Art Buddy Spotlight: Doug Knutson, Photographer

Doug Knutson is the owner of Knutson Photography, LLC, and he has generously donated his time and talents as an Art Buddies photographer since we opened our creative doors 20 years ago. Every season, Doug is there to capture memories of children building dreams during Art Buddies creating sessions, and takes special care during our mentor and mentee photo shoots on the last day of each program. He attends all of our volunteer networking and fundraising events, contributing to the energy and excitement as an active attendee and event photographer. You'll see many of Doug's photos on our website, Facebook page, and Buddy Blog. It is truly the creative spirit of people like Doug who have helped Art Buddies last and make such a meaningful difference in the lives of kids and mentors for 20 years. (Thanks Doug!)

How would you describe Art Buddies to someone who has never heard of the program?
Art Buddies is a one-on-one creative mentoring program.

What has been your most memorable experience as an Art Buddies volunteer?
A student asked to take my picture. A short time later a magazine I photographed an assignment for asked for a portrait of me for their contributor’s page, so I cropped the photo he took and submitted it to the magazine. He got credit in the magazine and I made sure he received a copy of the magazine. He was an Art Buddy the next session and took more pictures with my camera of the other participants.

Why did you decide to become active with Art Buddies?
As a way to give back to the community.

What advice would you give to rookie Art Buddies?
Just jump in and be yourself!

Have you gained new friendships or expanded your network with adult Art Buddies during the program?
I have gained many new friendships and clients. I recently worked with Art Buddies volunteer and Advisory Board member Gerry Yumul on a project for the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation.


Art Buddies accepts mentor applications every fall and spring. Learn how you can volunteer with Art Buddies at http://www.artbuddies.org/volunteer/.