This month's Spotlight features Board Member, Lauryl Kuntzman! Lauryl's enthusiasm for the arts and fundraising efforts have been crucial to our organization. Little did we know that we would have a Bob Ross expert in our presence, too! Read more about Lauryl's story below.
1. What is your connection to the arts? Are you an artist yourself or do you have a particular interest in the arts?
As a kid, my favorite present for Christmas or birthdays was a fresh pack of Crayons — the big box with the sharpener on the back. I was always drawing, coloring, writing short stories and poetry as a kid. I knew I wanted a career that allowed me to be creative, so I went to art school and got a B.F.A. in Graphic Design, and I landed my dream job working in marketing for Mammoth Mountain. Now, I get to create art every day!
2. What is your favorite art medium and why is it your favorite?
Right now, I’m going back to basics and teaching myself to paint again. There is no “Undo” button with painting, so it’s challenging to me. Every stroke is a commitment. With digital art — what I do daily — I can reverse my steps if I take a path towards something I don’t like; however, with painting, you can only move forward. It’s a beautiful lesson in being intentional and slowing down.
3. If you could learn any arts medium, what would it be? Why?
Probably digital animation. I’m very familiar with static art and design, but adding the elements of time and movement are a challenge, and the future of my industry.
4. What is your favorite part of your role as a MAC Board Member?
By advocating for arts programs in our local schools, I hope to have a positive influence on the next generation. Exposure to the arts in adolescence creates adults with healthy coping mechanisms, which contributes to the overall health of communities and cultivates a progressive society. I am so grateful that I get to participate in the fundraising effort and strategies that support these programs.
5. Why do you think the arts are so important right now?
I am very passionate about funding art programs in schools, as youth participation in art, music, and drama classes leads to improvements in communication skills, critical thinking skills, motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork. It seems like arts are the first programs to be cut from the budget, and I think it has a devastating effect on the behavioral health of children and adolescents, and they can’t grow to their full potential.