CMA Staff Picks: Manager of Engagement Wilson Bame
Hey, I’m Wilson, manager of engagement at the Columbia Museum of Art. I oversee public programming here at the museum, which means every day is a little different, but that variety is what I love! Whether it’s a talk or lecture, a concert such as our series More Than Rhythm, or big programs like Arts & Draughts and Family Fun Night, I always enjoy the opportunity to bring new experiences to the community, especially when I get to work with the community that makes them happen.
My favorite CMA Collection object is the camel sculpture created in China during the Tang Dynasty. The first time I saw it I really didn’t think much of it, but then I took the time to really look at the details. What really stands out now is the funny expression on the camel’s face. It just brings so much joy! And I happen to have the camel surrounding me in my office — my desktop background is a photo of him and his compatriot (Painted Horse and Rider), and I recently borrowed the 3D-printed version of him that we keep for touch tours (while we aren’t using it of course) — so hopefully his contagious energy finds its way into my work. The artist had clearly taken time to make this sculpture very true to life, with a lot of details given to the saddle and various matted tufts of fur on the creature, but with the huge grin this camel is displaying, I can’t help but think the artist was having a bit of fun. I’ll never know if the artist truly intended for this camel’s expression to be one of delight when they created it, but it sure brings a lot of it to me.
