September 22, 2016

Meet a Community Art Star: Morgen Andoff

"Meet a Community Art Star" is a regular feature showcasing ArtStarts' amazing group of volunteers who are passionate, enthusiastic arts champions. Read more posts in this series.

Morgen Andoff has been a volunteering with ArtStarts since 2014. She has been a Special Events Assistant for ArtStarts on Saturdays and ArtStarts at River Market, our free monthly workshops for families. We have been so fortunate to have Morgen bring her warmth and smiles to our events—and in all that she does.

When did art start for you?

Both my parents are artistic; they actually met in art college. My dad taught industrial design and then made architectural models and my mom made and sold pottery for years. So maybe art started for me in the womb! I've been an artist since I could hold a pencil… there is proof in my parents' basement, there are boxes full of my drawings and doodles as a child.

What do you do here in Vancouver?

I currently work for a non-profit organization that provides medical camps for children and young adults with chronic, life-threatening and/or debilitating conditions. These experiences give participants the opportunity to explore the outdoors while developing greater social and environmental awareness, increased self-confidence and positive growth in attitudes towards physical activity. I enjoy cultural events in the city and I regularly participate in numerous fundraising races for worthy causes.

What is your definition of creativity?

I think creativity is making something or doing something in a unique, compelling personal manner, engaging all the senses to express an idea or get an emotional reaction.

How has your experience been volunteering at ArtStarts as a Special Events Assistant?

It's been wonderful and something I look forward to each month. It's been a great opportunity to meet new people and learn new things. I particularly enjoy watching the children and parents become so engaged in the various creative presentations.

What has been your favourite ArtStarts on Saturdays event so far?

Each and every event is so unique and fun. The movement workshop with Christian Swenson workshop sticks out to me as one of my favourites. It was amazing to see how engaged the audience was considering he had no props or script.

You have a very impressive history of various volunteer experiences. Why do you think it is important to volunteer?

I think volunteering is definitely important. For me, it brings out new interests, hobbies and opinions. I get opportunities to try new things, meet new people and give back to the community.

You have been volunteering at ArtStarts for years! We cannot thank you enough for your contributions. Why have you been with us for all this time?

Volunteering at ArtStarts allows me to experience different environments and different situations, as well as meet new artists and performers in the artistic community. I believe in the value of art, music, literature and the nurturing of all things creative as part of a well-rounded and fulfilling life and my volunteering at ArtStarts is a way to support and promote these endeavors. The staff and volunteers at ArtStarts are all so amazing and passionate about art and community. It's fantastic to be a part of such a great team!

Anything else you would like to add?

A quote from Pablo Picasso that resonates with me: "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."

Thank you, Morgen!

If you're interested in volunteering with ArtStarts, learn more about current opportunities at artstarts.com/volunteer

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