CHI Volunteer Spotlight: Megan Capps

Meet Megan Capps: A Spotlight on Our Dedicated Volunteer

Since joining the Chicago Studio in January, Megan Capps has quickly become one of our most patient, kind, and daring volunteers. Megan first learned about The Arts of Life through Vincent, a connection made through mutual friends in the art community. “I met Vincent through shows at LVL3 and through dancing,” she said. “Through him, I learned about The Arts of Life Band, attended shows, and participated in a Chili Cook-Off. I knew I wanted to get involved and, once I finished school in December, I finally had the time.”

Megan studied Art and Photography at Columbia College, where she also minored in Women’s and Gender Studies. “My practice is kind of all over the place,” she shared. “I use photography primarily as a tool for performance and self-portraiture, along with video work and some sculpture. I’m interested in pursuing a Master’s in Creative Arts Therapy.”

Megan has found her experience at the Chicago Studio to be incredibly rewarding. “I enjoy how supportive everyone is of one another’s practice,” she said. “It’s a really welcoming environment.” Over her time here, she has developed strong relationships with many studio artists. “I am fortunate enough to have a small unique bond with each artist,” she explained. “Benji and I talk about music. Frances and I share a special connection with just a glance and laughter. Kris is like a walking encyclopedia. Steve is a fantastic storyteller. I admire Jean’s self-confidence. Sue shows me new jewelry every week, which is a highlight of my day. Everyone is awesome.”

Megan also appreciates the artistic energy in the studio. “I feel like I’m constantly learning here,” she said. “Even though I’m only here one day a week, it’s the highlight of my week. Some of the coolest work I’ve seen made in Chicago over the last year is coming out of this studio.”

Below, you can view photos of Megan’s artwork. Many of her pieces secretly incorporate her lucky number. “I really love basketball,” Megan explained. “Larry Bird is my favorite player, and I always manage to incorporate his jersey number into my work, whether it’s doing something 33 times or for a length of time like 33 minutes.”

In her spare time, Megan enjoys scoping out art venues, listening to music, and watching TV. “I like house music and anything you can dance to,” she said. “For TV, I enjoy cooking shows and conspiracy theory programs. I also like to make my own work, visit museums, attend openings, support local artists, and make faces with my food—I’ve been really into that lately.” You can find Megan’s food faces, artwork, and more on her Instagram @larry_bird_jr._.