Do You like to collect things? Many people, especially those who are interested in art are avid collectors. Their homes are packed with objects and materials saved for some usually undetermined purpose! While there are those that criticize this activity, any logical person knows that museums are filled with articles that some thoughtful person saved or “horded” if you prefer.

Several decades ago I sat on a beautiful fall afternoon with a friend who stored everything in his shop building. On a workbench was a stack of freshly cut plank boards, pieces 18 by 24 inches someone had left them there he said, and then added “ Wouldn't those make fine woodcuts”! We talked for several hours, discussing many topics, always returning to the stack of lumber. It seemed to me that our conversation had grown from the opportunity that the planks represented.

Art gallery s and museums are wonderful places to visit with a friend. The exhibitions and archives furnish the substance for quiet conversation.