Rune Bunn is a recent graduate of The University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Theater Design and Technology. She focuses primarily in scenic and lighting design and currently works as a carpenter and electrician at Amphibian Stage Productions. Her work includes Assistant Scenic Designer on UTA’s co-production of The Visit with Amphibian Stage, Lighting Designer for The Dallas Conservatory’s production of Seussical Jr and most recently Lighting Designer for the SheDFW Theater Festival. 

My art is an invitation to a shared experience and I put a little piece of myself into everything I create. In order to break down the barriers between the audience and the artist, I intend to form a connection that is deeply rooted in authenticity and emotional vulnerability. My artistic practice involves not only exposing my own vulnerabilities but embracing them and encouraging those I collaborate with to do the same. This idea of provoking raw emotion leads to a more profound and meaningful engagement with the art that we create.

I firmly believe that every person I work with brings a unique perspective that should not be overshadowed by the monolithic view of conformity. My intent in this individualistic approach is to highlight the strengths and voices of all those involved, ensuring that each is valued as an integral part of the whole. Our work as artists is more than just a product and should never include safely coloring within the lines. It is a collection of each of our identities and lived experiences and I will always work to respect each and every one.

Whether your work resides in the design process or the nuts and bolts of bringing those designs to life, everyone should be afforded the opportunity to work in a space that is both comfortable and safe. I am deeply committed to ensuring that no one is kept from pursuing their careers due to barriers that can and should be removed. I intend to create art that can be engaged with in a way that does not exclude anyone.

I am dedicated to elevating the voices and work of individuals from marginalized communities. I aim to create an environment where people from these diverse backgrounds can feel safe, supported and celebrated. My work is a tool to challenge the disproportionate influence of the stereotypes many have grown accustomed to. It isn’t just about checking boxes but changing the foundation of the artistic landscape we work in, the world is our canvas and we need to get used to using more than one color. 

Through each brush stroke and behind every light I turn on, these values are not just aspirations but realities embedded into the fabric of what makes me the artist that I am and will become.