We are proud to feature our Education Coordinator, Monica Eilts, on this month's Staff Spotlight.
1. When did you first realize you were an artist or wanted to be an artist?
For as far back as I can remember, as a child, I loved to be creative. My mom was always sewing and being crafty, so she was very much an influence and provided many opportunities to be expressive through creativity. I don’t really consider myself an artist, but rather a person who has an appreciation for art and finds joy in creating, learning about various art mediums (and supplies), getting my hands dirty, and sharing my passion with others, especially young children.
2. You have worked in a variety of art mediums, do you have a favorite? If so, why is it your favorite?
Hmm, this is a tough question because I truly enjoy working with many different art mediums. I don’t necessarily have a favorite, but I would say right now, painting is what I have really found to be enjoyable and relaxing. As we all know, this year has been quite stressful in various ways. I have really found painting to be peaceful and stress relieving. I have noticed this for my students as well.
3. If you could learn any other arts medium, what would it be? Why?
I would really like to learn more about printmaking: woodcut, engraving, etching, lithograph and screenprint. I haven’t dabbled much with this medium and I am intrigued! I like to work with fabric, so I would be delighted to create an image and then transfer to fabric.
4. What is your favorite part of your job as Education Coordinator and Teaching Artist?
I care very much about the arts, especially in education. It has been such a pleasure to be involved with MAC to bring arts education to our schools. My favorite part of my job is working with children and seeing the positive impact art has had on them. To see their enjoyment brings a smile to my face and truly is gratifying.
5. Why do you think the arts are so important right now?
I think the arts are important now more than ever because of how drastically all of our lives have changed recently. I do feel that our world is becoming somewhat more normal, however I do think the importance of art still remains. Engaging with the arts, whether it be music, dance, visual art, or literature, gives us the opportunity to live in the moment and not worry about the stresses of life.