First of all I would like to comment on how for many years as a visitor in museums and galleries before I was employed in one as large as I am now, that I would be enjoying the exhibits and so much wanted to continue and see as much of it as possible. However, it would get to a point where it was difficult, although I was both enjoying and learning from it. I just could not take it anymore. Now I realize what the problem was. As an employee who has to stand in gallery spaces for long periods there is only so much ones feet and legs can take. Now we try different things such as better shoes, wearing insoles and special socks, but there really does not seem to be anything that totally relieves one of the problem. (If it can be unbearable for a visitor after a few hours, imagine how it must be for someone who is there for a whole day, and five or more days a week.) Now it does make a considerable difference as to exactly where one is posted, like we are known to say, "Wood is good". It might help a little to be be a bit mobile, but for certain posts this is not possible. Like for those posted at entrances there are thicker pads for standing, which helps, but it seems to be rather difficult to add these in all areas of the building. Does anyone have any suggestions or examples as to how this is handled in other places? Also our buildings are known to have been designed by great architects, why is this one area that seems to have been overlooked?
Jerry Foley, GPO at the NGA
National Gallery of Art
Washington, DC