Northshore Magazine

Northshore April 2016

Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.

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161 national scene. "We were honored to be included in a recent book, Christmas at America's Landmark Houses," says Bogosian. "It's so gratifying to see our museum in the same pages as the homes of former presidents and houses in colonial Williamsburg." Another partner- ship promises to bring recognition both to Whistler and to his birth- place—through the Art in Embas- sies program, six of the museum's Whistler etchings are displayed in the office of Lowell native James Costos, the American ambassador to Spain. In her years as president and executive director of the museum, Bogosian has also cultivated rela- tionships with the Tate Modern in London, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of Contempo- rary Art in Los Angeles, and the Smithsonian. "It's so important that we bring international recognition, not just to the Whistler Museum, but to all of Lowell," says Bogosian. "That's why I do this—Lowell has such a thriving artist community that deserves appreciation." The Whistler House Museum of Art gives back to Lowell more than just recognition, however. The mu- seum hosts dozens of programs for children and adults, partnering with local artists, authors, and musicians. Adjacent to the Whistler House is Whistler Park, a charming outdoor space perfect for summer concerts. The Parker Gallery behind the mu- seum exhibits shows by contempo- rary artists, typically showcasing six or seven different artists throughout the year; the spring exhibition, "Peace of the Sea," features work by Lowell artist Pamela Wamala. Bogosian has also worked with sev- eral local authors, including Master Thieves author Stephen Kurkjian, to plan readings and book signings. The museum's most ambitious CO N TAC T The Whistler House Museum of Art 243 Worthen St. Lowell 978-452-7641 whistlerhouse.org Vail Collective Retreat offers gourmet dinner under the wide- open sky. Below, luxury tents offer king-sized beds. endeavor, geared toward Low- ell's younger generation, has met unparalleled success. "I'm so proud of our Youth Summer Art Program," Bogosian explains. "There was a real need in our community for an art program that would encom- pass hands-on art education and instruction on the cultural, social, and artistic impact of Whistler and of Lowell." The four-week daily class targets fifth to eighth graders, although Bogosian hopes to admit younger and older children in the future. Students learn to sculpt, paint, draw, and create prints and collages from professional artists and art instructors, while absorb- ing the art and history the museum has to offer. "Many children in our program haven't had much expo- sure to any kind of art," Bogosian says. "It's an opportunity for them to experience art culture in a way they haven't before." In giving back to the community, the Whistler House Museum has re- ceived in-kind support from all over the North Shore. "We rely heavily on our incredible volunteers, who give tours, help plan and staff events, and maintain the property," says Bogo- sian. Among the many organizations that partner with the museum to offer support and provide pro- gramming are Harvard University, UMass Lowell, Boston University, and the Lowell school system. Many individuals support the museum by attending the famous Spring In- terlude, a fundraising event featur- ing a different art theme each year. "We've done Art of the Wheel, Art of Fashion, and Art of the Hat, among other themes," says Bogosian. "Art is in every aspect of everything we do, and the Interlude is a chance to showcase art in unusual ways." Etchings in the collection include Annie Seated and The Pool. Above, the living room offers a collection of New England artists' work.

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