We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Knehans and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
As a designer my success is often judged by what is seen on a stage or in the final cut of a film and is credited to my individual efforts, but success is a process that can’t be defined by a single event or accomplishment. Rather, it is many smaller moments crafted by a community of people that come together to create a positive outcome. The most important factor behind my success is the team of people that support me in executing a design and all of the other collaborators who are involved in the practice of storytelling. When I succeed it is because the people around me are also succeeding, and it the care that we give to and take from our community that lifts us all up.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a visual storyteller who is interested in art that can connect with people on a personal level, that exposes our humanity and allows space for growth and healing. I enjoy using discarded materials in ways that fill them with new life and gives an object or environment multiple meanings.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love checking out all of the art LA has to offer. Wether it’s one of the more well known museums like the Broad in DTLA, or a smaller venue like the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery in Hollywood, there’s always a new exhibit to see somewhere. Dinner plans would probably include a stop at Leo’s Tacos Truck followed by a show produced by one of LAs over 200 small theatre companies. I also highly recommend one of the many hiking trails or picnic areas in Griffith Park if you’re looking for some out door fun.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people and groups that deserve recognition and love for helping me get to where I am today. In honor of his recent passing, I’m going to shoutout my hometown hero, Jack Terricloth, and the band of punk rock, trouble makers known as the World/Inferno Friendship Society, for which he was the lead instigator. Their shows were legendary and their music was responsible for forming my understanding of community and what true artistry means.

Website: www.amandaknehans.com

Instagram: @aknehans

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7127095/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.