Emily Altman: A career in art and media
Emily Altman has carved out a distinguished career at the intersection of art, media, and education, amassing nearly two decades of experience across both for-profit and non-profit arts institutions. Her multifaceted professional journey showcases a deep understanding of artistic operations, production, and curation. Altman’s expertise spans a wide range, from her foundational work in major art institutions to her impactful contributions in the vibrant world of animated film and television. Her dedication to the arts is evident in her roles, which consistently blend creative vision with robust operational management.
Early years and education
Emily Altman’s academic foundation in the arts is robust and diverse, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of art history, visual arts administration, and technical theatre design. She earned a B.A. in Art History from Bucknell University, a degree that instilled in her a critical eye for artistic movements and historical context. This was further complemented by an M.A. in Visual Arts Administration from New York University, equipping her with the essential skills for managing and leading arts organizations. Complementing her academic pursuits, Altman also holds a BFA in Technical Design for the Theatre from Northern Illinois University, a qualification that underscores her practical understanding of the theatrical production process, from concept to execution. This blend of art historical knowledge, administrative acumen, and technical theatre expertise has been instrumental in shaping her versatile career.
The role at Grace Farms Foundation
At the Grace Farms Foundation, Emily Altman serves as the Director of Arts Operations, Publications and Exhibits. In this pivotal role, she oversees a broad spectrum of activities designed to foster cultural engagement and artistic expression. Her responsibilities encompass the strategic direction and daily management of arts operations, ensuring the smooth execution of exhibitions and the development of compelling publications. Altman’s leadership in this capacity is crucial to the Foundation’s mission of bringing people together through art and nature, curating experiences that are both enriching and thought-provoking. Her work involves coordinating various artistic initiatives, managing budgets, and collaborating with artists and stakeholders to bring the Foundation’s vision to life.
Emily Altman: Successes in film and television
Emily Altman has achieved significant recognition for her impactful work in the realm of animated film and television. Her contributions as a writer and producer have been instrumental in the success of several highly acclaimed projects, demonstrating her talent for crafting compelling narratives and bringing them to life on screen. Her involvement in these productions highlights her ability to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry and deliver engaging content that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Awards and nominations
Emily Altman’s exceptional contributions to television have been recognized with multiple prestigious nominations. She has received four Emmy nominations from the Television Academy. These include three nominations for Outstanding Animated Program in consecutive years: 2019, 2020, and 2021. This consistent recognition for her work in animation speaks volumes about her dedication and skill in producing high-quality animated content. Furthermore, she earned one Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing For A Variety Series in 2014, showcasing her versatility and talent across different television formats. In addition to her Emmy accolades, Altman has also garnered one Annie Award nomination and three WGA (Writers Guild of America) Award nominations, further solidifying her standing as a respected figure in the writing and production landscape.
Known for: „Big Mouth” and „Spies in Disguise”
Emily Altman is widely recognized for her significant involvement in the critically acclaimed animated sitcom „Big Mouth”. As a writer and producer on this show, she has been instrumental in developing its unique comedic voice and tackling mature themes with wit and originality. Her work on „Big Mouth” has been a cornerstone of its success and critical acclaim. Beyond television, Altman has also lent her talents to the animated feature film „Spies in Disguise”. In this action-comedy, she is credited with providing voice performances for characters such as Lead Agency Lab Tech and Scooter Girl. This dual role as both a creative force behind the scenes and a voice actor on screen demonstrates the breadth of her talents within the animation industry. Her filmography also includes notable contributions to series like „Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” and „Digman!”, further cementing her reputation as a versatile and accomplished professional.
The theater educator Emily Altman
Beyond her celebrated work in animation, Emily Altman is a dedicated educator who shares her extensive knowledge and passion for the performing arts with the next generation of artists. Her commitment to teaching is deeply rooted in her practical experience as a scenic artist and her understanding of theatrical production, making her a valuable mentor to students.
Career at DePaul University
Emily Altman holds a significant position at The Theatre School at DePaul University, where she serves as the Paint Shop Supervisor. In this capacity, she not only manages the practical operations of the paint shop but also plays a crucial role in educating students in the intricate craft of scenic artistry. Her hands-on experience and deep understanding of theatrical design and execution make her an invaluable instructor, guiding students through the technical and artistic challenges of bringing stage designs to life. Her tenure at DePaul University highlights her commitment to fostering artistic talent and contributing to the vibrant theatrical education landscape.
Scenic artist in Chicago
As a scenic artist based in Chicago, Emily Altman has established a strong reputation for her exceptional skill and dedication to the craft of theatrical design. She has worked extensively as a charge artist at Left Wing Scenic and as a freelance painter for various theatre companies, contributing her talents to numerous productions. Her artistic vision and meticulous execution have been vital in creating visually stunning and immersive stage environments. Beyond her individual artistic contributions, Altman has also demonstrated leadership in the arts community by leading teams on outdoor mural projects and actively engaging with aspiring artists through hosting art workshops and seminars. This multifaceted involvement underscores her passion for visual arts and her commitment to sharing her expertise and fostering creativity within the Chicago arts scene.