Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Websites
Expertise
References
Timeline
Generic

Kristen Lodu

Toronto,ON

Summary

Creative and adaptable arts and culture professional with hands-on experience curating inclusive events, managing cultural programming, and building meaningful connections with artists and audiences. Skilled at organizing exhibitions, performances, and corporate events with care and attention to detail. Known for strong organizational skills, a collaborative approach, and a genuine passion for supporting artists and creative communities.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Guest Service Agent

The Drake Hotel
Toronto, Ontario
04.2024 - Current
  • Managed check-ins, check-outs, reservations, and guest inquiries to deliver exceptional customer service.
  • Resolved guest issues promptly and coordinated with departments for a seamless experience.
  • Handled billing, payments, and records accurately through property management systems.

Cultural Programming Coordinator

The Drake Hotel
Toronto, Ontario
10.2022 - Current
  • Curated and executed cultural events, including live performances, art exhibitions, and workshops, increasing attendance by 30%.
  • Built partnerships with local artists and organizations to diversify and expand programming.
  • Developed marketing strategies and designed graphics, boosting online engagement and ticket sales.
  • Managed logistics, budgets, and operations for multiple events, ensuring smooth execution within resources.

Artist & Curator

Freelance
Toronto, Ontario
08.2022 - Current
  • Produced commissioned paintings for clients, including portraits, landscapes, and still lifes, maintaining strong client relationships and meeting creative vision.
  • Organized and participated in solo and group exhibitions, including the Toronto Artdoor Fair, Visionary Projects, and Art City Works International in New York City.
  • Curated and managed the Workflow series, featuring over 60 artists in a two-year exhibition cycle showcasing emerging talent in solo exhibits.

Curatorial Intern

Abbozzo Gallery
Toronto, Ontario
01.2025 - 06.2025
  • Assisted in exhibition development by designing graphic collateral, managing artwork inventory, and supporting installation.
  • Contributed to curatorial planning and gallery operations to ensure smooth exhibition presentation.
  • Coordinated logistics and maintained communication with artists, vendors, and gallery staff to meet exhibition timelines.

Gallery Assistant

Arta Gallery
Toronto, Ontario
03.2022 - 06.2023
  • Maintained and updated gallery website and social media platforms to enhance online engagement.
  • Assisted in exhibition setup and takedown, ensuring smooth installation processes.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing visitor inquiries and offering exhibition details.

Model

Want Management + Sutherland Models
Toronto, Ontario
04.2018 - 03.2023
  • Collaborated closely with art directors to accurately represent brand visions across editorial, commercial, and campaign projects.
  • Modelled for brands and publications including Jordan, Nike, Nordstrom, Simons, Lululemon, S Magazine, Fashion Canada, Shoppers Drug Mart, Refinery29, Dress to Kill Magazine, Bully Boy, 119 Corbo, Vitaly, Twik, Uncle Studios, and others.

Sales & Studio Assistant

Light and Papershop
Toronto, Ontario
11.2017 - 12.2019
  • Prepared materials, set up equipment, and organized supplies to support artists.
  • Maintained studio cleanliness and organization to maximize productivity.
  • Executed logistics for exhibitions and events, including One of a Kind Show Spring and Winter.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts And Science (Honours) - Criticism & Curatorial Practice

Ocad University
Toronto
08-2025

Skills

  • Event planning & coordination
  • Graphic design
  • Collaboration & teamwork
  • Social media marketing
  • Community engagement
  • Budget management

Certification

  • Smart Serve Ontario
  • WHMIS Safety Training
  • Ontario's Food Handler Safety

Expertise

  • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Excel & Word)
  • Opera Cloud
  • Adaco
  • TripleSeat
  • WordPress
  • Artlogic

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Curatorial Intern

Abbozzo Gallery
01.2025 - 06.2025

Guest Service Agent

The Drake Hotel
04.2024 - Current

Cultural Programming Coordinator

The Drake Hotel
10.2022 - Current

Artist & Curator

Freelance
08.2022 - Current

Gallery Assistant

Arta Gallery
03.2022 - 06.2023

Model

Want Management + Sutherland Models
04.2018 - 03.2023

Sales & Studio Assistant

Light and Papershop
11.2017 - 12.2019

Bachelor of Fine Arts And Science (Honours) - Criticism & Curatorial Practice

Ocad University
Kristen Lodu