Arlene Elkins (’18)
A Jill of all trades, Arlene is a dancer and maker with a background in film, marketing, and exhibit media design. She has worked on exhibits for the Smithsonian, the Seacoast Science Center, the Virginia Historical Society, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, and many others.
When a number of dancers in her community moved from Boston to pursue their artistic careers, Arlene decided to become an art administrator in order to make the Boston area more artist-friendly. As a graduate of Boston University’s art administration masters program, she has studied affordable artist housing, community arts, cultural equity, and artists’ rights. She has worked with the Somerville Arts Council and currently works for Opus Affair. She also co-produces Cafe Raqs, a monthly dance showcase at the Arts at the Armory in Somerville.
The Arts Administration program opened up doors for me almost immediately. Being a part of this program has connected me to many other talented art administrators through its professors, students, and alumni. I’m lucky to be part of a program that is so highly regarded in Boston’s arts community!