IN-PERSON: The Elderwise classroom, 2275 Platt Road
From the Greek words “taphos” (tomb) and “philia”(love), a taphophile is a person with a strong interest in cemeteries and graves, and the history and art associated with them rather than a morbid fascination with death. Taphophiles might visit cemeteries to appreciate their historical significance, document gravestone art, research personal genealogy, visit the grave of a well-known citizen, or find solace and reassurance in the belief of an afterlife. Many cemeteries are also places for the living. Because of their many plants and animals, some cemeteries are also designated as arboretums. First introduced as “garden cemeteries” in the 19th century, these burial places were a welcome respite from the crowded and polluted cities of the Industrial Revolution, and a way to enjoy the quiet beauty and health benefits of nature. Kathy has visited most of the cemeteries in her presentation, but a few are still on her bucket list. Join us, and you may discover that you too are a taphophile and might include a cemetery as part of your next travel itinerary!
Kathy Gunderson is a retired Art and Humanities teacher with an educational background in Art and History. Since shortly after her retirement, Kathy has continued her love of learning about art and its history by giving art presentations in the Ann Abor and Chelsea areas and, especially, sharing that love with those who previously have had little background in the arts. In addition to her art presentations, Kathy has been a docent at the University of Michigan’s Kelsey Museum of Archaeology for almost ten years. She also enjoys travel, gardens, and visiting museums of any kind.
