Crystal Young-Otterstrom is currently the Audience Development Manager for Utah Symphony | Utah Opera, a composer and a fan of the visual arts. Crystal started Vivace, a funkified bunch of 20/30/40 somethings (single, partnered, married) that just happen to get their groove on to classical music and opera. She also helped to form the Salty Cricket Composers Collective, a new music ensemble that performs the works of living composers who currently reside in Utah. Their second concert, Stridulation, is June 14th. 

What hangs above your mantel?

I’m a downtown-ite so no mantel. But if I had one my #1 choice would be my giant pink flamingo Audubon-print that I got framed and matted (orange matting) a few years ago. It’s about 2 feet x 5 feet. My #2 choice would be either one of my Mom’s paintings or a piece by Trent Call, Cat Palmer, or Sri Whipple because they’re my favs.

What is your favorite building in Utah?

I suppose I ought to be loyal and say Abravanel Hall because such awesome music happens there. From a purely architectural standpoint I’d say the AT&T building. Flamingos (my first great love) and art deco just go together.

What is the most memorable exhibit you’ve seen recently? 

Gaylen Hansen at the Art Center! The most memorable exhibit of my life (yes, TMI) would be an exhibit of John Singer Sargent at the National Gallery that I saw in college. I had never seen Madame X live, and I had never before been a fan of representational painting, but she blew my mind.

On the Spot

This is our chance to check in with members of Utah’s art community to see what they’ve been reading, seeing, doing.