JAARS Volunteers Speak

Most people are passionate about something. For Debra Kieft, an attractive mother in her forties, it’s art. Working on a master’s degree in art administration from the University of North Carolina, Debra searched for a summer internship to meet course requirements. She had heard of JAARS and its Museum of the Alphabet at Church of Charlotte where she attends. Making a call to Arthur Lightbody, an assistant to JAARS’ president, she learned of the possibility of involvement with the museum.

Besides art, Debra has a long history of interest in cultures and languages. She recalls going to the library as a child and listening to music from other countries. Her favorite Girl Scout badges were ones that mixed languages, cultures and art. Later on, she studied French and German, requisites for art research. Her faith, of course, weaves through all these interests. Debra notes, ldquo;Christianity has played a more significant part in the development of art through the ages than most people realize.”

Working at the Museum of the Alphabet presents a wonderful collage of Debra’s interests: art, languages, Christianity, and indigenous cultures. “I love learning and the information in the museum is almost encyclopedic!” Her special interest in fiber arts and weavings is met too in the specimens displayed in the museum and elsewhere on campus.

Debra’s assignment includes welcoming visitors to the museum, mastering the various displays’ information, and giving tours. Bringing experience and knowledge from her art history education, she is able to make suggestions for improving presentations. She wonders too about the possibility of a regular museum newsletter or a traveling exhibition.

When asked about her experience here, she replies, “Oh, it’s everything I’ve dreamed of: a loving work environment, co-workers who are passionate about their own call to Bible translation support, and to whom I can express my deepest feelings about art related to Christianity. It’s a wonderful way to &lrsquo;get my feet wet’ in a small museum, developing skills as a docent, learning about administration, scheduling tours, and welcoming the public. There’s also the technical side, dealing with computer-related needs, and repairing display items.”

“I’m glad to see that this organization’s heart is about saving indigenous cultures. JAARS performs a service to the public in displaying and preserving many unique art pieces from minority peoples. There are few places today where indigenous art can be seen and appreciated,” she says.

Debra feels God calling her to the arts. Like Debra, each of us has been created with particular interests and passions. It’s good to know that for every gift God gives, there is a place to use it in service to Him.