51猎奇

PSOA Alum Named Sculpture Milwaukee Executive Director

John Riepenhoff; Photo by Daniel McCullough, courtesy of Sculpture Milwaukee

Milwaukee Sculpture has named PSOA alum John Riepenhoff (BFA 2004, Art: Sculpture) as its new Executive Director. 鈥淚 see my leadership role at Sculpture Milwaukee as an opportunity to forward the direction established in the first seven years of our organization, with respect for major currents in art while giving attention to undercurrents and the unexpected, with a focus on underrepresented artists,鈥� Riepenhoff told Milwaukee Magazine. He also curated Sculpture Milwaukee鈥檚 7th season, 鈥淎ctual Fractals, Act I,鈥� which showcases a diverse collection of sculptures by seven artists. Read the full story on

PSOA Alum Speaks to W51猎奇 about Milwaukee鈥檚 Creative Sandbox

Michael Lagerman photo courtesy of Imagine MKE

Michael Lagerman (MFA 2021, Art) talked with Creative MKE host Elisabeth Gasparka about “the magic of collaboration, the challenges of inhabiting the space between emergent and establish artist, and Milwaukee as a creative sandbox.” Lagerman recently joined Imagine MKE as Development Coordinator, but he鈥檚 also an accomplished artist, collaborator, and programmer within Milwaukee’s art scene.听Listen to the

Alumni Spotlight: Exploring the Intersection of Art and Design in a Digital Space

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Justin Edwards

Justin Edwards I BFA 2003, Art: Painting & Drawing

Justin Edwards is a talented artist and creative currently holding the position as Vice President of Global Digital Creative and Social Design at MAC Cosmetics. With a deep-rooted passion for visual arts, Justin鈥檚 educational and professional journey has been characterized by his ability to bridge art and design in the digital realm.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

When asked about what inspired him to pursue a BFA, Justin shared, 鈥淭he visual arts were something I was always interested in. During my time at 51猎奇 I majored in Drawing & Painting then picked up Graphic Design during the end of my sophomore year. It was an opportunity to apply the things I loved about art within a space that had so much potential (digital).鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

Reflecting on his experience at 51猎奇, Justin highlighted the invaluable contributions of his professors, 鈥淭here were so many professors I would love to write about. Two profoundly important ones were Joan Dobkin and Pam Schermer. Joan taught in the Graphic Design program and brought a rigor to typography influenced from her MFA time at Cranbrook. She blew my mind wide open into what was possible with type and expressing design through typography. Pam Schermer is an artist and was one of my favorite Painting Professors. I took as many courses of hers as I could to be educated by her teachings informed by the German Expressionist Hans Hoffman who she studied. Her eye for composition and dynamism are techniques I use every day and couple with my graphic design. I was fortunate to have had such incredible teachers.鈥� 

Forging a Creative Path in the Digital Era 

Justin鈥檚 time at 51猎奇 was foundational in shaping his ability to recognize and critique design, while also producing it. Studying during a time when the internet was emerging as a platform, Justin found himself navigating a space that was, “a very wild space, mostly utility but also a ripe underground place for weird digital art.鈥� Ultimately, Justin鈥檚 passion to learn and apply art into that digital space led him to graphic design and inspired him to bridge the gaps between design and art, fostering a creative mindset that resonates in a modern context.

Achievements and Contributions

Since graduating from Peck School of the Arts, Justin has garnered numerous awards, recognitions, and achievements for his creative work. Some notable accolades include:聽

