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Volunteer Spotlight: Debi Osment

Get to know a little more about this month’s Volunteer Spotlight: Debi Osment!

 

Where are you from?

I am originally from Chicago, and I moved to Austin a little less than 20 years ago, and then moved here two years ago.

 

How did you end up in Northwest Arkansas?

We were tired of the heat in Texas but didn’t want to go all the way back north. In our travels to see family, we had started stopping at Crystal Bridges, and we stopped here twice a year, and so when our kids left, we picked up and moved here. It’s nice to have four seasons again.

 

What have you most enjoyed about being a volunteer at Crystal Bridges and/or the Momentary?

I love people. I enjoy seeing the art, being part of new ways of thinking. I’m really fascinated by the behind-the-scenes. I’ve met curators from DC and NYC who’ve come to check on their artwork. I never knew that happened. Just knowing about all the little parts (how we get art here and store it) is so interesting. It’s been kind of a life-saver being here, knowing no one, and having the opportunity to talk.

 

What’s your favorite artwork or space at Crystal Bridges and/or the Momentary?

That’s a hard question. On some days, I like this, and on other days, I like that, but I’m always partial to Chihuly. I will go see him around the country. At the Momentary, I loved Sarah Cain’s use vibrant use of color, and there was some bling in it which is fun and which I like, too.

 

What do you do to relax?

I swim. I read. I love mysteries and crime stories.

 

What would an ideal day in Northwest Arkansas look like for you?

Kayaking on Loch Lomond. Playing golf. Eating at the Veggie Table in Bella Vista or Hub Bike Lounge in Bentonville.

 

What’s your secret super skill?

I really enjoy meeting and talking to people visiting Crystal Bridges or the Momentary. Helping them enjoy the experience of visiting as much as I enjoy being there.

 

If you had three wishes, what would they be?

That we’d be a more united States, and health and security for my family and everyone else.