Get to know Master’s Program alumni in our series Life After Graduate School. In this month’s feature, meet Wendy DePaolis, a 2014 Master’s Program alumna. Wendy is currently Curator of Arts and Sculpture at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Why St. Thomas?
When considering where or even if I would go back for my Master’s in Art History, many factors were to be considered. Finances, personal growth opportunities and the ability for the degree to lead to something rewarding upon graduation were just a few questions. Meeting with the Director of Graduate Studies provided answers and inspiration to move forward with this decision. I learned of the myriad of opportunities available and took advantage of many of these in my time at St. Thomas. I participated in many on- and off-campus internships and assistantships, was awarded grants to further research, and attended conferences both as a presenter and attendee— all as result of being a student at St. Thomas.
What was your favorite moment while a student at St. Thomas?
The research I was able to do on a little-known department store art gallery—Gallery 12—allowed me to immerse myself in a local project interviewing people who worked with the gallery and revealing the impact it had on the contemporary art scene—helping to cement Minneapolis as an arts hub for the future.
My other favorite moment was being awarded a Luann Dummer for Women Graduate Student Fellowship for Research on Topics Related to Women and/or Gender Issues. This award led to my Qualifying Paper research and a trip to the Kodak libraries to research a little known but highly influential photographer at the turn of the century, Annie Brigman.
What are you up to these days? How did you get to where you are?
Since November 2015 I have been Curator of Arts and Sculpture for the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. My mission is to use art as a portal allowing people to understand and garner a deeper appreciation for the natural world around us. This position is responsible for the conservation and preservation of the newly-acquired monumental sculpture collection in the Harrison Sculpture Garden. The 26 sculptures from a wide range of international artists including the likes of Barbara Hepworth, Philip King and Louise Nevelson along with many other international artists provides a unique experience for the Arboretum visitor. Additionally, the ever-rotating retail galleries—Reedy and Café—are managed by the Curator who develops and executes all aspects of the exhibitions. Proceeds support the Arboretum and the local artist community. Lastly, the Curator is charged with growing the fine arts education program which is filled with a wide range of classes from fiber to painting often in coordination with major outdoor exhibitions or recent developments in the gardens.
I am the first person to hold this position at the Arboretum and am thereby in a position to mold this opportunity with the direction of upper management. I was hired because of my past experiences and connections, as well as the ability to juggle many responsibilities at once.
How has the time you spent in our graduate program influenced your career and life?
The graduate program opened my eyes and my ability to become a true researcher. Not only the mechanics of good research are taught but how to dig deeper, look at things in a way that helps you to arrive at a new discovery.
I was constantly challenged and encouraged by staff to take my information and ideas further. Whether developing programs or new exhibitions, I use skills learned at St. Thomas to ensure that our visitors are given a rewarding experience.
Advice for new and current graduate students?
I think building connections builds bridges. I also think you need to let people know what makes you unique. What can you bring to an organization that will further the mission of the place? Once you have figured out your unique skills and qualities, tell the world. Don’t be shy!
