(Photo courtesy AGO photographer Sean Weaver)
by Sarah Harris, Public Affairs Intern
Amanda Pajak has been a member of the AGO team since July 2008 and works closely with Kristen Ferguson, executive director of Corporate Services and Operations, as her executive assistant. Upon seeing her current position posted on ago.net last summer, Pajak saw the opportunity as a stilettoed foot in the door of the AGO. Although the posting was expired, she applied fashionably late and the rest is history. She had always aspired to work in the arts and loves her role as a go-to-girl at the AGO.
"I am proud to be part of the AGO team," says Pajak. "Enjoying where you work motivates you to strive for the best in yourself."
Born in Toronto, 23-year-old Pajak showed an early interest and commitment to the arts. She studied fine art at the Etobicoke School of the Arts and graduated from Queen’s University in 2007 with her BA (Hons.) in Art History.
Pajak is no stranger to the AGO, visiting the Gallery as a child and volunteering for Teens Behind the Scenes for two years as a high school student. TBTS is designed to enable youth to create art and give them a behind-the-scenes understanding of the art world. Youth in the program actively participate in training and mentorship designed to aid creative development and promote leadership skills. As a volunteer Pajak was able to participate in activities throughout the Gallery and the Grange that promoted interaction between children and adults with art.
Although Pajak looks back fondly on her volunteer days, she loves the responsibility of her current position and flourishes in the fast-paced environment of the Director’s Office. The foundation of her determination was built while in university as a member of the Queen’s rowing team. Participating in early practices and competitive meets while juggling a full course load taught Pajak the value of hard work and responsibility.
Since falling in love with the AGO’s collection while volunteering, Pajak still enjoys spending time in the galleries. "The large spaces allow you to feel alone with the art," says Amanda. "It is an intimate experience and it’s great to be able to visit old friends – Monet, Rodin and Harris."
Pajak wants to evolve with the AGO and intends to pursue her Masters in art history sometime in the near future. She attributes her devotion to the arts to her parents who she describes as free thinkers.
"My parents encouraged me and my siblings to find what we loved and do it for a living," says Pajak. "In my case, my passion was art."
In her spare time Pajak enjoys biking, softball and creating works of art. She wants to get back into rowing and hopes to someday travel the globe visiting the various art institutions that the world has to offer. Beyond these aspirations of worldly travel, and after her participation with the opening of the newly transformed AGO, Pajak would be quite content to spend some quiet time in Paris, "shopping at the various boutiques, or nibbling on a petite brie baguette (for now…)."