Mr. & Mrs. Arch V. Arnold III**

Mr. & Mrs. Mote W. Andrews, Jr.**

Betty Brantley

Win & Joyce Fowler**

Dr. Julia V. Ashley

William H. Edwards

Mr. & Mrs. David M. Jordan**

Jada Chappell

Wayne Evans

Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. McCarley**

Ms. Paula Goble

Angie Gordy

Mr. & Mrs. Jack J. Pease III**

Mark & Elizabeth Graham

Ms. Lynn Hunter Griley**

Mr. & Mrs. F. Houser Pugh**

Ann M. Hall

Ms. Patricia S. Harmann

Sonjia & Greg Redmond

Ken Hamill

Mrs. William S. Hudson

Robin Trimarchi & Mollie Smith

The Honorable & Mrs. John House

Twila R. Kirkland

Mr. & Mrs. Josh Neville

Joseph E. Kmiecik

Gwyn P. Newsom**

Mary Ann Marshall

Celia G. Page**

Janet Miller & Bob Elkins

Mr. & Mrs. Eugene H. Polleys, Jr.**

Mrs. Cheryl Mortenson

Naomi Richardson: M.G. Richardson Bed &

Ms. Julia Sellers**

Breakfast

Ms. Barbara R. Waller

The Columbus Museum thanks our active Affiliate Group Members who joined or renewed within the last quarter.

ALMA THOMAS SOCIETY Mr. & Mrs. Mason Houghland Lampton Mr. Harry L. Lindsey Mary Ann Marshall D. Steven Sharp Ms. Melanie Slaton & Mr. Ben Holden Dr. Thomas A. & Sherry F. Wade

YOUNG ART PATRONS

Mrs. Billie C. Smith**

Mr. Cameron Saunders

Mattie K. Wright**

Mrs. Billie C. Smith

The Columbus Museum gratefully acknowledges the following friends for their contributions.

Donation for education programs Georgia Council for the Arts The Walter Alan Richards Foundation, Inc. Donation for general operations Georgia Council for the Arts Bea Haledjian Mr. & Mrs. P. Elliott Kirven

The Columbus Museum gratefully acknowledges the following contributions in honor or in memory of special friends.

In memory of Dr. Rod Beck John & Gail Stafford

Mercer University

In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Raymond E. Crowley

The J. W. & Ethel I. Woodruff Foundation

Dr. & Mrs. Philip L. Brewer Dr. & Mrs. Robert H. Bush Dr. Anna Lisa Chamis Chris & Judy Hardt Mrs. Ben H. Hudson II Mr. & Mrs. Richard Olson Ms. Marianne Richter Mr. & Mrs. Henry C. Schwob Cecil & Terry Whitaker Olivia Zdrahal In memory of Olene Howell Ms. Marianne Richter In memory of William T. Pope Mr. Hal S. Pope & Ms. Sybil McCullen

Image: Pictured are several of the members who joined us on a trip to the Booth Western Museum of Art in Cartersville on November 1.

2023-2024 WINTER THE MUSE | 13

SUPPORT THE ARTS WITH A GIFT TO THE COLUMBUS MUSEUM By supporting the Museum, you help bring art and history to life for the communities of the Chattahoochee Valley. Your donation of any size helps provide invaluable educational opportunities and culturally rich experiences for our community.

Please consider a fully tax-deductible gift to the Museum this holiday season. You can even make your gift in honor of a loved one!

Give online or contact the Development team at development@columbusmuseum.com or 706.748.2562 ext. 7100

GIVE A GIFT THAT LASTS ALL YEAR! This holiday season treat your family and friends to a full year of enriching experiences with a Museum membership!

Members enjoy invitations to exhibition opening receptions and special members programs, discounts on events, free admission at over 200 museums in the Southeast, discounts in the Museum Shop, and so much more!

PLUS, FOR A LIMITED TIME, GET AN EXTRA MONTH FOR FREE! Hurry! This special offer is only available through December 31st!

Purchase online, in the Museum Shop, or contact the Membership team at membership@columbusmuseum.com or 706.748.2562 ext. 5440

14 | THE MUSE WINTER 2023-2024

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2023 – 24 Chris Henson, President James E. Hall, Vice President Gwendolyn H. Ruff, Corresponding Secretary Marianne Richter, Museum Director/Recording Secretary Tyler A. Townsend, Treasurer D. Steven Sharp, Immediate Past President

Daniel P. Amos, Kathelen V. Amos, Mary B. Bradley, Kay Broda, Lance Brooks, Lark Champion, J. Robert Elliott, Jr., Mint Flowers, Gail B. Greenblatt, Pace Halter, Donna Hand, Helen Hobbs, Thornton F. Jordan, William P. Kendall, Tricia Llewellyn Konan, Elizabeth Lampton, Mary Lu Lampton, W. Fray McCormick, Becky Miller, Stephen Morse, Elizabeth C. Ogie, Dionne Rosser-Mims, Jack Schlely, Melanie Slaton, Javonne Stewart, Bobsie Swift, Otis E. Tillman, Thomas Wade, Jr., Whitni Waldrop, Elizabeth Wolverton

Life Trustees: Phillip L. Brewer, Elizabeth T. Corn, Evelyn T. Crowley †, Judye S. Harris, Robert Hecht, F. Clason Kyle, Betsy T. Leebern, Jerry B. Newman, Rebecca K. Yarbrough Honorary Trustees: James H. Blanchard, The Honorable Calvin Smyre, J. Barrington Vaught

MUSEUM STAFF Marianne Richter, Director Lacey Yeend, Assistant to the Director COLLECTIONS & EXHIBITIONS Jonathan Frederick Walz, Director of Curatorial Affairs & Curator of American Art

Perry Valentine, Associate Artifacts Handler and Exhibit Preparator EDUCATION Lucy Kacir, Director of Education & Engagement Jessamy South, Youth & Family Programs Manager

Rebecca Bush, Curator of History/ Exhibitions Manager

Rachel Vogt, Academic Programs Manager

Aimee Brooks, Collections Manager

Danielle Hoapili, Community Outreach Coordinator

Miles Kirkpatrick, Assistant Collections Manager Cameron Faucette, Exhibition Coordinator & Designer Keith Smith, Lead Preparator/Art & Artifacts Handler

Cora King, Museum PALS Teaching Assistant DEVELOPMENT Kimberly Finn, Director of Development

Kelly Cargill, Event Sales Manager Morgan Wilson, Membership Manager Jocelyn Waters, Development Assistant MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS Kristen Hudson, Director of Marketing & Public Relations Marcolm Tatum, Graphic Designer Cesar Colon Torres, Marketing & PR Coordinator ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Kimberly Beck, Deputy Director for Operations Paula Evans, Accounting Specialist

Brooke King, Gift Shop Manager Volunteer Coordinator Samantha Wooden, Visitor Services Representative Katie Sealy, Visitor Services Representative Rick McGowan, Security Chief Larry Hunter, Security Deputy Al Johnson, Security Deputy Edward Diamond, Maintenance Engineer Alice Holmes, Custodian Dorothy James, Custodian Rita Palm, Custodian Tracy Leopard, Gardener

2023-2024 WINTER THE MUSE | 15

THE

COLUMBUS

MUSEUM

1251 Wynnton Rd. | Columbus, GA 31906 706.748.2562 | columbusmuseum.com

The Columbus Museum is supported in part by Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. Georgia Council for the Arts also receives support from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

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