Clio Short List 2017 Fashion and Beauty , Marc Jacobs Daisy IR Magazine People’s Choice Award for Innovation 2017, Est茅e Lauder Companies 20th Webby Awards Judge 2015, Pixel Awards People’s Choice 2015 (Fashion), Clio Awards 2015 Finalist, Est茅e Lauder Global Digital Flagship Clio Awards 2015 Finalist, Est茅e Edit (Now titled Est茅e Stories) Webby Awards 2015 Honoree, Cole Haan Zero Grand Digital Campaign Clio Awards 2014 Finalist, Tory Burch Beauty Digital Campaign Webby Honoree 2012, Jurlique.com Communication Arts – Web Pick of the Day 10.2011, The Frye Company National Silver ADDY Award 2009, Truvativ Hammerschmidt Webby Honoree 2008, Travel Wisconsin TASCHEN Books 2008, Web Design: Interactive & Games Design Charts 2007 #1 Placement, Peter DiAntoni Photography Adobe Site of the Day 2006, Nike Cycling Web Marketing Association Award for Commercial Excellence 2006, Alterra Coffee Roasters Macromedia Site of the Day 2004, Trek Bikes of the Tour Macromedia Site of the Day 2004, Trek Bikes Project One 

Connect with Justin

To learn more about Justin and explore his creative journey, you can visit his .

Studying Opera Abroad in Lucca, Italy

Headshot of PSOA student Scotlyn Haverkorn.

Scotlyn Haverkorn, a junior studying at PSOA, is about to embark on an exciting adventure to Lucca, Italy, for a summer intensive opera program.

From June 29 to July 19, Scotlyn will attend the Accademia Vocale Lorenzo Malfatti, where she will participate in a wide range of activities, including Italian diction classes, one-on-one coaching sessions, masterclasses, ensemble rehearsals, and concerts. 

Scotlyn鈥檚 passion for singing began in high school when she joined the choir. Attending 51猎奇鈥檚 Vocal Arts Festival in her senior year only grew her passion for the performing arts, sparking her inspiration to pursue a BFA in Music focusing on vocal performance. 

The Accademia Vocale Lorenzo Malfatti only accepts a select few applicants each summer, and Scotlyn is one of them. Her hard work and dedication paid off as she received a scholarship to attend the program. She is eager to immerse herself in the European standard of opera and classical music and is excited to make new connections and gain a fresh perspective during her time in Italy.  

Although she plans to return to the Milwaukee area after college, Scotlyn hopes that this summer program is just the beginning of her musical career in Europe. With this opportunity under her belt, the future is looking bright for her! We can鈥檛 wait to see where her talent takes her next. 

Actual Fractals, Act I: Alum Curates Sculpture Milwaukee’s 7th Season

Suns Fall by Katy Cowan. Photo taken June 29, 2023 by Sophie Bolich.

Sculpture Milwaukee’s 7th season, “Actual Fractals, Act I,” showcases a diverse collection of sculptures by seven artists curated by Milwaukee-based artist and PSOA alum John Riepenhoff (BFA 2004, Art). 鈥淭here are many Milwaukees within this single city,鈥� Riepenhoff said in a statement. 鈥淲hile our parts can appear, and be, disjointed, there are also patterns that play out in our experiences across communities, generations and public and private spaces, connecting us intricately.鈥� The sculptures will be on display until October 2024 and offer residents, workers, and visitors the opportunity to experience public art and appreciate the urban environment of Milwaukee. Read the full article on .听

Alumni Spotlight: Lights, Camera, Action!

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Sarah Grubb

Sarah Grubb I BFA 2002, Theatre: Production

Sarah Grubb, currently the Managing Director at Grubb Productions LLC, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the world of production and event management. She has held many significant roles, such as the Head of Production for the Special Olympics USA Games, US Operations Director for The Creative Engagement Group, Technical Director for MC3, and an Operations Director for major events. Grubb鈥檚 outstanding contributions have been recognized with several shows she worked on earning Emmy Awards, further solidifying her expertise in the field.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

Driven by her love for theatre, Grubb was inspired to pursue a BFA in Theatre Production at 51猎奇鈥檚 Peck School of the Arts. Her passion for being involved behind the scenes led her to reflect, 鈥淚 always wanted to do theatre. In fact, I assumed I would audition for 51猎奇鈥檚 acting program, but it didn鈥檛 take too long for me to realize that I preferred being backstage.鈥�  

