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Elyse Klaidman

Chief Executive Officer at X in a Box, LLC (formerly of Pixar)

Professional Background

Elyse Klaidman is an accomplished artist, educator, and visionary leader who has dedicated her career to inspiring a new generation of diverse problem solvers, artists, innovators, and storytellers through collaborative and community-focused initiatives. With a remarkable 22-year tenure at Pixar Animation Studios, where she held various leadership positions, Elyse has left an indelible mark on the world of animation and education. Currently, she serves as the Co-Founder and CEO of X in a Box, where she focuses on creating equitable education opportunities for all students by integrating the principles of creativity and innovation into learning.

Elyse's journey at Pixar began with her involvement in the establishment of internal and external exhibition and educational programs. As the Director of Pixar University from 2008 to 2016, she was instrumental in overseeing a wide array of programs, including art, animation, filmmaking, technology, and leadership, thus fostering a rich educational environment within the studio. Her visionary approach not only enhanced the artistic capabilities of her colleagues but also cultivated a deep-seated culture of collaboration and growth.

In her role as curator, Elyse initiated the design of Pixar's internal art gallery in 2000, and in 2004, she partnered with the esteemed curators at the Museum of Modern Art in New York to orchestrate the “Pixar: 20 Years of Animation” exhibition. This groundbreaking showcase toured internationally and was ultimately re-curated by Elyse for its 30th anniversary, demonstrating her commitment to celebrating the art of animation and its evolution over three decades.

Education and Achievements

Elyse Klaidman's academic journey laid a solid foundation for her professional endeavors. She earned her BFA with honors in Fine Art from Wesleyan University, where she honed her artistic skills and developed a deep appreciation for the diverse forms of expression within the arts. Furthering her education, she obtained a Master’s Degree in Education, specializing in Special Education and Learning Disabilities from American University. This combination of artistic and educational expertise has defined her career and driven her commitment to advancing educational practices.

Throughout her time at Pixar, Elyse took on multiple responsibilities, culminating in her role as Director of the Archives and Exhibitions Program in 2009. Her collaboration with the Museum of Science in Boston to launch “The Science Behind Pixar” in 2015 is a testament to her innovative spirit. This traveling exhibition invites audiences to explore the technical and scientific aspects of filmmaking, further bridging the gap between art and science and making them accessible to the public through education.

One of her most notable accomplishments is the creation of “Pixar in a Box” in collaboration with Khan Academy, a series of acclaimed educational tutorials. This initiative exemplifies her dedication to integrating various disciplines—math, science, engineering, storytelling, and the humanities—into the filmmaking process, helping students understand the vital roles these subjects play in creative production. Additionally, Elyse co-created Imagineering in a Box, released on Khan Academy in 2019, showcasing her continuous push to innovate within the educational landscape.

Achievements

Elyse Klaidman’s leadership at Pixar and her work with X in a Box have earned her recognition as a forward-thinking educator and cultural influencer. Under her guidance, numerous educational initiatives and exhibitions have flourished, reaching diverse audiences worldwide. Her passion for making a difference within the education sector continues to drive her initiatives as she advocates for an equitable system that empowers all learners.

Klaidman's commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration not only benefits aspiring artists but also contributes to the overall cultural and educational ecosystem. Her work is characterized by its focus on inclusivity, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to innovative educational resources that inspire them to become adept problem solvers and storytellers.

As Elyse embarks on the next chapter of her career with X in a Box, she remains devoted to nurturing a love for learning and creativity, preparing future generations to engage thoughtfully and innovate alongside emerging challenges. Her rich legacy at Pixar continues to influence those within the creative community, as her vision for education and creativity continues to evolve and inspire.

Achievements

Elyse Klaidman is the Co-Founder and CEO of X in a Box, an organization dedicated to creating equitable education opportunities. She served as Director of Pixar University, overseeing programs that enhanced education in arts and technology. Klaidman is recognized for curating major exhibitions, including “Pixar: 20 Years of Animation” and “The Science Behind Pixar.” She co-created “Pixar in a Box” with Khan Academy, providing creative educational resources that integrate various subjects into filmmaking.

Education

BFA with Honors in Fine Art from Wesleyan University. Masters Degree in Education with a focus on Special Education from American University.

Career History

23 years of experience at Pixar Animation Studios in various roles, including Director of Educational Partnerships and Dean of Art and Film. Art Educator and Museum Club Leader at Lab School of Washington, further bridging education and arts.

Related Questions

How did Elyse Klaidman's experience at Pixar shape her approach to education and creativity?
What inspired Elyse Klaidman to co-found X in a Box, and what are her goals for the organization?
In what ways has Elyse Klaidman integrated her artistic background into her educational initiatives?
What challenges did Elyse Klaidman encounter while curating major exhibitions at Pixar and how did she overcome them?
How does Elyse Klaidman envision the future of education in relation to the arts and technology?
Elyse Klaidman
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Location

Berkeley, California, United States