Bio & Contact

Contact Information

Carolyn Damstra
(517) 214-0878
carolyn@artsmad.com

Education

Master of Arts/Art History, Michigan State University

Bachelor of Fine Arts/Studio Art-painting, drawing and printmaking, Michigan State University

Art in London Study Abroad Program, Michigan State University

Private art instruction from professional artist Stanley Myers

Fellow, Knight Center for Environmental Journalism, Michigan State University

Internship with Natural Science Magazine, Michigan State University

Primary illustrator and cartographer for Michigan History and Michigan History for Kids magazines using Adobe Illustrator, colored pencil, watercolors and acrylics. 

Book illustrations: You Wouldn't Like it Here Anyway, and Lumberjack from North Country Publishing, and Fort Wilkins Yesterday and Today from Michigan History. 

Murals: Michigan State University Bug House and Butterfly House, ancient Greece-themed murals for a spa in a private home and children's bedroom murals. 

Adjunct instructor, art history, Olivet College, Olivet, MI.  

Arts and Crafts instructor, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Interlochen, MI 

Program Manager, Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs 

Exhibitions

One-person show at the Michigan Women's Historical Center and Hall of Fame

Art Reach Center of Mid-Michigan

Lansing Art Gallery

Private gallery in Lake Tahoe, California 

Writing experience

Served for many years as an editor for Michigan History magazine, Michigan History for Kids and associated books and products. Main responsibilities included researching and writing numerous articles, creative collaboration on magazine design and content, editing and proofreading articles, coordinating projects with authors, photographers, print vendors and designers.   

Co-authored Making Music: Michigan's Rock and Roll Legacy from Michigan History.