Why does your business support the Akron Art Museum?

Speelman Electric LLC has maintained a collaborative working relationship with the Museum over the years. Supporting it allows us to contribute not only to the acquisition and preservation of art, but also to its wide range of educational programs, community events, and the ongoing maintenance of this exceptional facility.

As someone who visits the Museum regularly, I’ve grown to appreciate the unique architectural blend of the historic 1899 building and the contemporary addition. Together, these structures create a distinctive environment that enhances the experience of art and programming housed within.

The Museum plays a vital role in making art and culture accessible to our community, something truly irreplaceable and well worth supporting.

Why is the Museum important for your employees and the community?

Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and change perspectives. Knowing the story, struggle, and vision behind a work can open new ways of thinking. I believe our employees, like others in the community, benefit from those kinds of experiences.

When I’m at the Museum, I see people from all walks of life connecting with art in personal ways. I often wonder what they’re experiencing at that moment—whether it aligns with or diverges from my own interpretation.

I also see groups of children fully engaged in hands-on programs and projects. Exposure to these experiences cultivates creativity, encourages critical thinking, and inspires individuals—young and old—to think beyond conventional boundaries. That’s an invaluable contribution to our community.

If you could borrow one work from the Museum’s collection to display in your office, which would it be?

I would choose El Anatsui’s Dzesi II. I’m drawn to its texture, movement, and the innovative use of everyday materials. It’s visually compelling and conceptually inventive, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Speelman has worked on several exhibitions at the Museum. Can you share a few insights?

One of my first projects there involved powering the Vladimir Bonačić exhibit, which included pieces from Europe. It presented some logistical challenges in acquiring the correct equipment to meet the exhibit’s needs.

Another memorable project was All Fall, which required precision and a complex setup to power and control five separate sculptures. We’ve also had the opportunity to work on pieces like Hot Spot, Reflections, White Clouds, and Eagle Wheel—each of which brought its own unique set of challenges and kept our team on their toes.

Every project has deepened our appreciation for the technical and creative collaboration involved in bringing an exhibition to life.

Describe a memorable exhibition or installation.

One of the most impactful aspects of working behind the scenes at the Museum is the opportunity to hear stories directly from curators or preparators and at times meet the artists. Those insights bring a deeper dimension to each piece.

The Falling Angel installation from the recent GLOW: Neon and Light exhibition stands out. It spoke to my creative side while also drawing on my professional occupation. The interplay of Tesla coils, pulsing fluorescents, and the industrial aesthetic made a lasting impression.

Another personal favorite was the Frameworks exhibition, which included works by Dragana Crnjak. Her husband, Alex, is a longtime Speelman Electric employee, and I’ve worked with him on numerous projects. Her piece Unfolding stood out to me for its use of space and depth, particularly how it extended onto the end of the wall.

Lastly, a permanent piece that has always resonated with me is Julian Stanczak’s It’s Not Easy Being Green. The symmetry, color radiance, and flow are captivating. I learned that Julian created the piece using more than forty colors and a taping method—despite having lost the use of one arm while in a work camp. His determination and creativity are truly inspiring.