When the Gibbes Museum opened in 1905, the nation celebrated what Charleston has always understood: the power of art – to inspire our imagination, heal our hurt, and nourish our souls.

Museum Educators Get Back by Giving

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Gibbes museum educators serve as the face of the museum in our area schools. Currently, we have a team of 8 that work with our in-school programs Eye Spy and Eye Opener. The team is responsible for carrying out curriculum needs in the classrooms while working with teachers. It is a partnership. We work to enhance what the students are already learning. Gibbes museum educators bring fresh faces, new ideas, and different areas of expertise to the table. I feel fortunate each day to have such a great team that can heighten Charleston area students and teachers awareness of the importance of visual arts education. One of our newest educators, Lucie Medbery, shares how working as a museum educator has been a great learning experience for her as she gets to know the Lowcountry. —Rebecca Sailor, Curator of Education

Zucker Middle School students
Zucker Middle School students work on a writing project as part of the Eye Opener collaboration with ECM.

I am not from Charleston, but my husband grew up here. When we decided to retire, our hearts told us that Charleston was the place to be! As a retired educator, I hoped to find opportunities to work with students in challenging and engaging activities. I met Elise Detterbeck, who introduced me to the Museum’s Eye Spy program, and the Eye Opener program at Engaging Creative Minds (ECM). From there, the adventure began.

Museum Educator Lucie Medbery works with Zucker Middle School students.
Museum Educator Lucie Medbery works with Zucker Middle School students.
Drayton Hall students
Drayton Hall students enjoy the Gibbes Museum’s Eye Spy program.

Through these programs, I have met many talented and committed individuals, committed to using art as a vehicle to promote creativity, exploration, problem solving, and self awareness for students of all ages. I have learned a great deal about the rich artistic traditions that exist in the Lowcountry, and the thriving artist community here in Charleston. The dedicated staff at the Gibbes has been extremely supportive. I am so impressed with their expertise in developing meaningful programs for students in the area. As I learn about the plans underway for the reopening of the Gibbes, I am thrilled to be a small part in this tremendous endeavor.

Lucie Medberry works with Drayton Hall students.
Lucie Medberry works with Drayton Hall students.

 

 

 

 

Drayton Hall Elementary
Kids at Drayton Hall Elementary participate in the Eye Spy program.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my sessions with students in Eye Spy and ECM. In our discussions and activities with students about art, I witness their enthusiasm, insight, and inspiration. It is a privilege to be able participate in these valuable programs.

—Lucie Medbery, Gibbes Museum Educator and Guest Blogger

 

Published January 29, 2016


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