About
Natalie Pontikes is an emerging professional with a strong foundation in communications, environmental studies, music performance and business, and digital media. She graduated from St. Lawrence University with a Bachelor's of the Arts in Environmental Studies and English and later earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Business from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. With experience in social media coordination, artist relations, and content creation, Natalie is skilled in crafting engaging digital strategies and fostering connections within a broad range of sectors. Her background includes internships and hands-on projects that reflect her dedication to environmental preservation, sustainability, the arts, and community engagement.
Jamie Powell, ID
"Natalie displayed a sincere dedication to our mission and brought a positive energy to our small and highly collaborative team. Not only was she incredibly skilled at the photography and writing campaigns initially assigned to her, but she was additionally asked to assist staff and her fellow interns with a wide array of projects—from field work to assisting with events—thanks to her ability to think on her feet and integrate into any team. Natalie’s professionalism and intelligence stood out in each communication and interaction, both internally and with the local community and partners."
Kamberly Allison, ID
"Just wanted to give you a quick shout out for doing such an awesome job with photos when you were here. I'm currently preparing a presentation for a watershed council on the history of the internship program and how it has progressed, and your pictures have been extremely helpful. Past year pictures of interns don't often show them in the field doing their individual projects and so I've relied heavily on the photos you've taken. Plus they're just incredibly good quality, so I just wanted to thank you for a job well done!"
Liesl Doty, NY
"Natalie's interpersonal communication skills are exceptional. She is adept at both written and verbal communication, enabling her to interact effectively with colleagues, professionals, students, and audience members. Her collaborative spirit and problem-solving abilities have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and instructors alike. Natalie is not only a team player but also a natural leader who can inspire and motivate those around her. She is the kind of person who sets the tone in the room – always to the benefit of everyone there."
Kevin Begemann, HI
"Natalie was a joy to have on the farm. She took initiative and went the extra mile without being asked. She bought into our vision and helped us spread aloha. She was always in good spirits and always ready to lend a hand. She always had a smile on her face and a quick laugh, engaging with customers and the community alike. She has a standing invitation to return whenever she likes."
Story Telling is My Passion
I'm Natalie Pontikes, a visual storyteller with a passion for capturing the world through a creative lens. With a background in Music Business from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and English and Environmental Studies at St. Lawrence University, I've developed a unique perspective that blends artistry with a deep appreciation for the natural world.
My experience spans across content creation, photography, and strategic communications, where I've honed my skills in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Whether it's through the lens of a DSLR camera, a paintbrush, or the written word, my work aims to spark curiosity, inspire engagement, and build a narrative.
I specialize in creating multimedia assets that tell a story—whether it's capturing the vibrant energy of a live performance, the serene beauty of nature, or the intricate details of everyday life. My approach is rooted in the belief that every story worth telling possesses a visual that symbolizes it, and my goal is to bring those stories to life in a way that is both authentic and impactful.
Throughout my journey, I've had the privilege of working on projects that range from personal artistic endeavors to professional publications. Each project is an opportunity for me to explore new techniques and continue growing as an artist. My goal is to benefit the organization or individual I am working with while diversifying my own portfolio and collective work.
Thank you for visiting my website and portfolio. I hope my work and my values resonate with you, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on future projects.
Education
2016-2020
Bachelors of Environmental Studies and English
St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY
I obtained a bachelors degree in English and Environmental Studies with a minor in Outdoor Studies in 2020. Hailing from Chicago, IL originally, my education at St. Lawrence was transformative and eye opening. I developed a deep love for my surroundings in the rural North Country of NY while studying and writing on the ecology, history, and community that the region has to offer. I was a guide for the Outdoor Program, specializing in rock climbing, a member of various music ensembles and groups on campus, and a member of the Java Barn student-run music venue.
I dove deep into exploring local agriculture and culture, interning at the TAUNY (Traditional Arts in Upstate New York) center in Canton, NY and dairy farm North Country Creamery in Keeseville, NY. I completed the St. Lawrence Adirondack Semester, which enables students to study nature and human relationships with nature through academic classes enriched by life in an off-the-grid yurt village in the heart of the Adirondacks. The goals of the program are to foster a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the natural world, to create a vibrant living and learning community at the yurt village, and to cultivate a strong connection to the Adirondack region.
