About Chelsea
Chelsea Banks is an interdisciplinary artist and civic leader. An accomplished cellist, Chelsea facilitates music experiences that invite the audience to connect on a deeper level, performing original compositions, contemporary works, and classical masterpieces.
A fierce advocate for her community, Chelsea serves on the MAPS 4 Citizens Advisory Board, the Vision Zero Advisory Board, the Asian District Cultural Association Advisory Board, and is a founding member of the Friends of Uptown Foundation. Chelsea played a pivotal role in establishing the Uptown 23rd Business Improvement District.
Chelsea champions ethical and regenerative practices, transparent communication, and maximizing capacity while minimizing waste. Chelsea is passionate about elevating her community through artistic expression, grassroots leadership, and support of the local economy.
Education
University of Oklahoma - BA in Journalism; Major in Advertising, Minor in General Business
Competencies
Conflict Management, Creating Systems & Processes, Interpersonal Savvy, Managing Vision & Values, Presentation Skills, Training & Onboarding, Strategic Agility
Experience
Marketing & Communications – Oklahoma Youth Orchestras
April 2024 – Present
Developing and executing marketing strategies across various channels, managing communication to membership, and ensuring consistent branding across platforms and materials.
Partner, Brand Strategy – Motif.
January 2018 – Present
Works with independently-owned shops and commercial districts by building capacity through sound structure and processes. Contract work includes interim management, strategy and brand development. See Chelsea’s design portfolio at www.motif-creative.com
Cofounder, Design – Workflow
September 2018 – Closed the company in 2024
Designed and maintained coworking / community space that fostered individual integrity, connection to others and good work.
Store Director & District Training Expert – Madewell
August 2015 – February 2018
Created innovative solutions to drive business and results while maintaining a strong sense of customer focus. Fostered collaboration through specific and appropriate feedback. Worked with teams across four states to cultivate the training expectations of the brand.
Trainer – Apple
July 2011 – August 2015
Communicated effectively with varying types of individuals, allowing for strong relationships among the team. Utilized refined decision making skills and interpersonal savvy to delegate and prioritize tasks.
Extra Curricular
Stepmom, Partner, Cellist, Hobby Photographer, Garden Enthusiast
Current Board Service
Board Member, Representing Ward 2 – MAPS4 Citizens Advisory Board
Board Member – Vision Zero Advisory Board
Advisory Board Member – Asian District Cultural Association 501(c)3
Founding Member – Friends of Uptown Foundation 501(c)3
Past Board Service and Non Profit Work
Board Member representing Ward 2 – Citizens Committee for Community Development, 2020-2023
President of the Board – Uptown 23rd District Association, 2019-2024
Interim Executive Director – Uptown 23rd District Association, May 2018 – December 2018
Interim Executive Director – Plaza District Association, January 2018 – March 2018
Press
Performances & Venues
Jan 30, 2025 cello trio for King Lear, Berg Theatre
Oct 5, 2024 – section cellist with Vienna Light Orchestra, Mabee Center
Sep 28, 2024 – solo cello, Radke Fine Arts Theatre
May 17, 2024 cello/ piano duo, Firehouse Art Center
Apr 11, 2024 – section cellist with OCU Symphony, OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Theatre
Mar 29, 2024 – solo cello, Workflow Commons
Jan 12, 2024 – with The Stringsmen quartet at Tower Theatre
Aug 8, 2023 solo cello, OU Physics and Astronomy
July 29, 2023 solo cello, Yellow Dog
July 16, 2023 solo cello, The Copley morning rush
Apr 7, 2023 – solo cello, This Land Yoga open house first Friday
April 2, 2023 solo cello, Yellow Dog
