I’ve put another check mark on my bucket list.  As a high school student living in New York City, I often took trips to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As I walked through the great galleries, the feelings I experienced were multiple.  It was almost unrealistic that someone could actually paint such magnificent works of art.  I remember being entranced, walking around in a state of awe, not quite understanding what I was feeling, but happy to be there soaking in such beauty and color while observing the unbelievable skills of the master artists.

During the time period of July 8 through July 19, 2013, I realized a dream I thought could never happen. I became a Copyist at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  I was doing what I loved in my own home town –  the beloved city of New York.  After a long application process I was accepted in the program, one of five copyists selected for the summer season.  I copied Auguste Renior’s “Still Life with Peaches.” It was an unbelievable experience to be so close to that magnificent painting.  I met art lovers from all over the world, exchanged stories, answered many questions while loving everyday and every moment.  The museum staff was wonderful and helpful.  The copy drew tremendous interest and many positive comments from the patrons.

A special thanks to my dear friends Camille and Joe who opened their city apartment to me.  It is conveniently located and enabled me to travel daily to the MET with a load of art supplies.  Without their generosity and support, this experience may have never happened.