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

When asked about her most impactful experience at 51猎奇, Sarah acknowledged the significant contributions of her teachers, specifically Sandra Strawn and Chris Guse (Professor, Theatre Production). 鈥淚 honestly enjoyed all of my teachers at 51猎奇. But I would say that both Sandra and Chris impacted my success in a big way. They were always encouraging me to aim higher, and I felt it gave me a great understanding of why a strong work ethic is crucial. Chris actually taught a class called Verbal Aikido that I still think was one of the most valuable classes I ever took. It was about how to communicate better in a collaborative theatre setting. I absolutely loved this class!鈥�  

Advice to Students

Offering advice to current and future students at 51猎奇, Grubb emphasized the value of hard work, initiative, teamwork, and genuine passion for one鈥檚 craft. She stressed the need to prepare for increasing challenges as one progresses in their career. 鈥淚 would say it is very important to work hard. You will be forever employable if you show initiative, get along well with others and enjoy what you do. But be prepared as the more you move up, the harder you have to work! But every show I have ever worked on, all of the hard work paid off when I experienced the end result.鈥�

In addition to her role as Managing Director, Grubb also contributes as a writer to TheatreArtLife.com, sharing her expertise and experiences with a wide audience. One notable article that she wrote offers advice to students aspiring to pursue similar professions and can be found . In this piece, Sarah dives into the intricacies of her journey, providing valuable perspectives and guidance for those seeking to make their mark in the industry.

Connect with Sarah

To learn more about Sarah and explore her artistic endeavors, please visit her . You can also connect with her on .

Alumni Spotlight: Behind the Seams

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Brent Roberts

Brent Roberts I BFA 2011, Theatre: Costume Production

Brent Roberts is a talented Master Crafts Artisan/Dyer, currently showcasing his talent at Seattle Rep. Previously, Roberts worked as a Costume Crafts Assistant at The LA Opera and The Old Globe Theatre, further solidifying his expertise in the world of costume production. 

Educational Journey and Career Path 

When asked what inspired him to pursue a BFA in Costume Production at Peck School of the Arts, Roberts shared, “Ever since I was a kid, I鈥檝e wanted to be an artist. It wasn鈥檛 until I discovered the hobby of costuming/cosplay in the early 2000鈥檚 that I began to contemplate it as a career choice. I quickly grew passionate about the art form. When it came time to attend university my desire to know more about the professional techniques of costuming lead me to The Peck School of the Arts Theatre costume production program.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

During his time at 51猎奇, Roberts had the privilege of learning from professors who contributed to his artistic growth. In reflecting on his time at 51猎奇 and the professors who contributed to his experience, Roberts said, “All three of my professors (Pam Rehberg, Jeff Leider, and Louella Powell) at the time gave me invaluable skills. Painting and Dying is a class, (taught by Jeff Leider) that I have benefited from more than I could have imagined at the time. A large portion of my job at Seattle Rep revolves around very precise color matching with various dyes.鈥�

Advice to Students

Roberts’ advice to current and future students is to remain steadfast in pursuing their passion and never lose sight of the reasons that led them to choose a career in the arts. He encourages aspiring artists to 鈥淜eep following your passion and don’t lose sight of why you decided to go into the arts in the first place. Be open to moving to a new city if you鈥檙e offered your dream job. There were many low paying jobs, and some that didn鈥檛 pay me at all, along the way before I got to a staff position at a LORT theatre. Definitely demand your worth, but never settle for comfort if it means sacrificing your original dream (or a new one that has evolved along the way, sometimes that happens too.) 

Connect with Brent

To learn more about Roberts’ artistic journey, you can connect with on or stay updated through his Instagram: @brent_elsewhere.

