As the museum prepares to open this week and welcome back visitors, we share the following post. It celebrates the power of art to initiate meaningful connections, sometimes bringing strangers together if only for one powerful moment.

Upon my grandmother’s death, I scoured the internet for traces of her that would make her passing feel temporary. Nestled among government records was a link to Instagram. I curiously clicked it, unsure of who, other than family, would post about my grandmother. A black-and-white photograph appeared with my grandmother emphatically but elegantly gesturing to a Peabody Essex Museum visitor, lanyards covering her arm, the works of Georgia O’Keeffe enveloping her petite frame and perfectly coiffed hair. Her work as a volunteer docent (PEM Guide), memorialized by a stranger who appreciated her tour and recognized her passion. The post read: “Thank you Virginia Morbeck for your outstanding tour of American artist #georgiaokeeffe exhibit today.”

Over professional portraits and youthful captures, this was the photo we chose for her obituary -- my grandmother, Virginia Morbeck, following her vocation. Although she was a native San Franciscan, my grandmother possessed the dependable New England qualities of productivity and a deep appreciation for education. Her continuous pursuit of knowledge and passion for sharing it led her to become a volunteer docent at PEM. She naturally fulfilled the requirements as she had always applauded and promoted the works of artists, cultural icons and scientists in her private life. Over the years, and after many visits to PEM, my grandmother would imprint these same values on me.

Up until she was ill, we would stroll the galleries, pop through the exhibits and explore early American works and Eastern imports. She would practice her tours with her loved ones, peppering in anecdotes as my grandfather, mother and I hobbled along, unable to keep up with her enthusiastic energy. She would greet the guards as we entered each room, asking about their families. When I found a painting or artifact enchanting, my grandmother would quietly edge closer and calmly ask why I lingered, why I was drawn in.

“I feel calm” I would answer, or “I love the colors, they are invigorating.” Her questions gently become more specific, pushing me to explore why certain colors, movement or subject matter resonated. Over the years this line of questioning unearthed a deeper clarity of why I am drawn to certain works of art and how those works reflect my values. Through my love of specific artwork and with the guidance of my grandmother, I uncovered my core values of beauty, courage and authenticity while the artwork my grandmother loved reflected her values of exploration, self-improvement and elegance.