Alana Tessman Post #2

Today at my internship, I was introduced to the registrars office where I was able to meet with staff members and learn more about the inner workings of the museum. I had little exposure to the idea of a museum registrar (I actually had to Google it before heading in this morning) - I was unaware of the amount of work and expertise that is required behind the scenes. The woman I spoke with had worked at NOMA for 10 years and as a result was extremely knowledgeable about the pieces as well as the layout of everything. She explained to me how important it is to ensure that works of art are being well documented, for the sake of intellectual integrity and so things such as restorations are recorded among other things. There isn't a dull corner of NOMA. Even the hidden away office I was in today had a 15th century painting on the desk, prepped for restoration. After interning in a museum, I'm convinced that I'll be working in one some day and am excited to pursue the different career possibilities. Even those who are "behind the scenes" get to interact with scholars, artists, and travelers while learning about a wide variety of art. I'm so looking forward to next week, as I'll be meeting with the contemporary art curator and the decorative art curator. I've especially loved working with my supervisor, who has worked hard to ensure that I learn as much as I can during my time here! Attached is a photo of us in front of a piece near the main entrance.