Alumni Spotlight: Art, Community, and Environmental Impact

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Melanie Ariens

Melanie L. Ariens I BFA 1992, Art: Painting & Drawing and Printmaking & Book Arts

Melanie L. Ariens is a passionate artist and dedicated Creative Arts Manager currently working at Milwaukee Water Commons. With a lifelong love for the arts and a commitment to environmental issues, Ariens’ journey has been shaped by her creative pursuits and a deep connection to her community.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

When asked what inspired her to pursue a BFA in Painting, Drawing, and Printmaking, Ariens’s story traces back to her childhood. She shared, “My parents say they knew I would be an artist since I was 5 years old and tried to glue my artwork to the dining room wall. Coming from a skilled-trades family, I had what I call a “making things” problem and was always drawing, sewing, knitting, leather tooling, and even cake decorating. They fostered my creative interests and were makers themselves, making stained glass, building a wood-strip canoe, cutting apart and welding together old bikes; they had the do-it-yourself spirit and there was always something interesting going on. My parents were super supportive of my creativity and because of my interests, I attended Alverno’s Young People’s Art Program from age 5-13. I also had excellent art teachers in the Greendale Public Schools, namely Virgilyn Driscoll in High School, who pushed me to pursue art and led me to opportunities to attend UW-Green Bay’s Summer Art Camp and Summer Figure Drawing studio at MIAD. The decision to attend 51猎奇 was easy since it was so accessible and affordable. I feel that Milwaukee has evolved and is a great place for students. It’s big enough to feel urban and has a vibrant arts scene, but it’s small enough to feel like home. My general feeling is that Milwaukee has a warm, welcoming and supportive arts community.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

Throughout her time at Peck School of the Arts, Airens was able to learn from an assortment of faculty from diverse disciplines. While specializing in Painting, Drawing, and Printmaking, she also enjoyed Fibers and Ceramics. She noted, 鈥淭here were so many faculty I enjoyed working with. My degree is in Painting, Drawing and Printmaking, but I really enjoyed learning all the disciplines, especially fibers and ceramics, and I create mixed-media art today. The late professors Anthony Stoeveken, Jack Waldheim, John Colt, Lawrence Rathsack, were all influential. Marna-Goldstein Brauner, Leslie Vansen, and Jill Sebastian – I am grateful to still cross paths and have connections to them and am still inspired by their incredible creative practices.鈥� 

Advice to Students

Airens’ advice to current and future students is to immerse themselves in the studio and seize every opportunity available. She emphasizes, 鈥淵ou will learn as much from your peers as you will from your professors, so support each other and keep in touch with them beyond university. This is the time to take risks and try everything. If you aren’t making some bad art along the way, you aren’t taking enough risks. Your best work will come when you are teetering on the edge of your comfort zone. Explore other interests deeply because they will influence your art work. I enjoyed taking Environmental Studies, Geology and Genetics classes, and these interests are still a big part of my work. There are so many great, free or cheap programs at 51猎奇 to intersect with, like the Science Bag, the Manfred Olson Planetarium, the Union Cinema, the Union Art Gallery – Check it all out! Explore creating community art and get involved with organizations that interest you outside of art. You never know when sharing your creativity will inspire and have an impact. If you are on the fence about whether or not to enroll, know that right now, I am also the proud mother of a current Peck School of the Arts student! My daughter, Dora Peregrine, attended the University of Denver for two years, but made the switch to 51猎奇 and couldn’t be happier with the change to a larger program with excellent faculty. She appreciates the diversity and the way 51猎奇 is engaged throughout the city as a whole.鈥� 

Achievements and Contributions

Since graduating from 51猎奇, Arnies has achieved notable recognition for her creative work. Her focus on the Great Lakes and freshwater issues has led to regional exhibitions, including a showcase at the Museum of Wisconsin Art. Beyond her work winning awards in several exhibitions, Melanie was recognized as the Community Partner of the Year Award from 51猎奇 after mentoring 51猎奇 Community Arts Students. Melanie also shared, 鈥淢ost recently I was the first artist recognized by the River Network, a National Organization, for my work with Milwaukee Water Commons. I received the River Hero Award, which has been given to 5 people annually for 20 years – so hopefully they will continue to recognize artists’ contributions to environmental issues. I am excited to have the first solo show in the newly renovated Union Art Gallery this Fall. I worked for the Union Art Gallery as a college student, so it feels like a full circle moment.鈥� 

Connect with Melanie

To explore Ariens’ artistic endeavors, please visit her . You can also learn more about Melanie鈥檚 work with Milwaukee Water Commons .

