Wat is a curator for the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The museum is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and will be closing the season with the exhibition "Women Who Rock: Vision, Passion, Power," a display of artifacts from female rockers ranging from Billie Holiday to Lady Gaga and organized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland. It begins Sept. 7.

How did the concept for the exhibit "Women Who Rock" come about?

The show was organized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, and maybe it's not a coincidence that Cleveland is my hometown and that of NMWA's director, too. We thought the exhibition was a great fit for us, and we're happy to be the only East Coast venue.

What is the main theme and purpose behind the exhibit?

"Women Who Rock" features 250 artifacts ranging from clothing and musical instruments to handwritten lyrics and dressing room notes. The objects weave a fascinating narrative of how women have shaped popular music.

How does the exhibit tie into the mission of the museum?

Our mission is to educate the public about women's accomplishments in the arts, including the performing arts. From blues singers in the 1930s to the girl groups of the 1960s to the global superstars of today, women singers, songwriters and musicians have had such a strong impact.

Is there a specific part of the exhibit you are looking forward to?

I joke with my colleagues that after hours I'm going to be trying on Yoko Ono's sunglasses. Seeing the objects firsthand is so exciting and makes the history of women in rock come alive.

What does it mean to you to be a part of the National Museum of Women in the Arts?

I can't think of anything more fun, uplifting and inspiring to do. At NMWA, I get to work with artists and think, write and talk about art every day.