Job Title / Profession
Education Coordinator, Acadiana Center for the Arts
Tell us more about your job. What do you love most about what you do?
Gosh, I feel like I’m involved in so many things. If I had to choose one thing to talk about, I think it would be how much I love teaching about how to look at, talk about, read art, and use art to learn! I recently gave a presentation to Lafayette Parish educators on Visual Thinking Strategies, specifically to 3rd – 5th grade Social Studies educators, though many others joined us. I spent weeks researching and studying not only the history I was asked to build this presentation on, but artists and artworks and perspectives of those historical moments and times. It was so refreshing to not only be a student again, but to gain insight, first hand, into just how big of an impact the arts can have on learning! At the end of the day and 5 presentations later, I felt so grateful to be where I am.
How long have you been a member of AcA?
3-5 years!
Who or what inspired you to become a member?
Well, I got lucky being an employee here, because it’s one of the perks. Though, I know if there’s ever a day I don’t work here, I’d remain a member. It’s too special a place to not stay involved.
Tell us about the first AcA experience or memory you have.
Haha – I was actually a bartender here many years ago! Pre-AcA years, I have 10+ years of restaurant and hospitality experience. A friend of mine messaged me asking if I wanted to work an event with her at the AcA, and I said yes. Turns out, it was a wedding! Ever since then, I’ve always found this building to be a really beautiful place where even more beautiful memories can be made. That was such a fun night!
Tell us about an artist, performer, or exhibition at the AcA that has inspired you in a meaningful
way?
Oof, the current exhibition, “Artists’ Alliance”, really will hold a special place in my heart for years to come. A handful of the artists were actually professors of mine, and I never knew they were a part of something so BIG. Being able to lead field trips and share the artists’ stories is something I’ll be forever grateful for.
What excites you most about AcA’s future or our upcoming projects & initiatives?
The Louisiana Music Museum, of course!! So many amazing musicians have come out of Louisiana, and it’s truly special that an entire museum will be built and dedicated to honoring not only those Louisiana Musicians, but the musical culture of Louisiana as well. Right next door, at that!
Tell us about a hobby or craft that fills your spare time.
I got a sewing machine for my birthday, and I’d really love to hone in on that in the near future! Send any tips and tricks my way 😉
What media are you consuming right now? (TV shows, music, books, podcasts, digital creators,
etc)
If you see me walking around the AcA, you’ll more than likely find me with headphones on.. Haha! I am constantly listening to music – and all kinds! I wouldn’t necessarily say I have a favorite genre.
Describe your perfect Sunday.
Lately my Sundays have consisted of 8am walk-runs with the AcA fam at Girard Park, going home to breakfast, coffee and a few games of chess with my partner, and preparing for week ahead. The breakfast, coffee and chess is my favorite part, though.
What are some of your favorite places to visit in Acadiana?
I LOVE Downtown Lafayette! Though, I will say, there is something so inviting and picturesque about Downtown Grand Coteau and Downtown Abbeville. I also just love being outside, so any park where I can lay under a big tree and eat oranges is a good place to be.
Tell us about a personal accomplishment you’re especially proud of.
I can make bread!!! I can also make a mean Tiramisu! It’s the little happy moments in life you gotta treasure, you know?
Do you have any creative goals for the year? If so, what are you doing to reach those goals?
I just want to find my artist self again. I want to be intentional about my time, within my studio especially. For me, it’s never about making a lot of art, or selling my artwork… It’s about making art that makes me happy, and hopefully others along the way as well.
Rapid Fire Questions:
Good morning! What beverage are you taking with you out of the door?
Coffee
Was the book or movie better?
Book
What is the typical soundtrack of your day?
Music / Podcast / TV / Movie
Does the early bird get the worm?
Yes! Usually up before the sun.
How are you spending the time leading up to an AcA performance?
Dinner downtown with friends
An art genie offers you the choice of a lifetime, what will you choose?
Any physical piece of art to keep forever
I’m so excited for the upcoming AcA performance! I really hope…
I can secure my seat in my favorite section
Who doesn’t love a piece of merch from your favorite artist, what item are you picking?
I’ll take a t-shirt & tote bag, please
This is goodbye for now!
Tell us your final thoughts:
Thank you for spotlighting me! It’s nice to be able to talk about the “why” behind the work.
Tell us anything!
Being a part of the AcA family, in any format, is a one of a kind experience and I think there is a home here for anyone who wants it <3
