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Kelly Ernst
Creative Strategist - Arts Advocate
Professional Background
Kelly Ernst is a passionate and innovative Creative Strategist who has made significant strides in the arts advocacy sector. She has an extensive background in strategic design, derived from her advanced studies at the Parsons School of Design - The New School, where she earned her Master of Science in Strategic Design. Coupled with her Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Multi-Cultural Leadership from the University of Colorado Boulder, Kelly possesses a unique blend of artistic sensibility and strategic acumen.
With years of experience under her belt, Kelly has worked with several esteemed organizations, contributing her expertise in product strategy and marketing within the creative sector. As part of the Creative Vitality Suite at WESTAF, she plays a crucial role in driving initiatives that support the arts and culture landscape across the Western United States. Her work is pivotal in leveraging creativity for community development, showcasing her commitment to enhancing the cultural fabric of society.
In addition to her role at WESTAF, Kelly has previously served as a contributing writer for Lifestyle Publications, focusing on enriching the arts and culture dialogue. Her writing reflects her keen insights into the artistic community, where her voice resonates with enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Kelly’s versatility is demonstrated by her varied experiences within renowned institutions. Her tenure at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver has seen her transition from curatorial intern to digital web archive developer, demonstrating her adaptability and rich understanding of contemporary art narratives. Her commitment to the arts is further evidenced by her earlier work as a development and annual fund steward at The Santa Fe Opera, where she helped cultivate donor relationships vital for sustaining artistic endeavors.
Kelly’s background also includes dynamic internships, such as marketing and communications with Creative Time, and web development internships at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver. These roles have contributed to her robust skill set in museum and gallery marketing, project management, and audience engagement strategies.
Education and Achievements
Kelly Ernst's academic journey is a testimony to her dedication to understanding and advocating for the art world. Earning her Master of Science in Strategic Design from Parsons School of Design equips her not only with theoretical knowledge but also practical tools for strategic planning and innovation within creative industries. This education solidifies her expertise in using design-thinking approaches to address complex problems in the arts sector.
Her Bachelor of Arts in Art History, merged with Multi-Cultural Leadership, laid a strong foundation for her profound appreciation of the diverse narratives that shape our cultural environments. Kelly's knowledge in art history not only informs her strategies but also fuels her passion for bridging communities through the arts.
Her professional experiences have allowed her not only to apply her academic learning but also to contribute to meaningful projects that advocate for artistic initiatives. Kelly's work at the Creative Vitality Suite is instrumental in crafting strategies that promote economic vitality through the arts, ensuring that creative sectors can thrive and impact local communities positively.
Achievements
Among Kelly's noteworthy achievements is her strategic approach to arts advocacy, particularly in her current capacity at WESTAF, where she leverages research and innovative strategies to enhance the vitality of artists and arts organizations. She has played a significant role in initiatives that aim to raise awareness about the economic and cultural contributions of the arts, thus highlighting its importance to community identity and development.
Furthermore, her published contributions to Lifestyle Publications have enriched the public's understanding of the arts and culture landscape, allowing her to connect with a broader audience. Her capacity to analyze and interpret the arts in relation to modern issues continues to resonate with readers and fosters greater appreciation for artistic endeavors.
Overall, Kelly Ernst embodies the spirit of creative advocacy through her strategic approach and deep commitment to the arts. As someone who has both shaped and been shaped by her findings and experiences within the arts sector, she remains a vital voice and asset to creative communities and organizations alike.