2022-2024
Bachelors of Music in Music Business
Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, Potsdam, NY
I returned to school in 2022 to pursue my passion for music performance in violin under the study of Professor Liesl Doty. Despite not having classical training or knowledge of reading music prior to my enrollment, I was able to flourish at Crane due to the support of my professors and peers. I excelled in my classes, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and performed a successful 30 minute degree-satisfying recital in violin.
I was a member of the Crane Symphony Orchestra and an active member of the music business program in which I completed an internship practicum. I completed an out of state capstone internship in social media with Rhonda and Company, a boutique entertainment consulting group in Brentwood, TN, during the summer of 2024.
My Own
Story
Get to Know Me
My education and work experiences are quite unique; I have had the privilege of pursuing my educational and creative passions at the higher education level. My varied work and education experiences around the country have shaped me into an emerging professional with a very unique and genuine skill set. I find inspiration and art in my day-to-day life, curating images of my own meals, apparel, and routine that reflect the beauty I find in my given environment for my personal social media pages.
Music is a significant part of who I am. I love attending local music performances, whether it's a university sanctioned performance or a local band playing at a restaurant. My experience running an on-campus music venue with my peers and housemates at St. Lawrence University sparked a life-long passion for music business, and my personal endeavors with instrumentation have flourished thanks to personal study and my involvement in various ensembles. Playing the violin and singing are my favorite ways to express myself artistically, and they allow me to connect with others on a deeper level. I regularly post youtube videos of my music in addition to practice updates on my art-specific instagram account.
When I'm not immersed in my creative projects, you can find me exploring the world around me in a variety of ways. I have a deep love for cooking, especially when it comes to creating meals with locally sourced ingredients. There's something incredibly rewarding about knowing where your food comes from and crafting delicious dishes that celebrate the flavors of the season. I am passionate about supporting local agriculture.
Staying active is also a big part of my life. I enjoy running, hiking, and spending time outdoors, drawing inspiration from the landscapes that surround me. Whether it's a challenging trail or a peaceful park, being in nature fuels my creativity and keeps me grounded. I’m also passionate about sports science and nutrition, which ties into my love for fitness and going to the gym.
When I am completing work and projects, you’ll likely find me at a coffee shop typing away while I indulge in a few too many cappuccinos. I love supporting local restaurants with friends and the sense of community these places offer.
I’m always on the lookout for fresh inspiration, whether it’s through a new hobby, a different perspective, or simply taking in the beauty of my surroundings. Life is full of opportunities to grow and learn, and I strive to make the most of every moment.
View Gallery
I have a sincere passion for finding inspiration in day to day life. I love producing photographs that help tell a story. View my more complete body of work on my portfolio page.
My Projects
Showcasing Talent and Skill
Photography
Capturing Moments for Personal and Commercial Use
My photography work focuses on capturing emotions and telling stories through visual imagery. Each photograph is a piece of art that conveys a narrative, inviting viewers to delve into the story behind the lens.
I specialize in creating visually striking images that tell a story, whether through portraiture, landscape, or event photography. With a deep appreciation for natural light and composition, I aim to inspire viewers to engage with my media and learn more about what I am promoting.
Artwork
Creative Expressions
My art pieces capture what is inspiring me at the moment. I paint photographically, utilizing my own original photographs as references. I have completed commissioned work and work for university-level painting courses.
Social Media Management
Crafting Digital Narratives
I craft engaging and impactful content that resonates with diverse audiences. My approach combines creativity with strategic insights, ensuring that every post, campaign, and interaction aligns with brand values and goals. I enjoy building strong online communities, driving engagement, and increasing brand visibility across platforms. By leveraging data analytics, I continuously refine my strategies to optimize performance and stay ahead of trends, delivering results that not only capture attention but also foster meaningful connections.
Finding Art In My Day To Day Life
