How long have you been with VLS?
Just over a month
What do you like about the lighting industry?
I love that our industry utilizes both sides of your brain. There is a large part that is analytical and requires you to take into account the math – angles, beam spreads, color temperature, intensities, knowledge of electricity, etc. But it also has a huge creative component that can’t be ignored. After you get through the analytical stuff, you still have to remember that lighting is also an Art that needs you to step back and see how it all comes together. Something can check all of the analytical boxes, but still not be the best choice because it doesn’t fit in with the aesthetic, the feel of the rest of the lights, or even best serve a story of a production that you may be working on. When you go back and look at so many of the giants in our field, you will see how they expertly used both of the aspects to create some amazing lighting.
Who inspires you?
So many people!!! My mother and Janis Joplin are the two that immediately come to mind. There really are too many to name. I can say that the people who inspire me the most have taught me to actively seek out knowledge and beauty in this world. Doing so means you will never cease to be amazed.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter the lighting industry?
Keep your eyes open. Everything that you see is based on light and how it reacts with the world. Make mental notes of the lighting inside, outside, when you travel, what you see in art, what you see in television and movies, how does it look on different surfaces and on different structures. All of this will become references for you when you are designing or working with others to create the lighting in a space. Lighting can determine the mood and feel of a place, so pay attention and you can build up your own reference library in your mind.
What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — you have learned in the last month?
I learned that the box spring to my bed does not fit up the stairs to my bedroom. You learn all kinds of fascinating things while moving.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I have lived in 9 different states since I graduated high school. And TSA finds me terrifying.
What’s the last book you read?
The Five by Hallie Rubenhold – Its a great in depth biography of the 5 canonical victims of Jack the Ripper. (yes I will freely admit to being a nerd)
What is your favorite hobby?
Making things is probably the best way to say it. My hands are almost always moving making/drawing/painting things. I like seeing things come together to make something new. I’m also an avid reader.
What’s the first concert you ever attended?
First concert was The Bangles. This started a live music addiction. Most recent concert was Red Hot Chili Peppers, and the band I have seen the most number of times in concert is CAKE.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
Such a loaded question! I absolutely love travel and experiencing new places. The two biggest Bucket List travel items are to see the Northern Lights in person, and to see every continent.
If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Bring on the pasta!
What’s one item you can’t live without?
Diet Dr Pepper – bring on the judgement, I know I’ve earned it.
