By Natasha Fujimoto
FOR over 20 years, retired schoolteacher, Helen Hinks has generously devoted her time to assist others in engaging with, and enjoying, art.
As a volunteer at the old Shepparton Art Gallery and now at the Shepparton Art Museum, Helen eagerly describes how her role as a gallery guide and member of the Friends of SAM acquisition committee have enriched, challenged and inspired her.
“I find it exhilarating and sometimes quite challenging, especially when you are assisting people who may never have been to an art gallery” says Helen before adding,
“while people are always excited to be here, I’m often gobsmacked by their reactions. Sometimes art can challenge people in unexpected ways and my aim is to make this engagement with art a positive experience that both widens and expands upon their ideas.
“Sometimes as a gallery attendant I have the pleasure of meeting some very knowledgeable and interested people and before I know it, I am the one who is being informed and that it truly another beautiful aspect of being a volunteer.
“As a Friend of SAM, I have assisted the group to raise and acquire exquisite ceramic pieces and artworks worth around $100K. The Friend’s group love this important work as well as organising exciting community events for the museum.
“Volunteering at SAM is about expanding your ideas about life through art and becoming a volunteer isn’t as daunting as it may sound.
“To be a volunteer at SAM you never feel like you are out in a canoe rowing against the tide because there are always old gals like me around to help and the lovely girls at the front desk are terrific and are ready to support anyone who would like to volunteer,” Helen concludes with a smile.
