Member Highlight: Kristi Backman
Tell us about you:
I am a creativity coach, art instructor, author, speaker and artist. I have a Master’s in Fine Art, am a certified coach and have over 18 years of experience teaching Studio Art and Art History at the collegiate level. I am passionate about teaching and nurturing the creativity of others, and I speak on exploring creativity and the mental and physical benefits of creativity. I’ve written two books: Creative Foundations: Essentials for Artistic Understanding and Fiberglass for Artists: Small Works Technique. In my own art practice, I create sculptural artifacts from imagined civilizations. You can find me creating in my studio in Aurora, hanging with my dog, reading a good book or exploring nature.
Share a story of how your organization engages with the business sector (i.e. sponsorship, volunteerism, etc.).
After years of working in a college classroom, I wanted an opportunity work more individually with people and take their experience beyond a prescribed course. So, I enrolled in a program and earned a life coaching certification. I began my coaching journey working with professional artists, which was a natural progression of what I was already doing.
That was until an amazing experience occurred – my water heater imploded. This required several different service people to come to my home and walk through my studio to access the service closet. Every person who came through commented on my studio and shared what they used to do. Drawing, painting, photography and woodworking were mentioned. I loved hearing these stories, and it was then I knew what I REALLY wanted to do: help people reclaim their own artistic identity. Artists have already made that choice. I wanted to give that option to others who left their creativity behind. I have long believed that art is for everyone, and that creativity is a basic human characteristic. My mission now is to help people learn how to enhance their experience with creativity and add joy to their life!
How has this engagement with business benefitted you and your organization?
I have talked to a lot of people after the water heater experience and have yet to meet anyone who did not enjoy some type of creative practice. It may have been in their youth, but everyone has something creative that brought them joy. The sad thing is so few people are taking the time or effort to pursue this activity now. This makes me even more determined to help people see how valuable creative activity really is. I believe creating these personal connections to creativity also helps people see the value of larger artistic ventures in their community and beyond. This equals a larger importance on the arts as a whole.
How is your organization supporting the creative economy?
I am currently working a full-time schedule as an adjunct college instructor. My creativity coaching business has been a background endeavor for the last couple years. After pivoting to a new client profile, I found I no longer had ready contacts for potential clients and need to get out into the world to make more connections. I am ready to really start exploring this mission and am looking for ways I can get involved. In doing so I am hoping I can share my knowledge and experience with others and generate more engagement in the arts.
Why are you involved with CBCA?
I have been looking for a way to connect with and contribute to the community. As an introvert this can be challenging, so I had to find the right fit. I found CBCA and it feels like the perfect solution. With my background, I am well suited in connecting both with artists and creatives as well as business professionals. I look forward to an opportunity to get involved and support the creative economy.
If you would like more information about becoming a CBCA member, visit the CBCA Membership page or contact our Membership & Development Manager, Sarah Braverman at sbraverman@cbca.org.