Staff Spotlight: Seespriya Jakowlew-Dahlhaus
Each month, we highlight one of the incredible staff that makes the magic happen here at Austin Creative Reuse. This month, it’s Communications Coordinator, Seespriya Jakowlew-Dahlhaus (she/her)!
Seespriya (or ‘CC’) initially joined the ACR family as a Volunteer Specialist in the fall of 2024, and has been such a fantastic addition to our team. Her vibrant personality and creative spirit match her killer, rainbow studded style. She’s built so many meaningful connections working with our volunteer community, which we know will show up throughout her storytelling in this new role. She consistently brings such a positive and energetic approach to all she does and we're so fortunate to have her!
Keep reading to find out more about her journey to finding ACR, and to see all of the beautiful works of art she creates!
How did you find Austin Creative Reuse?
I was part of the creative reuse community in Boston before moving to Austin last year, and I sought a similar community to be part of in my new city. ACR was recommended to me by folks I knew from the Austin fiber arts community, so I checked out the website while looking for new career opportunities. Luckily, there was an opening for a Reuse Specialist in the Volunteer Department, and I leapt at the chance to get involved with ACR in that capacity.
What’s your favorite part about working at ACR?
I have loved working with the volunteers and am constantly inspired by their enthusiasm and love for ACR. I also love seeing the huge variety of materials that are donated and all of the amazing things that have been creatively reused by our community. It’s really lovely to work for an organization that values creativity, sustainability and inclusivity.
How’d you end up as the Communications Coordinator at ACR?
I’ve been working as a graphic designer for nearly a decade, so when the Communications Coordinator role became available I jumped at the chance to combine my experience with communications with my passion for creative reuse. I’ve only just transitioned into my new role but I’m very excited to put my knowledge and experience to work for the benefit of the organization.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve found donated to ACR?
I found this gorgeous hand-stitched dresden plate quilt with scalloped edges and brought it to a local sewist who transformed it into a jacket for me to wear! It’s such a special piece and I feel lucky to get to wear someone’s beautiful artistry while keeping warm at the same time!
Are you an artist, crafter, or maker? What mediums do you work with? What kinds of arts and crafts do you like to do?
In addition to my graphic design work, I’m a fiber artist specializing in weaving, though I dabble in other mediums including embroidery, fabric collage and polymer clay. My main inspirations are color and texture, and as a result, my creations are all very colorful and textural! Recently, I’ve been really inspired by buttons and other sewing embellishments and finding ways to add them to my woven wall hangings and clothing. My favorite piece from last year was a denim skirt that I decorated with a rainbow of buttons.
What do you do when you’re not working at ACR/what other hobbies do you have?
My main hobby is weaving but I enjoy reading as well (mostly historical non-fiction), in addition to traveling and exploring museums. I also love trying new foods and restaurants, of which there is a huge variety here in Austin!
Do you have any children or pets?
I do not, though I’m a cat person and hope to adopt one or more cats someday.
Are you from Austin? And if not, where are you from?
I was born and raised in New Jersey but have spent most of my adult years in Boston, with a short stint in California and France. Having recently moved to Austin, I’m really enjoying getting to know the city and its unique culture. So far, I’ve found the community to be incredibly welcoming and friendly. I also really love the food and brewery scene!
