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Lena Imamura
Artist & CoFounder of NAME GLO, a Creative Neon Light Studio
Professional Background
Lena Imamura is a dynamic entrepreneur and proud co-founder of Name Glo, a creative neon light studio and storefront located in the vibrant Lower East Side of New York City. With a focus on crafting custom and original neon lights that resonate with contemporary design enthusiasts, Name Glo stands as a testament to Lena's innovative spirit and passion for art. The studio, which is female-founded and led, is supported by a team of incredibly talented and creative individuals under Lena's guidance. As a native New Yorker born and raised in Brooklyn, Lena embodies the fast-paced, gritty, and wondrous nature of NYC, bringing her unique flair and problem-solving ability to every project she undertakes.
With an extensive background in the art world, Lena has built her career on empowering artists and creative professionals. Since 2008, she has worked alongside a diverse array of individuals and organizations, including visual artists, musicians, designers, galleries, curators, art advisors, and architects. Her impressive range of expertise spans producing exhibitions, organizing events, managing financial operations, and structuring business practices, all of which have contributed to her evolution as a creative leader. Each experience has woven together to create the rich tapestry of her professional life, reinforcing her commitment to artistry and entrepreneurial growth.
Education and Achievements
Lena's educational journey began at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine and Studio Arts. This prestigious institution, known for its rigorous academic programs and focus on creativity, provided Lena with a strong foundation in art and design thinking. Additionally, Lena's early education at the NYC Lab School fostered her artistic abilities and nurtured her passion for creativity and collaboration.
Throughout her career, Lena has held several significant positions in high-profile organizations, most notably as the Chief of Staff at Kickstarter, where she played a pivotal role in aligning business strategies with the creative sector. Prior to that, she served as the Executive Assistant to the CEO at the same company, where her knack for organization and foresight helped streamline operations and support innovative projects. Her work at Vito Schnabel, VMS LLC, as Managing Director and Controller & Office Manager further solidified her understanding of the intersection between management and creative pursuits.
Lena's ability to adapt and thrive in a busy, creative economy is evident in her varied experience as a Freelance Accountant, which included positions at Nyehaus and The Bruce High Quality Foundation. These roles allowed her to merge her financial expertise with her artistic passion, ensuring that projects not only came to life but did so sustainably and profitably. Additionally, her role in producing sustainability symposiums as a self-employed coordinator exemplifies her commitment to using creativity as a force for good, a belief that continues to permeate her work today.
Achievements
- Co-Founder of Name Glo: Under Lena's leadership, Name Glo has emerged as a go-to destination for neon art in NYC, transforming how people engage with light and design. The studio's offerings speak to a new generation of design enthusiasts, making a striking impact in the art community and beyond.
- Chief of Staff at Kickstarter: Lena was instrumental in strategizing and executing initiatives aimed at promoting creative projects through this globally recognized crowdfunding platform. Her contributions have greatly impacted the operational success of countless artists and creative entrepreneurs.
- Experience in Arts Management: With over a decade of diverse experience, Lena has honed her expertise in arts management, enabling her to provide support and guidance to numerous artists in business operations, financial management, and project realization.
- Event Coordination Expertise: Lena has produced and coordinated high-profile events and exhibitions, demonstrating her refined organizational skills and her passion for bringing unique artistic experiences to the public.
- Cultural Contributions: As an archivist at esteemed institutions like the New Museum of Contemporary Art and through her work as a digital archivist, Lena has contributed significantly to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of contemporary art.
- Freelance Accountant: Leveraging her financial acumen, Lena has provided crucial support to various artistic projects, ensuring that the economics of creativity are managed effectively, supporting the sustainability of the arts community.
In summary, Lena Imamura is a multi-faceted creative leader whose journey reflects a dedication to enriching the artistic landscape of New York City and beyond. With her blend of artistic vision, management expertise, and problem-solving spirit, Lena continues to inspire and create pathways for artists to explore their visions and succeed in their endeavors.
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