Alumni Spotlight: Art as a Dialogue

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Nirmal Raja

Nirmal Raja I MFA 2012, Art

Nirmal Raja, an accomplished independent artist, stands as a testament to the profound impact that 51猎奇鈥檚 Peck School of the Arts can have on one鈥檚 creative journey. Her story serves as a compelling example of how an arts education can shape and empower aspiring artists to pursue their passions.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

When asked about what inspired her to pursue an MFA at PSOA, Raja shared, 鈥淚’ve always known I wanted to spend my life thinking about art and making art. But I never got the opportunity to study till later in life. The Peck School is local, and I could study while still taking care of family. Although it was a practical choice, I feel very lucky to have attended this school.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

Throughout her time at Peck School of the Arts, Raja found inspiration and guidance from various sources. She noted, 鈥淭he first graduate seminar taught by Marcelino Stuhmer was one of the toughest courses but also the most important for me. My MFA committee of Leslie Vansen, Jessica Meuninck Ganger, and Nathaniel Stern were phenomenal! It was a diverse committee with varied backgrounds and experience, and this led to a lot of interesting discussions and feedback on my work.鈥� 

Advice to Students

Raja also highlights the exceptional dedication and unwavering support of the Peck School faculty, describing them as an exceptionally committed and encouraging group. When asked what advice she would give to current and future students, she emphasized, 鈥淭he faculty at the Peck School is one of the most dedicated and supportive groups I’ve ever met and worked with! I know that graduate school seems long when you start but it really goes by fast, and my advice is to take full advantage of the time there and also keep in touch with your faculty and cohort after leaving. These are lifelong relationships that will continue to benefit your growth. Grad school at Peck taught me to be curious throughout my life and being at Peck is just the beginning in your journey of learning and art making.鈥� 

Achievements and Contributions

Since graduating from 51猎奇 Peck School of the Arts, Raja has received numerous accolades and recognitions for her creative work. These include the Graduate of the Decade award from the 51猎奇 Alumni Association, the Mary L. Nohl Fellowship, the Milwaukee Arts Board Mildred Harpole Artist of the Year, and an Arts and Industry residency at the John Michael Kohler Art Center. These achievements exemplify the impact and significance of Raja鈥檚 artistic contributions to the local arts community.  

Connect with Nirmal

To learn more about Raja and explore her artistic endeavors, please visit her or connect with her on .

E-Flux Film Highlights the Creative Vision of FVANG’s Department Chair

Still from Wherever You Go, There We Are depicting a screen on a small table in a dark basement

Jesse McLean, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres at 51猎奇鈥檚 Peck School of the Arts was recently featured in E-Flux Film鈥檚 filmmaker staff picks. Her films, Just Like Us and Wherever You Go, There We Are, were highlighted and are a testament to McLean鈥檚 creative and unique perspective in pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.听聽

Read more about Jesse McLean on .

Alumni Spotlight: Crafting Creativity

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Shannon Molter

Shannon Molter I BFA, Art: Art Education and Jewelry & Metalsmithing

Shannon Molter is currently an Art Educator at Hawthorne Elementary School. Previously, Shannon worked at the Milwaukee Art Museum as both a Teen Programs Educator and a Youth and Family Programs Educator. 

