So I Had My First Art Show at LAIKA… and It Was Magic

Let me start by saying: I love my job at LAIKA. I’m the Director of Admin People Services, which means I’m usually dealing with humans, policies, and studio operations — not hanging art on walls.

But LAIKA has this amazing thing called Art in the Canteen, where anyone in the studio can apply to show their art. Animators, accountants, HR directors — everyone. If you get picked, you choose a date for the next year and get a two‑week show.

I picked June, because Pride month + my neon queer pop‑art = destiny.

Cut to me, months later, panicking about showing my work in front of actual professional artists. I love my art, but still — imposter syndrome is real.

I planned the layout like a heist. My wife suggested a checkerboard pattern, and suddenly everything made sense. It looked intentional, graphic, and very “Crystal Creates Magic.”

Installation day was… nerve wracking.

The hanging hardware was moody.

The spacing was unforgiving.

I questioned every life choice that led me to that moment.

But Ty saved the day. Truly. If there were an award for “Best Human With a Level,” he’d win.

When we finally stepped back, it looked incredible.

And the feedback?

People I didn’t even know hunted me down to tell me they loved it. I made online sales. I made an in‑person sale. I nearly cried.

LAIKA also pairs you with the marketing photographer to get professional shots of your show, which is honestly the nicest thing ever for a first‑time exhibitor.

The whole experience was validating, energizing, and honestly a huge confidence boost. It made me want to keep creating, keep experimenting, and keep showing up as the neon‑loving, pop‑art‑obsessed artist I’ve always been.