Felisa Prieto
Sunrise,FL
Summary
Dynamic Art Programming Manager with a robust background in art education and curriculum development, complemented by extensive experience in gallery and operations management. Proven track record of curating engaging student exhibitions and leading workshops that inspire creativity and enhance critical thinking skills. Expertise in visual arts techniques, combined with effective classroom management strategies, ensures a productive learning environment. Demonstrated commitment to exceptional customer service and art handling, ensuring a welcoming and professional gallery environment. Proven ability to oversee complex operations and implement process improvements.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Cultural Arts Specialist
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB METRO DENVER
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Develop and execute art based lesson planning according to BGCMD standards
- Assist with the maintenance and educational portion of the club’s community garden
Art Specialist
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM DENVER
01.2024
- Implement art programming
- Assist staff with daily tasks in the Art Studio including organization, sales and preparation
Atelierista - Art Teacher
KLA SCHOOL OF FORT LAUDERDALE
01.2024
- Develop and execute Reggio Emilia based art curriculum
- Collaborate with administrative staff and classroom instructors in the creation of lesson planning
Cultural Affairs Facility Leader - appointed Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA)
CITY OF POMPANO BEACH CULTURAL AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Oversaw daily operations, maintain policies and procedures
- Monitored the usage, installation and break down of equipment during events
- Maintained facility equipment and inventory
- Revamped the Ceramics Studio and develop educational program
- Promoted events and programming through social media
- Recommended and evaluate goals and objectives in arts and culture programming
- Served as on-site liaison to provide oversight and management of programs, exhibitions and events
- Developed and implement 10 educational programs including Drawing Space and Raku Demo
- Collaborated with contractors and staff in the development of Pride Month and Centennial Celebration of Bailey Contemporary Arts events, as well as the Residency Program
- Recommended, assisted in and supported annual cultural arts programming and strategic planning that achieve the goals and objectives of the City and the Cultural Affairs Department
Exhibitions Assistant Freelance
NOMAD ART PROJECTS
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Researched documentation for upcoming exhibitions and implement artist database
- Designed and updated website, and social media content
- Assisted during exhibition installation and deinstallation process
- Developed art workshops targeted to families and children
Freelance Social Media Marketing
LATIN AMERICAN ART PAVILION
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Assisted in the creation of social media context
- Mentored staff on social media platforms and documentation of exhibitions
Community Initiatives Manager
YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM - YAA
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Developed a proposal for year-round project “YAA on the Go” including programming schedule, staff training, safety requirements, budget and transitional plan targeting underserved communities in Broward County
- Monitored funds for the construction and first year of operations of “YAA on the Go” initiative; resulting in the completion of the vehicle 15% below budget
- Collaborated with donors and local organizations to provide extracurricular programming and scholarship funds to families experiencing financial hardship
- Redesigned the “Girls N’ Power” curricula for PACE Center for Girls Broward, through the implementation of Florida Standard Assessments, artists talks and extracurricular activities; resulting in the approval for graduation credit, and a 50% increase in enrollment and completion of the program
- Redesigned, managed and implemented art programs for underserved youth in Broward County, leading to 64% learning curve in the first 6 months of implementation
- Redeveloped assessments and evaluations based on the Standard Assessment for Child Behavior and Development Stages, and the Florida State Department of Education Standard Vocabulary to provide appropriate age lexicon and pedagogy methods. Resulting in an 84% improvement overall
- Served as a liaison between YAA and non-profit partner organizations and governmental entities
- Provided data for grant writing purposes, newsletters to donors and board members, and for budget allocation for current and future programs serving communities at risk
- Planned, managed and coordinated public events with local artists and partnering governmental organizations, including the facing out plan and farewell event of the ArtHouse in Sistrunk Corridor
- Lead a team of 6 teaching artists and 4 onsite staff. Provided continued training and curriculum support
Outreach Associate
HOUSTON CENTER FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
01.2012 - 01.2014
- Redesigned and taught high school arts program, “Collaborations,” leading to a 50% increase in volume of applicants and a number of students receiving college scholarships
- Taught courses on photography, Photoshop and cyanotype to ages 6-17
- Managed the gallery and class registrations, including online payment and customer service
- Served as driver of the FlashDrive ambulance during the Art Car Parade
- Coordinated a team of 60 volunteers and staff during a fundraising auction event
Education
BFA - Environmental Art, Sustainability & Textiles
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago
01.2010
Certificate - Ecology Studies
Rice University
01.2016
Photography, Drawing & Painting Coursework
Broward College
01.2006
Sustainable Development - Coursework
Columbia University
01.2016
Food & Health - Coursework
Stanford University
01.2016
Skills
- Languages: Spanish (native)
- Portfolio development
- Art critique
- Gallery management
- Software platforms: Microsoft Suite, Google Drive, Mac, PC and Chrome
- CPR: Adult, Child, Infant & AED Training (BLS) and First Aid Certified
Languages
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Cultural Arts Specialist
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB METRO DENVER
01.2024 - 01.2025
Art Specialist
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM DENVER
01.2024
Atelierista - Art Teacher
KLA SCHOOL OF FORT LAUDERDALE
01.2024
Cultural Affairs Facility Leader - appointed Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA)
CITY OF POMPANO BEACH CULTURAL AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
01.2021 - 01.2022
Freelance Social Media Marketing
LATIN AMERICAN ART PAVILION
01.2020 - 01.2024
Exhibitions Assistant Freelance
NOMAD ART PROJECTS
01.2019 - 01.2021
Community Initiatives Manager
YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM - YAA
01.2018 - 01.2020
Outreach Associate
HOUSTON CENTER FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
01.2012 - 01.2014
Certificate - Ecology Studies
Rice University
Photography, Drawing & Painting Coursework
Broward College
Sustainable Development - Coursework
Columbia University
Food & Health - Coursework
Stanford University
BFA - Environmental Art, Sustainability & Textiles
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago
FREELANCE ART EDUCATION
- Experienced leader in Arts in Health programs for at-risk communities, collaborating with local artists and government agencies to deliver impactful public art initiatives nationwide. Skilled in curriculum development and arts instruction for youth (ages 5-17) across diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, and community centers. Notable teaching roles at organizations such as Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education, Good Shepherd Services (achieving top program evaluation), Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Aurora Picture Show, and the Art Institute of Weston.