Visitors taking Gary Opper’s tours have remarked on his breadth of knowledge, friendly demeanor, and willingness to go beyond the exhibition to share historical facts and information. Growing up, Opper always enjoyed visiting museums, so when it came time to retire, he knew that becoming a museum docent was a great way to stay engaged. Whether touring children, adults or specialized groups such as medical students, he says he learns everything he can to be prepared, attending “Docent Think” classes and reading about exhibitions, artists and how artwork is made.

Opper says people are sometimes shocked when they learn of his 36-year career as a CPA and mortgage lender. “Many art people assume that I taught art history, but the course I actually taught was Principles of Federal Taxation.”

“I enjoy all aspects of being a docent,” he says, “from the walk-through with the curator before an exhibition’s opening, the excitement of the opening itself, studying about a new exhibition, interacting with other docents and staff, and discussing an artwork while on a tour.”

His top tips for museum visitors include timing visits with docent tours, attending different types of events such as lectures, openings, teas or workshops, and revisiting the museum often to enjoy the changing exhibitions.