Cay Mims
Chicago
Summary
Results-driven professional with expertise in coordinating arts-focused initiatives and community events. Skilled in managing logistics, developing strategic partnerships, and promoting equity within the Chicago arts landscape. Passionate about creating inclusive environments that elevate underrepresented and emerging artists.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Coordinator
Crayola LLC
04.2022 - Current
- Works cross-functionally to facilitate an annual National Arts Education Campaign, “Crayola Creativity Week", and ensure that retailer content aligns with the brand's mission, values and goals.
- Acts as liaison among corporate channels, local and national customers, and brokers to enhance communication.
- Collaborates with sales team to streamline processes and enhance communication efficiency.
- Manages scheduling, logistics, and sales materials for shows and product launches.
Independent Artist, Curator & Creative Event Planner
Self Employed
05.2021 - Current
- Creates events in collaboration with a number of community spaces like The Historic Logan Theater, The German Cultural Center and The Chicago Mosaic School.
- Curated exhibitions for marginalized artists in Chicago, overseeing artist and gallery fee collection, exhibition development, social media promotion, and installation.
- Maintains up-to-date knowledge of the Chicago art landscape, artists, venues, and grants/opportunities.
- Develops marketing materials to promote artwork through social media platforms.
Lead Volunteer
Buchanan Arts
07.2021 - 09.2021
- Promoted emergent arts education non-profit through fundraising and local marketing strategies.
- Worked with Director to develop equitable programming in predominantly Black North Nashville.
- Streamlined workspace layout to create optimal space for community learning and collaboration.
Teaching Assistant
Vanderbilt University
01.2021 - 05.2021
- Cultivated teaching materials to ensure content and methods of delivery met department learning objectives
- Evaluated student learning styles to customize support for individual needs
- Facilitated communication between students and faculty, enhancing understanding and collaboration
- Spearheaded efforts to unroll a dynamic inter-university art seminar: Engine for Art Democracy & Justice
Gallery Manager Assistant
Space 204 Gallery, Vanderbilt University
08.2020 - 05.2021
- Coordinated exhibition logistics and timelines in collaboration with artists and faculty to ensure successful event execution.
- Prepared and handled works for hanging and exhibition through frame construction, matting, and photography to ensure optimal presentation.
- Designed exhibition previews, graphics, catalogues, and invitations through analogue and digital methods.
Vice President of Membership
Vanderbilt University Marching Band
09.2017 - 05.2021
- Redesigned curriculum to address virtual needs during the pandemic.
- Developed and implemented membership recruitment strategies to enhance participation and visibility.
- Coordinated communication among National Executive Officers, University Faculty, and members to ensure alignment and engagement.
- Managed event itineraries, budget and expense sheets, and handling of invoices for 100+ band members.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN05-2021
Bachelor of Arts - Studio Arts
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN05-2021
Skills
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
- Adobe Suite
- Relationship management
- Effective communication
- Public speaking
- Community and equity focused
Languages
- Spanish, conversant
- English, fluent
Timeline
Sales Coordinator
Crayola LLC
04.2022 - Current
Lead Volunteer
Buchanan Arts
07.2021 - 09.2021
Independent Artist, Curator & Creative Event Planner
Self Employed
05.2021 - Current
Teaching Assistant
Vanderbilt University
01.2021 - 05.2021
Gallery Manager Assistant
Space 204 Gallery, Vanderbilt University
08.2020 - 05.2021
Vice President of Membership
Vanderbilt University Marching Band
09.2017 - 05.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Vanderbilt University
Bachelor of Arts - Studio Arts
Vanderbilt University