Michelle Lynch Reynolds
Michelle Lynch Reynolds is San Francisco-based arts professional with a background in contemporary dance. She received her BA in Dance and International Studies from Goucher College (Baltimore) and MA in Dance Theatre from the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (London). Michelle was part of the inaugural fellowship of Emerging Arts Professionals in 2010, and she remains connected as part of its Advisory Board. Michelle is currently the Program Director at Dancers’ Group, where she produces free, site-specific dance performances throughout the year and supports dance-makers through administrative support, financial services, and grant-making.
Photo Credit: Jeff Lynch
What are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by those whose approach to their life, work, and artistry embraces complexity; who resist prescribing to the binaries or single-sidedness that is built into prominent cultural structures in the US. Those who listen and act. Who are agitated and funny, joyful and saddened. Who pursue ambitions and who rest.
My daughter is also an inspiration. She inspires me to step up my game and be my best self. Of the many hopes I have for her, my top three would probably be that she be joyful, just, and curious. I am inspired to be a model of that for her.
What is your go-to online tool?
Besides Google? The New York Times‘s “The Daily” podcast is a current go-to.
What’s a project that you think doesn’t get enough visibility?
I recently heard about the Full Cost Project, which has my attention. It’s a California-based initiative to research and advocate for a shift in non-profit funding models. They assert that our current structure systemically asks non-profits to under-report the true cost of their work. Over time, this has resulted in a cycle of scant financial resources, low salaries, and ultimately unsustainable cultures.
Who is your favorite artist/media-maker?
I would like to politely evade this question because I couldn’t possibly choose a singular favorite. But, if pressed, here are the first five that come to mind:
4) Ai Weiwei
5) Ohad Naharin