Educational Journey and Career Path 

With a strong foundation in creativity and the desire to explore multiple areas of focus, Shannon found 51猎奇鈥檚 well-rounded degree program to be the perfect fit for their aspirations. In reflecting on what inspired them to pursue a BFA in both Art Education and Fiber Art, Shannon shared, 鈥淔rom the time I was very young, I knew my gifts were creative. 51猎奇 Peck School of the Arts offered a well-rounded degree program that allowed me to follow my curiosity and explore multiple areas of focus.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

Throughout their time at 51猎奇, Shannon encountered exceptional instructors who played pivotal roles in their experience and success. Shannon highlights, 鈥淜young Ae Cho, Marna Goldstein-Brauner and Kim Cosier were very influential instructors, opening my field of vision, challenging me, giving me unconditional support and encouragement. David Southward was also a generous mentor in the field of philosophy and human cognition.鈥� 

Advice to Students

Shannon values 51猎奇鈥檚 Peck School of the Arts as a nurturing environment that fosters creative expression and the discovery of one鈥檚 unique artistic voice. When asked about what advice they would give to current and future students at 51猎奇, Shannon expressed, 鈥�51猎奇 Peck School of the Arts is a great place to find your voice as a maker, where flexibility and diverse ideas create a home for expression.鈥� 

Achievements and Contributions

Since graduating from 51猎奇, Shannon has garnered recognition and achieved notable milestones in their career. Awards such as Art Educator of the Month from the Wisconsin Art Education Association and being named Art Museum Educator of the Year highlight their exceptional contributions to the field. Shannon’s achievements also include grants, guest lectures, curated exhibitions, and features in renowned publications.  

Connect with Shannon

To learn more about Shannon Molter and their artistic endeavors, please visit their Instagram profile, @shannon_lee_studios.

Alumni Spotlight: Finding Harmony in Motion

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Dan Schuchart

Dan Schuchart I BFA 2004, Dance and Painting & Drawing

Dan Schuchart is currently a part of the Teaching Faculty at 51猎奇鈥檚 Peck School of the Arts鈥� Department of Dance. Alongside his role at the university, he serves as the Co-Artistic Director of Wild Space Dance Company. Throughout his journey, Dan has also held teaching positions at Lawrence University, Beloit College, and UC Riverside. He shared his expertise as a guest teacher at esteemed institutions such as the Milwaukee Ballet, American College Dance Association Conferences, and public-school outreach programs. Dan has showcased his artistic versatility through working as a scenic painter for the movie, 鈥淧ublic Enemies,鈥� and as a scenic charge for renowned organizations like the Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Florentine Opera, and Skylight Music Theatre.听聽

Educational Journey and Career Path 

Dan鈥檚 passion for the arts stems from a lifelong connection to creativity. In reflecting upon what inspired him to pursue his BFA in Dance, he shared, 鈥淎rt has always been a way that I process the outer world and my inner experience. I was bedridden for a while as a boy due to an illness and I would spend my days drawing, which created a lifelong practice. I originally entered 51猎奇 as a Math major, but after the first year I realized that I missed the art studio too much, so I switched my major to what was then Painting/Drawing. With some serendipity of friends made at 51猎奇 and course requirements, I took a dance class. This tied together my love for the arts and physical athleticism. I soon added Dance as a second major and have been extremely fortunate to continue a life in these fields ever since.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

Among the influential figures in Dan鈥檚 journey, he highlighted Simone Ferro,聽鈥淪imone Ferro has been and continues to be a huge influence. She joined the Dance Department as a professor at the same time I became a Dance major, and she quickly made her mark on the department and on me. She always challenged you while being completely supportive and encouraging. I learned so much from Simone about the craft of dance and the art of pedagogy. This also led to other opportunities such as being her rehearsal assistant when she choreographed for the Milwaukee Ballet, and her professional experience around the world encouraged me to seek opportunities outside of the US, which greatly influenced my work.鈥澛�

Advice to Students

To current and future students, Dan shares valuable advice, 鈥淪tay curious and open. As much as college is a time to learn and hone one’s craft, it is also an opportunity to explore other fields and approaches. Take classes in the other PSOA departments and see their shows and exhibitions. Finding collaborators and like-minded people in other mediums is invaluable, both personally and professionally.鈥� 

Connect with Dan

To learn more about Dan Schuchart and his work, you can visit his biography on the UW-Milwaukee Arts Department website or explore the Wild Space Dance Company鈥檚 . 

