This month we are thrilled to feature our Treasurer, Melissa Reeves for our Board Member Spotlight. Melissa has been on the MAC Board since 2019 but has been involved with arts in the community for many years.
1. What is your connection to the arts? Are you an artist yourself or do you have a particular interest in the arts?
I have always had a creative, artistic mindset but most recently recognized the therapeutic benefits of creating art. I consider myself more of an amateur artist/crafter yet fully support the art community with my arts education, completing an AA in Studio Arts from Cerro Coso Community College in 2016, and then earning a BA in Arts Administration from UMass Amherst in 2018.
2. What is your favorite art medium and why is it your favorite?
I appreciate all types of visual and performing arts. In particular, three-dimensional art using natural or recycled/found materials is one of my favorites to observe and create. Jewelry-making has been a hobby of mine over the years. My passion for pottery/ceramics and wheel-throwing began after studying under Theresa Otto at Cerro Coso.
3. If you could learn any arts medium, what would it be? Why?
I have dabbled in many mediums over the years, and admire those who have the ability to perfectly capture a landscape, or flawlessly perform a dance routine. Most recently Iāve enjoyed learning mosaics with Kristen Schipke and I am looking forward to learning stained glass in March with Susi Bains!
4. What is your favorite part of your role as a MAC Board Member?
I love being able to put into action the skills I have gained in my employment and education to help MAC reach its objectives in making the arts accessible to our community.
5. Why do you think the arts are so important right now? The arts are beneficial in exposing, engaging, and helping people make sense of the many different perspectives and perceptions in what may seem a world full of disconnect. The arts matter, because with them, we matter.