Franny Nemer
Hyde Trustee and long-time friend of The Hyde
How did you first become involved with The Hyde Collection?
Growing up in Philadelphia with a family of artists and having access to many major art museums has had its rewards. My first introduction to the Museum was in 1979 when my Interior Design class from Russell Sage went on a tour to The Hyde Collection. I was so inspired by this amazing place in small-town USA, and to be able to see masters’ works of art up close and personal was a gift. After graduation, I was able to have an internship with a local artist printing serigraphs and hard-edge design prints and eventually became an art dealer with Christie’s Contemporary Art located in New York and London. Several years later, I opened my own gallery at the Sagamore Resort and became one of three Christie’s Contemporary Art galleries in the United States. After seventeen years, I wanted to become more involved with The Hyde Collection. I started to volunteer on various aspects of the Museum, from designing floral arrangements for the foyer and events, along with many planning committees for galas and special events throughout the years. I was asked if I would be interested in working as a volunteer, several days a week in the Museum Store and, of course, my answer was an emphatic yes! So, for several years I volunteered to help plan and organize and sell the many items we purchased, reflecting on the exhibits being shown at that time. I was fortunate to work with Charlotte Miller, my mentor and dear friend. She was my inspiration to becoming a volunteer at The Hyde. When Charlotte passed away, we formed the Charlotte Miller Summer Luncheon each year for all volunteers and supporters of The Hyde.
Has there been a recent exhibition that you loved? If so, which one?
There have been so many exhibitions at The Hyde that I have enjoyed. It is difficult for me to pick the best one. However, I was drawn to the Ellsworth Kelly exhibition with his techniques in line, color, and form. Most recently at The Hyde, the John Van Alstine exhibition has had an impact on me, with his amazing sculptures in stone and metal encompassing nature and balance. They tell a story and have a dominant design presence.
What are you most proud of as a supporter of The Hyde?
It has been the highest honor for me to be selected as a trustee for The Hyde Collection. As an ambassador, I am committed to promoting The Hyde in every possible way. We are so fortunate to have this amazing small world class art museum in our own backyard, only footsteps away. Most of us would have to travel for hours to a metropolitan city to see this caliber of artwork.
As the Museum approaches its 60th year, what do you want the public to know about The Hyde?
The Hyde is approaching its 60th year Anniversary. We are planning an extraordinary year ahead that will surely lift your spirits and inspire you. Join us at The Hyde and be part of the many programs offered in music, art, lectures, Candlelight Tours of the Museum, children’s programs and the On Screen @ The Hyde film series. Experience something new and exciting each time you visit. Support your World Class Museum.
