Voces del Prado

Between the painting and the public. The job of a gallery assistant

María Teresa González Escolar, General Services Assistant, 1990-2013

Working as a gallery assistant or warder is important for us and it’s nice when it’s appreciated, as you’re the person who’s nearest to the paintings; you’re between the painting and the public. It’s quite a difficult job and you learn a lot. I’ve not only learned about the history of Spain and painting but how to deal with and speak to the public. As obviously you sometimes realise that you haven’t said the right thing. So you explain a bit more in order to say exactly what you have to so they don’t get offended or you don’t give the slightly arrogant ones who get cross when you tick them off a chance to answer back. You learn an awful lot.
I’ve always tried to see the positive side of the galleries. If they were very busy ones with lots of people that distracted me and the time passed very quickly. And if they were less visited ones, the peace and quiet encouraged you to concentrate.
I’ve enjoyed it because you’re with the paintings in a beautiful place. You have moments for yourself while at the same time you’re keeping an eye on everything. I liked that. I can’t tell you which gallery I liked the most. The Central Gallery, for example, is marvellous, it’s beautiful. And if you’re with the Dauphin’s Treasure you can focus on looking at the wonders on show there. Guarding any of the rooms was fine. The Prado’s an absolute wonder.