Alumni Spotlight: The Transformative Power of Somatics and Dance

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Halie Bahr

Halie Bahr I BFA, Dance

Halie Bahr, currently working as an Assistant Professor of Dance at Southern Utah University, has an impressive career in the arts. She previously held positions as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Dance at Davidson College and a Visiting Lecturer of Dance at the University of Kentucky. 

Educational Journey and Career Path 

Halie鈥檚 decision to pursue a BFA in Dance at 51猎奇 stemmed from her deep connection to dance and the arts, which made her feel grounded in her own body.  Halie reflected, 鈥淚 loved the sensation and impact my body had in the studio space. I am a first-generation college student, who grew up in a rural farming community in Wisconsin. I graduated from high school a few years after the 2008 housing market crash and recession. This nationwide hardship negatively impacted the support and encouragement I received to major in Dance at 51猎奇. Many of the narratives I heard while exploring career options were quite discouraging of a career in the arts 鈥� 鈥榠t was unpractical, not enough money, what will you even do with it…鈥� Pursuing a degree at 51猎奇 Peck School of the Arts was inspired by a mix of rebellion, deep-seated curiosity, and intuition that there was more to this career path than I, or the community around me, could imagine. I also had a high school dance teacher who recently graduated from 51猎奇鈥檚 PSOA in Dance. Her classes sparked me 鈥� I experienced a depth of body connectivity, intellectual rigor, anatomical knowledge, and heart that I didn鈥檛 know dance could become. When finally attending 51猎奇, the coursework and faculty greatly expanded what I thought was initially possible and helped me brainstorm ways to create a life in dance.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

When asked about classes or faculty members that helped contribute to her experience and success, Halie credited the Composition and Somatics focus in the curriculum, 鈥淟ooking back on my time as a Dance Major at 51猎奇, the focus on Composition and Somatics greatly aided my professional success. This is a rare curriculum feature that is unique to the Department. In hindsight, the faculty at 51猎奇 were creating gritty artists that were responsive to the changing professional dance field. Post-graduation, I moved to Minneapolis, MN to dance. I often made my own creative work when I didn鈥檛 have a professional performance opportunity. Had there not been a strong foundation at 51猎奇 in Composition, and the encouragement to show creative work in the greater Milwaukee dance community, I may have easily given up during these incredibly challenging post-graduation times. Additionally, Somatics was a huge emphasis in the program and was woven into many facets of coursework. Somatics simply means thinking about the mind and body as one entity. This approach, woven throughout the curriculum in Dance, completely transformed how I viewed myself, and the awareness I had of the environment around me. I became a socially responsible artist who has the tenacity and grit to think on my feet, experiment wildly, believe in (and take care of) myself, and continuously show up, even on the most challenging days.鈥� 

Advice to Students

Halie encourages current and future students to invest in the people around them and seek a supportive community that fosters curiosity, empathy, and self-compassion. She attributes her transformational undergraduate college experience to professors who became life-long mentors and colleagues who were once peers when attending 51猎奇. She shared, 鈥淚 never imagined that I would have gained a genuine community like this! My advice would be to continue to invest in the people around you 鈥� surround yourself with those who support and encourage your questioning, deep curiosity, empathy, and self-compassion. The balance of challenge and support was crucial to my evolution both while attending 51猎奇 and post-graduation.鈥� 

Achievements and Contributions

Since graduating from 51猎奇 Peck School of the Arts, Halie has achieved several awards and recognition for her creative work. She earned an MFA in Modern Dance from the University of Utah on a fully funded scholarship. In 2021, she received the Jon Scoville/Tandy Beal Award for her experimental and innovative choreography. Halie鈥檚 performances and choreographic works have been showcased at prestigious venues nationally, including The Walker Art Center, Milwaukee Art Museum, Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, and more. She has also served as a Rehearsal Director for renowned artists and holds certifications as a Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst and a Registered Somatic Movement Educator. In 2022, she received the Utah Division of Arts and Museums Artist Career Advancement Scholarship, and she has conducted academic dance-making courses within the Utah Department of Corrections. Halie鈥檚 research on trauma and recovery in socially conscious creative art education has led collaborative publications and presentations across the nation. 

