A Museum of My Own: What Would Be Exhibited and Why

With over 50 years in the travel industry and a deep passion for collecting art, fossils, rugs, music, and collectibles from over 130 countries, my home has inherently become a museum of my own interests and experiences. The items on display tell the stories of my adventures and the treasures I have accumulated over the decades. Let's explore what these exhibits would be and why they were chosen to be part of this unique collection.

Perspectives of Over 130 Countries

My extensive travels have allowed me to collect art, fossils, rugs, and a variety of other items from around the world. Each piece tells a story and provides a window into the diverse cultures I have encountered. These include an oriental Persian rug sourced from Iran, a warthog tusk from Tanzania, a caribou rib bone necklace from Canada's Arctic, petrified coral from the Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, papyrus paintings from Egypt, and even some music CDs from the Hildegard von Bingen Museum in Germany, which celebrates the life and work of the 11th-century abbess and composer.

Personal Stories and Symbolic Meanings

The items on display are not just objects; they are stories waiting to be told. Each piece has a personal significance, capturing moments of inspiration, emotion, and cultural discovery. For instance, the Persian rug is a symbol of the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern art and culture. The warthog tusk is a reminder of an adventurous trip to a wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania. The caribou necklace is a talisman of Arctic survival and the majestic wildlife of the North. Petrified coral from Olduvai Gorge connects me to the very origins of human civilization, while the papyrus paintings from Egypt offer a glimpse into ancient Egypt's rich history and artistic heritage.

The Role of My House as a Museum

My house serves not only as my home but also as a living museum, reflecting my personal journey and the treasures I have collected. The arrangement and placement of these items have a purpose. When hanging a painting in the entryway, my daughter’s innocent question, “Did you design this wall for this painting?” was a perfect reflection of how each piece is strategically placed to enhance the overall atmosphere and narrative. The paintings and artifacts are displayed in a way that they not only stand alone but also tell a cohesive story, inviting visitors to delve into my adventures and the cultural treasures I have amassed.

Connecting with Personal Memories

Each item holds a piece of my life, and the walls of my home are a visual record of my travels and experiences. When I painted on location at Bora Bora, I captured my impressions of the experience through my “human camera,” documenting the scents and emotions of the place. These experiences were not only captured creatively but also in the physical objects, making them more than just souvenirs but tangible links to the past.

The Library as a Repository of Knowledge

Complementing the physical artifacts are my extensive library of classic books, covering history, archaeology, and art. This collection serves as a repository of knowledge and inspiration, providing context and depth to the tangible items on display. The books and the artifacts together create a multi-layered narrative that is both historically rich and personally meaningful.

In conclusion, my house is more than just a residence—it is a curated museum, a tribute to my adventures and the treasures that have brought me joy and enlightenment. Each item on display has a unique story to tell, and together, they create a unique and engaging experience for anyone who enters my home.