South Middlesex Times

Reece Goodson, an art history major at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, is preparing for a career in galleries and the art world. Initially drawn to archaeology and ancient art, Goodson's academic direction changed after taking a contemporary art course with Anna Khimasia. "Initially, I wanted to focus on art of antiquity," Goodson said, but his exposure to contemporary art shifted his career aspirations towards working in museum or gallery settings.

Khimasia described Goodson as "curious, engaged and enthusiastic," indicating that his social skills and eagerness to succeed would help him in the art industry. Since transferring to Rutgers in 2023, Goodson has been working towards his goal of becoming a gallerist by participating in an internship at Marian Goodman Gallery in New York and working at the Zimmerli Art Museum. "I realized that I wanted to work with living artists for my art career," Goodson remarked, influenced by Khimasia to pursue a different path.

At the Zimmerli Museum, Goodson balances multiple responsibilities, including welcoming visitors and overseeing events. Edwin Vazquez, who manages visitor services and security at the museum, praised Goodson's "professional attitude" and empathy towards visitors and coworkers alike. Zimmerli Director Maura Reilly also commended Goodson, calling him "a stellar and invaluable employee" who contributes positively to both the museum and the future of the arts.

Goodson's role at Marian Goodman Gallery includes organizing press clippings and publishing art online. His proactive approach to securing the internship—by applying in-person with a cover letter—resulted in an immediate offer at the gallery, where he interned during the summer of 2024 and has returned for the current semester. The gallery's support from supervisors Linda Pellegrini and Jonathan Safdie has enriched his learning experience. Goodson reports being "very lucky for all that I’ve been able to experience there."

Looking forward, Goodson is optimistic about potential full-time work at the gallery post-graduation. Utilizing university resources like the Zimmerli internship has given him essential preparation and confidence for his future in the art world. "The Zimmerli prepared me for my future experiences that I otherwise would've been overwhelmed for if I had gone straight into them," Goodson concluded.