In our ongoing Q&A series, we profile members of the McNay staff to show a behind-the-scenes look at all the people who make the McNay what it is! Today’s post features Jena Jackson, our staff photographer.

What is your role at the McNay? 
I am the staff photographer here at the museum. Every day I spend here is different! I have the privilege to work with every department at the Museum so I get to be involved in a lot of different events and programs. Some days that includes VIP and member receptions for gallery openings, some days it’s a Second Thursday or a lecture by a celebrity like Mondo Guerra, and other days it’s spending my morning with the cutest toddlers in San Antonio at Toddler Art Play! Then, of course, there is a lot of editing and post work with the photos. I also enjoy the quiet moments when it’s just me and the artwork in the galleries when the Museum is closed and I’m photographing installations. Having a background in art myself I can greatly appreciate my surroundings!

What do you like to do outside of work? Where do you like to go in San Antonio?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog Tex. We are an Air Force family so we enjoy exploring the city and surrounding areas and finding fun new places to eat, shop, etc. We love sports and have adopted the Spurs as one of our favorite teams! Though being from South Bend, Indiana, the rest of our teams are in the Midwest.

What has been your favorite exhibition at the McNay so far and why?
This is a tough one but I would have to say my favorite exhibition thus far was Behind the Screen: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. When I found out that the pieces on display were actual puppets and sets used in the movie, I felt like I was in the presence of movie stars!

What is one thing about the McNay you wish everyone knew? 
I think I would want everyone to know how special the staff is here. Everyone here is so passionate about making the McNay what it is and making it a fun and memorable place for all of you who choose to spend your time here!

I would also like everyone to know that we create galleries of our photos and videos our multimedia staff works hard on that you can access from our website. If you have seen one of us out and about, chances are you might be in some pictures or videos that are posted!