Karla Montalban-Lucas
B.A. in Art History, Minor in Legal Studies
Hometown: Gastonia, N.C.
Graduation Year: 2027
Tell us a little about yourself! How did you first get interested in art?
I have always been very fond of the arts. As a little girl, I had a stack of fashion sketchbooks and a bunch of fabric I cut up and turned into garments for my dolls. Later, I became interested in architecture and interior design and what I could do with them. I developed a love for movies and the behind-the-scenes work it takes to make them, especially production design. Across all my interests, I loved taking art classes, learning about different art movements and artists from around the world, and doing studio work. In art history, beyond knowing the titles of works and their artists, I loved learning the context around them, the barriers they broke, the movements they changed, the scandals they caused, and their significance over time.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
If there is one thing I have learned in my art history classes, it is that the legal side of things can be messy and complicated. I am not yet sure which route I want to take, but I would love to work in intellectual property, art crimes, or cultural heritage.
What is your favorite thing about UNC Charlotte?
I love how collaborative our art history department is. I like that we always have class discussions, and everyone shares their ideas and opinions; it helps you learn beyond the text and lectures.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts/design community?
I am a part of the Society of Art Historians, and I sit as its social media manager. Aside from art organizations I am also a member of other organizations within my legal studies minor. I am a member of the Charlotte Mock Trial Team and a writer on the Undergraduate Law Review. I also hold a fellowship outside of school with Carolina Migrant Network.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
In my free time I love going out with friends, going to the movies, baking, working out, or just hanging out at home with my dog.