This month's Spotlight features Board Member, Rebecca Clayton! We are excited to welcome Rebecca to our board and value her insight on supporting arts education, building community, and uplifting local artists. Learn more about her below!
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 passion to create and would even call it one of my driving forces in life. I’m a teacher and I love the creativity that comes along with the job. I have created and led various after school clubs, such as Hiking Club, Art Club, Running Club, and Knitting Club.
In 2016, I opened a local art shop in Bridgeport, called The Fox Den and met so many wonderful Eastern Sierra artists through this venture. I sold my photography and apparel with my designs there as well. I also hosted art classes- from painting, to glass bead making, to knitting. I love the wonderful community that art can create.
2. What is your favorite art medium and why is it your favorite?
That’s a tough one. Right now I would say my favorite medium is knitting. I love all of the possibilities that come with knitting- so many colors, different stitches, & patterns. There is always something new to experiment with and learn.
3. If you could learn any arts medium, what would it be? Why?
If I could learn any art medium I think it would be plein air painting with oil. I have hosted 5 plein air workshops in Bridgeport taught by accomplished western landscape artist, Frank Serrano, but I’ve never actually taken the class. It is mesmerizing to watch him choose a scene and paint it right before your eyes. He has a way of capturing the mood of the landscape and I would love to be able to learn that skill.
4. What is your favorite part of your role as a MAC Board Member?
I am brand new to the board and excited to be a part of the MAC team. As a teacher, I truly appreciate all of the art that MAC brings to ESUSD and I’m thrilled to get more involved with the other events that create opportunities for art experiences within our Eastern Sierra communities.
5. Why do you think the arts are so important right now?
In my mind, the arts are always important. Again, coming from a teacher perspective, I have found art to have a profound impact on students in the classroom. It gives them the opportunity to express themselves in new ways and to process things that are going on in their lives. It can also be a meditative and relaxing experience, as well as something that brings confidence and pride.