Today, we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Hemphill.
Hi Kristin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always been a creative person and love working in many mediums. I began my career as a jeweler and then went on to become a costume and prop maker, creating high-end costume replicas from movies and TV shows. Once I discovered interior design, my world changed, and I saw the potential of unlimited materials, colors, and textures coming together to create spaces that evoke feelings.
After years of working with leading brands and clients nationwide on design projects, I discovered the emerging industry of experiential design and was captivated. Immersive Art was particularly interesting because of its unlimited opportunity and potential for bringing joy, thoughtfulness, and stories to people in new and exciting ways.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The challenges I’ve faced are certainly not unique to me. I was a young, single mom and then caregiver for my mother for ten years.
I got my degree and started my professional career much later than many of my peers. Challenges are just a thread in our stories that allow us to connect and find ways to grow and expand our understanding of ourselves and each other.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the Creative Director of Fairgrounds St. Pete. At Fairgrounds St. Pete, we work with creatives and artists of all types to curate and develop immersive Florida stories through art. We provide a space for artists to share their stories and support them with resources, technology, and other expertise so their vision can come to life.
We strive to expand what art is in the eyes of adults and children as they play, learn, and explore these Florida stories. I’m proud of the way we can collaborate both within our organization and with our community partners, artists, and others to create spaces to wonder and enjoy.
I am also proud of our accessibility and inclusion efforts within our hiring practices and the exhibit.
Making art accessible to all is something we strive for every day.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
We are so fortunate to live in the best area of Florida, one of the most beautiful places in the country.
We are surrounded by natural wonders, from freshwater springs to ancient Banyan trees and world-class beaches. The creative community in Tampa Bay is phenomenal, and I am grateful to have played a part in it.
As with all other growing communities, we have the ongoing challenges of equity and accessibility. My hope is that our community and leaders are able to develop and execute solutions that are beneficial to all populations.
Pricing:
- General Admission $27
- Florida Resident $25
- Children $22
Contact Info:
- Website: fairgrounds.art
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/floridarama.art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fairgroundsstpete
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/floridarama/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDbzSOVhGvdBqsKNWzeqsRg
- Other: tiktok.com/@fairgroundsstpete?lang=en
Image Credits
Sarah Hardin
