Give a little general information about yourself: how did you become interested in the arts/design?
Art has always been a huge part of my life. Both of my best friends' mothers growing up were artists and musicians. The women in my life, including my mother, always supported that. We were encouraged to try things, fail, play, adventure, and be a little weird. Entering adulthood, I progressed in my personal art endeavors through mentorship within the Kent Bellows program. I was guided by working artists and in early college years interned with artist and screen printer Joey Lynch. Omaha has such a rich art scene. This sense of community and sharing sticks with me.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to have a career in which I can work within a creative studio setting to build brand language and visual assets for brands. If I could work for Conde Nast, Hugo and Marie, or &Walsh, that would be great. As a designer, I'd like to inspire the viewer, create clarity, create a positive emotional response, and challenge how our impacts as designers can be more sustainable to the environment.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Art & Art History?
The College of Art & Art History would be nothing without its amazing professors and advisors. I have been to a few universities and honestly, I've never felt the care as much as I do here. Professors are available on many levels. They encourage, give concise feedback, and share amazing direction.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
The art community is everything to me. I enjoy attending openings, especially at Goodyear. I currently work at Soco Gallery. Prior to working there, I had my jewelry on display in their bookshop. I interned at the Mint Museum doing exhibition design this summer. I also work at Not Just Coffee which is a huge part of bringing the art community here in Charlotte together.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
For me, work and fun go hand-in-hand quite often. My side business, Companion Jewelry + Objects, is a project I started at the beginning of the year. I sell at a few shops and over Instagram. It's empowering to give the world something you love and made, so that's fun, right?! If we're talking "fun fun," I love fashion. I worked for a long time in vintage and photo styling, so I really enjoy a good thrift. Traveling is always a favorite. Food and cooking are great. Anything music including noodling around on the violin and bass. Hiking and reading in the sun are amazing. Art museums and galleries. But what I enjoy most of all is honest and hilarious conversations with my closest friends.
Photo courtesy of Destiny Clark-Yoder