Getting to Know the Rubin Museum of Art

I recently joined the Rubin Museum of Art as the newest member of the Full-Time Guide team. I have had an incredible time the last 6 weeks becoming acquainted with the museum’s collection through the six exhibitions currently on display and with the help of the RMA’s amazing staff. As an Educator coming to the museum with little knowledge of Buddhism, Hinduism, or any form of Himalayan art, having the second floor, Gateway to Himalayan Art, as an introductory exhibition, has been an invaluable resource for me, as a learner of the content, and as a Guide, whose task it is to distribute this information to new and returning visitors in engaging and exciting ways.

Photo by David de Armas

Being a n00b (newbie) in any environment presents a list of challenges, all different for each individual. The Education & Visitor Experience staff here at the Rubin Museum is full of some of the most passionate, committed, and approachable people I have ever met, and each has played a roll in helping me adjust to the new environment in my first “real” museum job after finishing graduate school.

Having the luxury of enjoying and appreciating one’s co-workers seemed like an urban legend. I constantly hear from my friends who work in the corporate world about their cut-throat co-workers who are all vying for the next raise, or esteemed position, and who are chiefly concerned with Numero Uno. But not at the Rubin. Here, it’s different. As Educators, we are in it for the intrinsic rewards- and our success is determined by the success of the museum as an educational institution and its contributions to the public. It is no fluke that the RMA staff has already managed to establish the museum as a well respected institution, especially regarding its educational programs, despite its relatively young age.

Getting a "Taste of RMA" on a tour in the galleries. Photo by Evi Abeler.

Every day I am impressed by the dedication of the staff to take time out of their lunch schedule or after hours to meet with me and assist me in learning about the museum collection or different Museum Education strategies.

In a nutshell, I just wanted to say to my fellow Educators and RMA staff: Thanks for doing what you do and making me feel at home! I promise to pay it forward!