9 to 5

In spring 2023, Telfair posed our staff a question: "What is your personal favorite work of art in Telfair Museums’ permanent collection?" Their answers led to the creation of the first staff- and group-curated exhibition in the museum’s storied history. Fifty-three full- and part-time employees participated across the Curatorial, Development, Marketing, Operations, and Visitor Experience and Engagement departments. Telfair’s valued volunteers, docents, and member affinity groups made selections as well. This large and knowledgeable assembly of guest curators selected 60 fascinating works that speak to the breadth of Telfair’s permanent collection, which has grown to more than 8,500 objects since the museum opened in 1886.

This is a unique opportunity for voices at the museum across all departments and sites, traditionally working from 9am to 5pm, to contribute personal insights into what makes a work of art compelling—choices developed through time, in the galleries, interactions with visitors, or individual research. In addition to amplifying the voices of Telfair’s dedicated team, we hope these new perspectives inspire you to consider what makes a work of art significant beyond its art-historical meaning and how creative expression brings us joy.