Connect with Halie

To learn more about Halie Bahr and explore her artistic endeavors, please visit her .

Alumni Spotlight: Dancing with Purpose

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Victoria Isaac

Victoria Isaac I BA 2021, Dance

Victoria Isaac is currently a Teaching Artist at Danceworks MKE. Her previous positions include being a Lecturer at 51猎奇鈥檚 Department of Dance, a Dance Instructor at Schauer Arts Center, and a Teaching Artist at Wild Space Dance Company.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

Victoria鈥檚 decision to pursue a BA in Dance at 51猎奇鈥檚 Peck School of the Arts was fueled by her desire to grow not only as a dancer but also as a dance educator. She recognized that Peck School of the Arts would provide her with the foundational tools and opportunities to thrive as both an artist and an artistic educator. Victoria emphasized, 鈥淚 knew that I wanted to grow not only as a dancer, but as a dance educator. I knew the 51猎奇 Peck School of the Arts would provide me the foundational tools and opportunities to thrive as both an artist and artistic educator.鈥� 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

Reflecting on her experience, Victoria acknowledges the significant contribution of Professor Maria Gillespie from the Department of Dance,聽鈥淧rofessor Maria Gillespie in the Department of Dance gave me valuable opportunities to research, curate, and implement movement curriculum for oppressed populations within the greater Milwaukee area, specifically incarcerated youth. I am very grateful for her support and mentorship!鈥澛�

Advice to Students

To current and future students, Victoria offers valuable advice of not hesitating to approach professors for ways to get involved both within and outside of 51猎奇. She shared, 鈥淒on’t be afraid to ask professors about ways to get involved both within and outside of 51猎奇. The faculty members at 51猎奇 are involved in various ways across the state of Wisconsin and beyond, and I’ve never encountered a situation in which someone was hesitant to provide resources in my journey!鈥� 

Achievements and Contributions

Since graduating from PSOA, Victoria has received recognition for her creative work. She has presented her work in multiple venues throughout Milwaukee, including the Restore Arts Festival founded by Jade Charon, the Hip Hop DNA event hosted by Flutes at Dawn, Inc., and the Rhythmworks event hosted by Danceworks MKE.  

Alumni Spotlight: Beyond the Curtain Call

Headshot of 51猎奇 Alumni Rachel Foster

Rachel Foster I Theatre Production, BFA

Rachel Foster is currently an Automation Technician at Felt Entertainment.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

While reflecting on what inspired her to pursue a BFA in Theatre Production, Rachel said, 鈥淚 was first working towards a different degree, while at night I worked with professional theatre technicians having careers I鈥檇 dreamed about. Seeing so many young technicians successful and confident in their careers inspired me to make the transfer and pursue a theatre degree at 51猎奇 PSOA.鈥�  

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

When asked about a class or professor that Rachel felt contributed to her success at 51猎奇, Rachel expressed her gratitude, saying,聽鈥淚t is impossible to pick just one professor that contributed to my success, every PSOA professor I worked with cared about me on an individual level and supported me in my specific goals and personal journey. Specifically, though, I will never have enough gratitude for the support from Chris Guse, Steven White, and Jessica Berlin Krivsky. Thank you everything.鈥澛犅�

Advice to Students

Rachel鈥檚 parting advice for current and future students is to embrace the opportunities that come their way. She emphasized the importance of having goals but cautioned against becoming too fixated on following a predetermined path. Rachel鈥檚 words of wisdom echoed, 鈥淚t鈥檚 important to have goals, but don鈥檛 get too caught up on the 鈥渞ight way鈥� to get there. Especially if it鈥檚 an opportunity to learn, always take it, you can never learn too much, and you never know what you鈥檒l discover a passion for.鈥