Curiosity Inspires This Art Museum Exec

“So many people inspire me every day. I get inspired by the smallest thing. I am a really curious person so anyone who is embracing who they are and following where their curiosity leads them inspires me.”    ~Emily Holtrop

How cool is that, to be inspired by curiosity every day!

It is no wonder Emily, who is director of learning an interpretation at the Cincinnati Art Museum, loves her career so much – and does such an amazing job that she was just presented the 2018 National Museum Education Art Educator Award.

Emily works with a team to create public programs and experiences that bring to life the Art Museum’s collection and special exhibitions, and also works closely with curators to craft stories and messaging for visitors. Part of that includes writing the content for most of the gallery and family guides in a special exhibition and overseeing the creation of all hands-on interactives. In many ways she sees herself as the voice for the visitors, seeking their input for why something is or isn’t interesting, or is important to add.

I asked Emily some questions to get to know her better. Please continue reading.

Lisa: With such a passion for creative expression, was art a part of your childhood?  
Emily: My grandparents owned a music store and my mom was an art and home economics teacher so I grew up in creative house. We were always encouraged to play an instrument, draw, sew, just create. I still create today, I am an avid knitter and know my way around sewing machine.

Lisa: They say that if you love what you do, you never work a day in your life. What gives you the most satisfaction in your work?
Emily: Well, I love being in the galleries talking about works of art with our visitors. I don’t get to do that very often but when I do, I feel energized. I also really love creating interpretive materials and interactive for people to use to enhance their visit. The recent launch of MyCAM at the museum was a huge project for me of which I am very proud.

Lisa: In your opinion, how important is art education for young children?
Emily:  This is so huge. Getting kids involved in the arts at a young age is so important. Art can teach them creative thinking, empathy, persistence, patience, critical thinking, independence, you name it. I see kids every day at the Museum who are making that connection with art – putting the dots together.