Museum aficionados Jeff and Christine Franciski initially became Members of Newfields to support a cultural treasure close to home. "We've visited several museums in other cities and countries and realized we were missing a hidden gem in our own community," said the Franciskis.

In fact, one of the Franciskis’ favorite things about Newfields is “having a world-class art museum in [their] backyard.” Over the years, they’ve favorited specific paintings in the IMA Galleries, and they make it a point to see these each time they visit. But that doesn’t keep them from discovering new things. The couple explained, “We enjoy seeing the new exhibitions and taking advantage of the docent tours to learn more about the artwork and artists."

Those tours have changed the way they experience the Museum’s galleries. "We have a greater appreciation for artwork from various locations and time periods," said Jeff and Christine. "The variety of exhibitions, both permanent and temporary, along with taking the docent tours, has helped expose us to viewpoints that we would not normally be [exposed to].”

Their curiosity extends far beyond the IMA Galleries, finding inspiration throughout The Garden and in Newfields’ annual programs and festivals.

“We've been learning more about plants and gardening,” said the Franciskis. “We really enjoy traversing the gardens, especially during Harvest Nights and Winterlights, looking for floral ideas to incorporate into our home.”

During Art in Bloom, the Franciskis talk to participating floral artists about the inspiration behind their arrangements, and they’ve made Winterlights an annual tradition.

Another Franciski-favorite is The National Bank of Indianapolis Summer Nights Film Series. “It’s an opportunity to see old favorites along with catching up on some classics that passed us by for one reason or another," Jeff said, adding, "Especially since my favorite part-time gig was working at a video store. Kids, ask your parents."

Claude Monet (French, 1840–1926), Charing Cross Bridge, about 1900, oil on canvas, 26 x 36-1/2 in. (canvas); 37-1/8 x 47-11/16 x 4-1/4 in. (framed). Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, Gift of Several Friends of the Museum, 65.15.

Although neither considers themselves artists, the couple has discovered their creative side through Members-Only workshops. “We are more patrons of the arts than artists ourselves,” the couple said. "We have had the opportunity to try our hand at some artwork in the cocoa and crafts sessions and enjoy displaying our own efforts in our home."

Whether they're revisiting beloved paintings, discovering a new favorite film, or gathering ideas from The Garden, the Franciskis continue to discover fresh reasons to return to Newfields.

Interested in learning more about all that Newfields Membership has to offer? See our Membership Benefits guide.

Cover Image: Edmund C. Tarbell (American, 1862–1938), Preparing for the Matinee (detail), 1907, oil on canvas, 45-1/2 x 35-1/2 in. (canvas); 57 x 46-1/2 x 2-1/2 in. (framed). Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, Gift of Mrs. John G. Rauch, Sr., 82.201.