As I reflect on my time at the OJAC, I can’t help but feel sentimental for these 8 short months. Over the course of my last 2 semesters of my undergrad at ACU I have had the greatest opportunity to work as assistant to the education department.
My days out here have consisted of anything and everything, but mostly graphic design. From designing media for programming to creating virtual tours from our collections, writing collections spotlights for socials, to building balloon-arches and face painting at festivals– I have gained so much experience I can’t wait to take with me as I begin a new chapter of my life post-grad.
My all time favorite task here definitely had to be crafting Museum- Mixtapes (collection inspired playlists for the OJAC Spotify Channel)! I love unearthing the connections that already exist between the tangible art pieces at the museum and the art of music that exists in the air all around us. By creating these audio visual experiences I was able to combine 2 of my greatest passions- and put y’all on to some good music!
As I have been wrapping up my degree in graphic design, I have loved being able to use my skills to bring to life the ideas of the OJAC staff to make great things happen! It has been such a joy to use what I know to further the mission of the OJAC- to broaden engagement with visual art and culture through exhibitions, education, and preservation.
I’m reminded of my own first experiences with art education, when OJAC educators in red aprons came to my school. Because of these positive experiences with art and museums, I chose to pursue a degree and career in the art field. It is such a full circle moment to have ended up back at the OJAC while I spend my last months in Abilene.
Growing up, my favorite memories took place in museums, taking in the wonder of it all. Throughout my internship at the Georgia O’Keeffe museum in Santa Fe during the summer of 2024, I realized I wanted to not only just enjoy museum spaces, but work within museum spaces to inspire those positive experiences for all. I can only hope that as a result of my time here, somewhere someone else is learning to love museums too!
Summer Rektenwald
Undergraduate Assistant
OJAC Education Department