Officially Welcoming Krista Holt as our Operations and Programs Manager!
Krista, just after graduation, standing proudly by the Watauga Arts Council sign.
If you aren’t subscribed to our newsletter or follow us on our socials, you might have missed a recent update: The Watauga Arts Council is thrilled to officially welcome Krista Holt as our new Operations and Programs Manager!
Krista’s journey with the Arts Council has been a dedicated one. After starting as a volunteer, she quickly became an integral part of the team, stepping into an interim role last September. Her hard work, vision, and passion for the arts have made a lasting impact, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her continue in this official capacity.
“I feel so fortunate to be part of an organization that values creativity, community, and accessibility in the arts,” Krista shared. “I’ve loved every minute of my time here, and I’m excited to keep growing our programs and supporting the artists and art lovers who make this community so special.”
Krista is originally from Mooresville, North Carolina, but has been living in Boone for the past 4, almost 5, years. Now a proud graduate of Appalachian State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Art and Visual Culture this past May, she’s pursuing her Master’s in Nonprofit Administration and Development, a perfect fit for her growing role in arts management.
Before joining WAC, Krista gained experience with several arts organizations throughout the High Country, including Edgewood Cottage, Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM), and It’s All About the Art Gallery in Banner Elk. These experiences helped her develop a deep understanding of how art can connect people and enrich communities.
At WAC, Krista now leads efforts in event programming, day-to-day operations, arts education, and communications. She plays a vital role in working with others to create opportunities for local artists, students, and art enthusiasts alike.
Krista especially appreciates the collaborative environment at WAC, working closely with Executive Director Amber Bateman on a daily basis.
“I really feel like I’ve found where I belong, especially with Amber as such a wonderful leader and friend,” Krista said. “Our minds just seem to click. We think and work in ways that I like to think complement each other. That great synergy helps us both bring our best to the organization every day, and it’s so rewarding to be part of an environment where ideas and creativity flow so freely.”
Outside of her administrative and programming work, Krista dapples in the arts herself. She especially loves watercolor painting and really got into experimenting with various art media during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Art became an escape for me during a time when everything felt uncertain,” she said. “It gave me something steady to hold onto and became an outlet for creativity I hadn’t really explored before. I hope my work at WAC helps others discover their own connection to the arts in their local communities, just like I found mine.”
We’re ecstatic to have her on our team and can’t wait to see the inspiring work she’ll continue to do in our community!