About me

“Embracing our identity as both movers and creatives, we can celebrate the unique gifts that define us as humans.” Words, spoken by Kristin LaRoy, that are the basis for her work as an artist and multidisciplinary arts integration educator. While LaRoy enjoys creating her own works of art in the performing and fine arts realm, she is also passionate about helping others reach their own creative potential and experiencing the arts for themselves.

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With a career spanning over 18 years in the realm of dance, LaRoy’s journey commenced with her academic and artistic pursuits at the University of South Carolina, culminating in a degree in Business Information Systems and Dance. Throughout this tenure, LaRoy performed across the southern and midwestern regions of the United States. Simultaneously, she held the position of resident instructor at the Center for Dance Education in Lexington, SC, and Columbia, SC.

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Upon her return to Greenville, SC, LaRoy undertook developing, directing, and nurturing the dance programs at three branches of the YMCA of Greenville, serving students in Taylors, Travelers Rest, and downtown Greenville, SC. Her multifaceted talents extend beyond the realm of dance and have allowed her to teach various forms of fine crafts for the past nine years. Her role as a printmaker and arts educator has taken her on a journey through various festivals, schools, and educational programs, like Roper Mountain Science Center, where she has helped others experience the creative process and learn new artisan techniques.

 

In the year 2015, LaRoy founded the Travelers Rest Makers Company—a haven where individuals of all ages are not only inspired by fine crafts but also instructed in the techniques that underpin these artistic endeavors. Beyond adult and student arts programming, LaRoy pioneered a Homeschool and Mini Makers program with a multidisciplinary arts integration approach, an effective conduit for imparting academic lessons using multiple art forms. Her dedication to private education has also spread into the public school system. LaRoy has become a SmartARTS certified teaching artist and works with teachers throughout Greenville County to create unique lessons that integrate dance and fine craft with their curriculum.

 

In recent years, LaRoy’s endeavors have garnered her several notable accolades, including the Carrie and Skip Gordon Emerging Teaching Artist Award and the title of Travelers Rest Business Person of the Year. Furthermore, her programming has received acclaim as a family favorite, earning recognition through Kidding Around Greenville’s KABOOM awards, where it was distinguished as the best Art Program and secured a finalist spot in the Best Baby/Toddler program category.

 

In addition to her career achievements, LaRoy takes great pride in her role as a devoted wife, mother of two and dog mom of one. She finds joy in embarking on adventures and embracing the great outdoors. Her adventurous spirit has led her to explore various corners of the United States and traverse the landscapes of seven different countries.