Member Spotlight: Violet Fraser

Violet Fraser has been a supporter, volunteer, and member of the JSMA for over 50 years. She’s held various positions at the JSMA, including docent, chairman of the docent program, president of the Board of Directors, and member of the Gourmet Group. Her work throughout the years has helped shape what the JSMA is today.

How did you first get involved with the JSMA over 50 years ago?

I learned about the museum from a lecture and tour presented by Hope Pressman through the Junior Service League. She, along with the expertise and guidance of Dr. Wallace Baldinger, had created the docent program, now known as Exhibition Interpreters. I knew immediately that this was something I wanted to be a part of and did join a short time later after my youngest daughter, Diane, was in first grade. I loved the preparation lectures that docents were required to attend every week, coinciding with the school year schedule. Eventually, I became docent chairman and spent many happy years giving and participating in that aspect of the museum.

Over the years I was part of a group of interested women who created several interest groups (e.g. the Gourmet Group) to augment the once-a-year fundraising event. This was to encourage membership and raise much-needed funds in support of museum programs. I had the privilege to serve as president of the Board of Directors of the Friends of the Museum in 1977.

Such happy years! I even had my own parking permit.

How has the JSMA changed over the years?

Gertrude Bass Warner was very protective of her collection in the early years. By the time I became a docent, the museum was becoming more accessible to the public. How fortunate we are to have Gertrude Bass Warner’s generous gift of her fabulous collection! The seeds planted by her collection have grown vastly. There is something for everyone here. The building was built during the Depression, mostly from private funds, to be added onto, and Jordan Schnitzer’s contribution made it possible to expand the building.

What has been your favorite JSMA exhibition?

That’s a difficult question! I have seen so many “favorite” exhibits over the years. Of the permanent collection, I adore the jade pagoda donated by Winston Guest, not only to look at, but talking about to tour groups. The pagoda’s history is fascinating. I so enjoyed it all! Several years back I remember an Andy Warhol exhibition that was just wonderful to view. I think my favorite exhibition in recent years has to be the Black Lives Matter exhibition; it was quite the work to take in, but was important to see and show. Of course, the McCosh exhibitions were especially appreciated; my husband Bob and I were close to the McCoshes. I was privileged to be a student of Ann’s.

How has art impacted your life?

Life without the arts would be a desert. My mother made sure to expose me to the arts, including music. I had the usual piano and violin lessons and, lucky for me, concerts, especially through the Civic Music Association. I grew up in the country, but was one of the few of my classmates who went to concerts. I also have enjoyed painting in my adulthood… just for fun!

What has been your favorite program at the JSMA?

I was a docent into the 80s and I just loved it, especially tours with the 4th and 5th graders. Those grades are more pliable and can take in artistic concepts more easily. Their enthusiasm was contagious and such fun. I was a teacher prior to having children, so it was nice to flex the same muscles I had used in the classroom.