Sara Lee Burd

Art consultant, archivist, researcher

Nashville Metropolitan Area

About

With a passion for turning possibilities into reality, I am dedicated to cultivating community and inspiring engagement. Currently an art consultant, I help clients acquire art that resonates with them. From connecting through contributions to esteemed arts magazines to active participation in visual art boards, I consistently cultivate meaningful connections within the artistic community. I am passionate about this field and eager to continue contributing, leveraging my expertise and enthusiasm to enhance the vibrant landscape of visual arts. I invite you to connect with me if you are interested in purchasing art or exploring opportunities for collaboration.

Experience

  • Art Consultant at Art Consultant Nashville
    Apr 2019 - Present · 7 yrs 3 mos

  • Graduate Student at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
    Aug 2022 - Dec 2025 · 3 yrs 5 mos

  • Vanderbilt University (6 yrs 2 mos)
    • Project Archivist
      Oct 2021 - Sep 2023 · 2 yrs

      Processed a portion of Senator Lamar Alexander’s political papers. The project consisted of arranging, describing, and adding records to ArchivesSpace. It is Vanderbilt’s largest collection with 1000 linear feet of papers, AV, and memorabilia. Born-digital materials are also part of the collection. In addition to archival duties, I have assumed leadership roles such as being a member of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility committee. I’m also part of the leadership of Vanderbilt’s Latinx Employee Affinity Group.

    • Project Archivist
      Dec 2020 - Dec 2021 · 1 yr 1 mo

      I processed the Delia Zapata Olivella Papers at the Vanderbilt University’s Special Collections and University Archives. The collection included paper, artifacts, video, and photographs associated with the Afro-Colombian cultural figure, Zapata Olivella. I created a digital finding aid for the collection.

    • Adjunct Professor
      Aug 2017 - Dec 2020 · 3 yrs 5 mos

      Professor for the Human Organization and Development Capstone course. I facilitated students' understanding and use of the Design Thinking/Human Centered Design research models. As a professor I guided student investigations using these methodologies. My workshop-based classes introduced the students to topics around career planning, workplace problem solving, and work/life balance.

  • Art Consultant and Writer at Self-employed
    Feb 2016 - Dec 2021 · 5 yrs 11 mos

    Art Consultant Nashville is an umbrella under which I connected ideas, projects, and community. My mission was to bridge audiences with the visual arts by writing, representing artists, educating, art consulting, and curating.

  • Executive Editor at Nashville Arts Magazine
    Jul 2011 - Jan 2017 · 5 yrs 7 mos

    I oversaw all activities related to producing the monthly publication. I worked directly with publisher to select stories and assign writers and photographers. I art directed photography on location and worked with a graphic designer to finalize layouts. I participated in community art events to increase engagement with and appreciation of art. I juried a series of exhibitions to appear at the Customs House Museum's Harvill Gallery, along with shows at Centennial Art Center and Tennessee Art League. As the online editor, I promoted the publication's stories and developed a group of bloggers to produce exclusive online content for the Nashville arts Magazine website and weekly newsletter. I designed social media strategies and lead the team in implementing these marketing and engagement building plans.