Dear Customers & Friends:
Several months ago -- I approached Mark Masuoka, the Executive Director of The Bemis Center, with a question: "What's in store for the bemisUNDERGROUND in 2010?" My curiosity developed into an ongoing series of conversations with Mark about creating a more engaged arts community in Omaha -- and how to build upon the rich history of the bemisUNDERGROUND so that it could become more than a gallery for great talent, but a space in which our arts community can thrive.
Those conversations also led to a realization on my part that I sincerely wanted to play a larger role in whatever that space would become.
Since opening Pulp in 2007, it has become clear to me that what I love most about it is its gallery. I've realized that it's not curating that thrills me -- but the conversations about art that have taken place in this space -- discussions that have brought artists and the community together -- that's what I love most about my job.
That said... I was honored when Mark invited me to become a member of The Bemis Center staff as the bemisUNDERGROUND Manager. It's an amazing opportunity for me to not only do what I love, but expand upon it -- and I have graciously accepted the offer. I will be closing the doors to Pulp at the end of December in order to become a full time member of the Bemis staff next year.
Although I am beyond excited about my future at The Bemis -- I cannot deny being a bit sad about what it means for Pulp. I have given my all to this shop, I love it dearly -- and I know that it's loved by many of you. As much as I will miss this space -- I have no doubts that truly brilliant things lie ahead, and I hope that you understand my decision to move towards them.
I wanted to take a moment to thank each of you for the overwhelming amount of support, kindness and friendship you've shown to me over the past two years -- but I've realized that there's NO way to put what I feel into words. I can't even begin to try --- so please accept my humble "Thank you" knowing that the emotion behind it is deeper and stronger than those two tiny words may convey.
It it my most sincere hope that your support and friendship will follow me to The Bemis. I will be curating exhibits in the bemisUNDERGROUND, will be welcoming visitors and having many more great conversations about art there each day. I hope that you'll accept my standing invitation to be a part of the great things happening -- not just in the bU, but in every part of The Bemis Center -- next year.
Wishing you the most wonderful of New Years,
Brigitte McQueen
owner | curator
pulp | paper & art
* as of January 1st, I can be reached at brigitte@bemiscenter.org
