Elise Gilbert

Freelance Artist & Program Manager at the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, 27

Elise Gilbert contributes to the Cultural Arts Alliance mission and the community by implementing arts programs that provide high-quality classes and opportunities for people of all ages. She aims to inspire others to invest in their unique gifts and approach creativity with a broad, inclusive perspective. Gilbert hopes to expand her role as an artist, particularly by creating public sculptures and aligning with local businesses and events, as well as building an art-based business that allows her to continue sharing her passion and skills and building meaningful relationships within her community.

What is the accomplishment you’re most proud of?

In 2024, I completed my largest sculpture to date that is now a part of the Underwater Museum of Art, reaching my goal to create artwork that also serves as an ecosystem.

What motivates you?

My motivation flows from many wells, but at its heart is a call to live a life shaped by creativity. Since childhood, I’ve been guided by a deep curiosity—a desire to question, explore, and transform ideas into something new.

What advice would you give to young people with a similar trajectory to yours?

As an artist, working for yourself is rarely a clear-cut path. Don’t be afraid to try different things and gain experience in a variety of areas. These experiences often contribute more to your creative practice than expected. Focus on your growth and celebrate your small successes along the way. They add up. In creative careers, adaptability, perspective, and resilience are just as important as talent.

How do you hope to make an impact within your community?

I hope to inspire others to invest in their unique gifts—whatever they may be—and to approach creativity with a broad, inclusive perspective. Many people will go through life and accept limiting beliefs, thinking that if they can’t draw realistically or mix colors effortlessly, they must lack artistic talent. But artistry is expansive. Creativity can shine through words, in the way someone builds relationships, or even in how they organize their day. Like any skill, creativity can be nurtured, practiced, and learned. In my role at the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, I’m fortunate to contribute to this mission by helping implement art programs that provide high-quality classes and opportunities for people of all ages in our community.

What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years?

 In the next five years, I hope to continue growing both personally and professionally as an artist creating public sculptures while also expanding my work into aligning avenues such as local businesses and events. Ultimately, I am working towards the long-term goal of building a successful art business, one that allows me to share my passion and skills with others while creating meaningful connections in my community.