We said goodbye to our sweet, sweet boy today. He was my best friend and a perfect companion.
Rest in Peace, Oliver. You saved me over and over again.
March 31, 2010 - October 19, 2025
Celebrating you is my greatest pleasure. In every way, you make our world more beautiful. I love you, Henry; I am proud of us. Happy birthday. Xx @henrywainwright
A note for @daharmon06 . 🕊️🤍
I shared this at the service in Iowa. Sending love and healing to our wonderful community, the Harmon family, and my forever loves @henrywainwright and @instajesus as we approach the one month mark.
I love that your birthday falls just a couple of days after Valentine's Day; it means we get consecutive days of sappy moments. My heart is full.
Love you, Hen. Happy everything.
So much.
Today is my last day as Curator at the Bakersfield Museum of Art. After starting as an intern in 2011 and spending time at the front desk, I eventually made my way to the curatorial department. It was in 2015 when I was awarded the position of Curator. Immediately I knew this position was an opportunity to do something, but I wasn’t sure how or what. This was my dream job; my upbringing, interests, and higher education led to this moment. As I stumbled around my first few exhibits, I realized that to be successful, every decision should reflect the needs of this community. Exhibits should excite, challenge, and stimulate dialogue; programs bring people together and activate the space. And with success, the museum would be a hub in Downtown Bakersfield where people wanted to be.
Playing a role in cultivating a culture in this community has given my life meaning and purpose. Professionally, the experience has confirmed my passion and excitement for the visual arts, its history, and its power. I have witnessed this power over and over again. When I stand with an artist in their studio who shares far more than what appears on the surface and then with the staggering energy felt when the collective community is inspired, welcomed, and surrounded by beauty.
My personal growth over the past 11 years has been extraordinary. I found bravery and confidence that I didn’t know I had. I realized my strengths and weaknesses and how and when to use them.
Thank you to every one of you who attended an event or opening. I was forever nervous that no one would show up. But, instead, you continually blew my mind.
Most of all, thank you to this community, which continues to be my motivation and inspiration. The future is bright.
The museum is in good hands; I look forward to being on the other side and experiencing, supporting, and enjoying your work.
The best news is that we are just getting started…follow along with my next chapter @galleryram
Acknowledgments continued in comments.
