Director of the City’s Department of Arts and Culture
By Lainey Berkus | Photography by David Teran
I was inspired today. I met a truly beautiful woman who knows how to balance being confident, energetic, creative, and caring at work and play. How does she do it all? She carries “love” in her black leather bag, which includes a sentimental compass, journal, and Buckeye. These love essentials help her to stay grounded no matter what comes her way.
Note to myself: today, go buy a compass and journal and find a Buckeye.
Meet Krystal Jones. This dynamo has been supporting and advancing San Antonio’s arts and culture community for more than a decade. As Director of the City’s Department of Arts and Culture, she oversees a $7 million grant program, $15.7 million public art program, the San Antonio Film Commission and two City owned galleries as well as numerous cultural programming for our community.
“My focus is fostering a sense of partnership between our department and the community we serve. Not only do I want to connect artists and arts organizations to opportunities that invest in and elevate their work, but I am equally passionate about arts being accessible to all. The best part, I am fortunate to work with a team of 23 who share the same drive to accomplish these things,” says this game changer.
Many of us have enjoyed incredible public artworks installed by the department all around town, like the recent El Papalote (The Kite) and El Trompo (The Top) by artist Joe Villarreal. Or maybe you’ve visited the City’s art galleries or attended a department-supported arts program. You’ll also want to watch the upcoming film Say a Little Prayer starring Luis Fonsi, which features San Antonio as a main character. For more information on events, visit SanAntonio.gov/Arts.
You may have also spotted Krystal riding to work or events around town. Her blonde locks flow as she rides her Indian Scout motorcycle, often wearing black riding boots, jeans, a leather jacket, and a treasured bracelet on her left wrist given to her by grandfather. Her black leather bag is always hanging off her shoulder, too.
Q What is inside your bag?
A “My seven-year-old black leather motorcycle bag has traveled many miles and is my bag of choice even when I’m not riding. I carry different items depending on where I’m headed — a community meeting, arts event, or night out. A main staple is a compass. My family loves compasses, as they remind us to “Stay the Course” and keep true to our values: Do the right thing even if it’s hard. Treat every person with respect and dignity. Work hard. I have many, but my favorite is a compass necklace by my parents when I graduated with my master’s degree from Syracuse University that has “Stay the Course” engraved on the back.
Another item is my journal. I’ve journaled since second grade and have over 30 (and counting) filled with reflections, ideas, and dreams. They document my life and help me practice gratitude, process and learn from challenges, and connect with my inner self.
I also keep an Ohio (my home state) Buckeye and a Texas Mescal Bean from the Mountain Laurel Tree. These items are my love charms. My fiancé, Josh, is a member of the Tāp Pīlam Coahuiltecan Nation and makes Mescal Bean jewelry. His first gift to me was a necklace of Buckeyes, representing where I’m from, and Mescal Beans, representing where I’m headed.
There are times when I carry a larger bookbag with working essentials like a laptop, files, snacks, wires, keys, lipstick — but always – my love items are in the mix. And, because I must keep it close, my iPhone lives in my jacket pocket.”
Krystal’s Motorcycle Bag Tips:
1. Find lightweight bags, better shoulders while riding.
2. No long straps, best to keep things away from the wheels.
3. Your bag needs to be sturdy due to weather like wind and rain.
Notes: DOT certified helmets are key. Bluetooth speakers can be added to listen to music and take phone calls. Motorcycles aren’t for everyone. Don’t ride a motorcycle without a license, which requires a two-day safety course. And even then, practice, practice, and practice in a parking lot before hitting the open road.
