Kaki Hopkins
Photo by Danny Fulgencio
Preston Hollow’s Kaki Hopkins is a jewel of a volunteer at one of Dallas’ crowning glories: the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Hopkins banked on her connections, organizational skills and artistic background for the second year to chair Artscape Fair April 28-29. A juried fine art and craft show and sale, the event will bring together nearly 100 artists from around the country. Hopkins orchestrated 60 people to serve on the event’s board.
How did you start volunteering at the Arboretum?
It’s the most peaceful place. (Arboretum President) Mary Brineger and I had worked together before on the board of the Dallas Opera and I loved working with her then. When the Dale Chihuly exhibit came to town in 2012, I was asked to do the gala.
What is your role now?
Mary asked me if I would reimagine Artscape and so I did. It was a blast. I had a huge committee. We started adding some features that brought more people to see it. I changed the whole look of it. I got Salvador Impastato to come up with a new layout that people could follow easily and would give the artists more visibility. These are very high-end artists.
What is your background?
I have a master’s in theater. I was at the Dallas Theater Center as an actor. I was an instructor and director of the graduate program. I have a dance and a sales background.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I was studying mathematics as well as theater, and I was having trouble figuring out which path to take. I would say to myself, “You’re doing well with that choice.” I would also say cherish every new friend that you meet.
Tell me about your family.
I have two sons. Brett is 42 and Scott is 40. My husband, Shelton, has been the most incredible person. He’s a physician. We share a lot of interests. He has supported me on everything that I have done. I have supported him on everything that he has done at his hospital and with the Dallas County Medical Society. We both enjoy doing volunteer work. He is retired and he goes to the Vickery Meadow Learning Center to teach through Literacy Achieves. He’s on the board.
How do you like Preston Hollow?
It’s a wonderful area. I’ve been on the board of the Royal Northaven Neighborhood Association. I started out doing communications until things went to digital. I like the larger lots, and I love the various architecture styles, the trees and the wonderful people.
