The director of integrated marketing in the Office of Communications and Public Affairs is an avid lover of art, music, and theatre who oversees all aspects of UMB’s art and literary journal, “1807.”
As part of its 10th anniversary celebration, the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s (UMB) Council for the Arts & Culture is featuring Q&As with its members on The Elm. This week, we shine the spotlight on Dana Rampolla.
What is your name/school/job description at UMB?
Dana Rampolla, Director of Integrated Marketing, Office of Communications and Public Affairs
What is your favorite arts council initiative/event?
As director of integrated marketing in the Office of Communications and Public Affairs at UMB, I had the unique opportunity to work with the Council for Arts & Culture to bring the concept of a UMB art journal to life seven years ago. As managing editor and creative director of 1807: An Art & Literary Journal, I lead the vision and execution of our annual publication that celebrates the creative spirit of our University community. From concept to completion, I oversee all aspects of the journal — curating submissions of visual art, photography, poetry, and varied art from students, faculty, staff, community neighbors in Southwest Baltimore, colleagues at the University of Maryland Medical Center, and UMB alumni.
My role involves collaborating with contributors and reviewers, directing the visual design and layout, and ensuring that each issue reflects both artistic excellence and the diverse voices that define UMB. I also manage the journal’s production timeline, print logistics, and promotional strategies, including launching companion events and exhibits that bring the work to life for a broader audience.
In addition to the printed journal, artwork from the first four issues of 1807 has been transformed into exterior vinyl art galleries on the UMB campus — creating accessible, open-air showcases that bring creativity into the public space. These installations have become a vibrant part of the campus landscape, and more gallery spaces will continue to sprout up from more recent issues that have been released, expanding the reach and impact of the journal well beyond its pages.
When talking about 1807, I often say that it is “more than a publication,” it’s also a platform for expression, connection, and inspiration for UMB partners from all walks of life. I take great pride in shaping a space where creativity is not only welcomed, but also celebrated. Art invites reflection, sparks dialogue, and builds connection across disciplines, backgrounds, and experiences. Whether through an Environmental Services employee’s painting, a student’s poem, a neighbor’s glass sculpture, or a powerful piece of photography taken by a professor, each piece of art reminds us of our shared humanity and our capacity to imagine a better, more compassionate world.
What is your favorite art medium? Who are some of your personal artistic influences or role models?
I can’t say I have a single favorite medium — my love for art is wide and deeply rooted. Music has always been a powerful force in my life, especially the blues. I played clarinet and alto and tenor saxophones as a student, and my husband of 39 years is an avid music lover. Together, we raised our five children in a home where a variety of music was a constant companion — so much so that one of them is now a professional musician, one sang opera, one played in an indie pop band in college, and one dabbles in electric dance music deejaying.
At the same time, I’ve always been deeply moved by photographic portraiture and great paintings. As the owner of a boutique portrait photography business for most of my adult life, I found inspiration in the works of modern-day family and baby portraitists, as well as painters such as da Vinci, Raphael, and Bouguereau. I vividly remember being brought to tears by a painting I saw in a Houston museum more than 30 years ago. That emotional response became my family portraiture “creative compass” — striving to produce photographic portraits that would “Make the art in your home reflect the beauty in your heart.” — my business tagline.
My appreciation for art continues to evolve. I’m drawn to beautiful pottery, film soundtracks, resin paintings, and musical theater. I have a real love for interior decorating and architecture. I find joy in thoughtfully designed spaces — how colors, textures, lighting, and structure work together to create environments that are both functional and beautiful. Whether it’s curating a room or admiring a well-designed building, I see these as art forms that shape how we live and feel every day.
Lately, I’ve been enjoying creative time by dabbling in watercolor painting and crafting artistic dishes from large seashells. I truly believe that everyone has the capacity to either create art or find joy in experiencing it — in all its many forms. Whether you’re making art or simply appreciating it, art has a way of connecting us to beauty, meaning, and each other.
Is there an art organization, exhibition, performance, etc., in the area that you would recommend others to attend?
One of my favorite creative escapes is supporting local theater, whether it’s at the Milburn Stone Theatre, Dundalk Community Theatre, Towson University productions, or community groups like the Glyndon Area Players (GAP), where our family was deeply involved for over 10 years. During that time, while our daughter performed in numerous shows, we enthusiastically supported the volunteer theater community by building sets, running spotlights, and even occasionally stepping on stage ourselves.
There’s something truly magical about live theater — the energy, the emotion, and the way a story unfolds right in front of you.
The Milburn Stone Theatre, in particular, offers professional-quality productions in a welcoming, intimate setting where every seat feels like the best seat in the house. I’ve seen standout performances there like American Idiot and A Few Good Men — each one powerful, thought-provoking, and expertly staged.
What I love most about community theater is the variety. Whether it’s a classic musical, a dramatic play, or a contemporary piece, the performances are always heartfelt and beautifully produced. The cast and crew pour so much passion into every detail, and you can truly feel the connection between the performers and the audience.
I’m also always fascinated by the sets — what people are able to create on stage is just remarkable. From the simplicity of the black box stage in Pippin at McDonogh High School several years ago, to the ambitious production of Les Misérables by GAP, the creativity and craftsmanship never cease to amaze me.
One of my favorite memories is from that GAP production of Les Mis, in which our daughter performed. The set was so stunningly well-executed, it rivaled the professional version we had seen at the Hippodrome in Baltimore. We even used real explosives for an enormous dramatic effect that was amazing and impactful.
So if you haven’t experienced local theater, add it to your to-do list, not just for the entertainment, but also for the sense of community it creates. It’s a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to experience the power of storytelling. You’ll laugh, you might cry, and you’ll definitely walk away inspired.