Say hello to Hailey Ciesluk in our Volunteer of the Month Spotlight
At Cultivate, we believe in celebrating the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to enriching our community and advancing our mission. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization, bringing our programs to life and creating a vibrant, nurturing environment for all who walk through our doors. To honor their invaluable contributions, we are thrilled to share our "Volunteer of the Month" blog series.
Each month, we will spotlight one outstanding volunteer, sharing their stories, achievements, and the impact they've made on Cultivate and the broader Grand Rapids community. Through these stories, we hope to shine a light on the diverse talents and compassionate spirits that make Cultivate a place where art and community flourish together.
It's our pleasure to spotlight Hailey Ciesluk (She/They), an amazing person whose commitment and creativity have greatly contributed to the essence of Cultivate, especially our Teen Open Studio. We were lucky to work with Hailey for nearly two years, as they were our Digital Marketing Coordinator, and when they left to work with Meijer Gardens, they continued to support our Teen Open Studio nights! They have been instrumental in bringing innovation and energy to our community, exemplifying the power of volunteerism. Their involvement is incredibly kind and supportive to our teens!
Please read their interview below -
Cultivate: What’s one of your favorite memories from volunteering with Cultivate?
Hailey: In October, one of the Teen Open Studios was the day before Halloween, so we decided to have a spooky-themed open studio! Everyone wore costumes, we listened to all the Halloween classics, there was candy - it was a great evening!
Cultivate: How do you practice or participate in art?
Hailey: I am an interdisciplinary painter with a focus in research-based storytelling, primarily using the method pointillism. My background’s in illustrations, but more recently I spent time with Cultivate honing skills in marketing, curation, and arts administration. That’s also how I found a passion for working with young artists and encouraging their blossoming enthusiasm of art. Art is truly what I live and breathe, and I am so thankful to have it shape so much of my life!
Cultivate: Are there any artists that have been inspiring you lately?
Hailey: I feel like all I do (especially on social media) is be inspired by other artists. Lately, I’ve really been moved by Alynn Guerra of Red Hydrant Press (@redhydrantpress) and their work with printmaking and environmental activism.
Anything from Taxonomy Press (@taxonomypress). Their risograph printer makes the most delicious color schemes/print quality and I’m obsessed. Especially their Floral Observer Newspaper and all the associated artists!
And of course, I have to mention Ai Weiwei (@aiweiwei) because his work inspires me literally every day. Check out his autobiography!
Please see and support Hailey's art practice and work at their instagram - @hailey.ciesluk and their website is www.haileyciesluk.com