Meet Hank Powell, the Associate Manager of the Audrey's Museum Store. Hank has been with us for two and a half years and sat down with us to discuss some of his interests and tell us stories about his time here.

Q: Describe a Skirball event you had the opportunity to attend. What made it special for you?

A: The Puppet Festival, hands down, has been the most amazing event I have attended at a museum institution. The numerous puppeteers, the different shows and the interaction with people out and about is something that cannot be matched. Seeing families light up during the UCLA Lion Dancers performance or having an almost private show from the Rasputin Marionette company are just a few of the amazing things that happen during the festival. No matter where you are on campus, there is something to do, some show to see, and it is just a magical day at the Skirball for everyone.

Q: Tell us about a past or present exhibition that you enjoyed and why.

A: An exhibition that I really enjoyed that was previously at the Skirball was the Fabric of a Nation exhibition. I never knew much about quilting or anything involving textiles, but I do remember when my grandmother used to spend hours sewing and fixing up torn or damaged clothing. The exhibition showcased so many talented people in America and their work, and I loved how it tied into Skirball’s values as well as to things I watched my grandmother doing while growing up. It was also very powerful to see people who had gone through so much being able to create these pieces of art that were visually stunning while also containing so much history.

Q: What activity do you prioritize outside of Skirball? How does it interact with the work you do here?

A: Something I enjoy doing outside of work is making things by hand, specifically soap and candles. It’s almost therapeutic to gather the materials, think up a plan for color and scents, and then see where I end up. Additionally, being able to react to last-minute things (running out of the specific color being used, the consistency doesn’t look correct, etc.) is part of the process. This actually overlaps with some of the work I do at the Skirball, where I routinely have to order merchandise that we may never have had in and find ways to place it in the store as well as the website. Color and, depending on the item, the smell, can play a big part in what we order and what visitors and members of the Skirball will want to take home.

Q: Tell us about a coworker who has gone above and beyond to represent the Skirball in their work.

A: Ariela Nae, who also works in Audrey’s, has always gone above and beyond every day that she is at the Skirball. She speaks both Hebrew and English, which some of our visitors appreciate since Hebrew is their first language. Additionally, she has shown products to us that have done exceptionally well in the store, even finding us jewelry that is not sold anywhere else. Ariela is also exceptionally kind and caring, with practically everyone at the Skirball knowing her and stopping by to say hello.

Q: Which animal featured in Noah's Ark do you most identify with, and why? 

A: Capybaras are basically the biggest rodents on the planet, and they are the most chill and zen creatures. I feel like I’m pretty much the same. Plus, if you ever Google them, there are so many videos of them generally just having a great time, and that’s also what I strive to do daily.

We want to thank Hank for his work and can confirm that his soaps are one of a kind. Hank's attention to detail, general enthusiasm, and commitment to learning make him a wonderful member of our community. Thank you, Hank, for sharing your energy and hard work with us! We can't wait to continue to watch you grow.

Our institution is more than just a workplace—it's a community where each team member plays a vital role in bringing the Skirball's mission and values to life, and creating memorable experiences for all who walk through our doors. As a loving tribute to our original benefactors, Jack and Audrey Skirball, and because of the Skirballs' dedication to education and cultural exchange, we proudly call ourselves "Skirballers."

We regularly spotlight one of these Skirballers, showcasing their unique talents, passions, and contributions to our community. Through these introductions, we invite you to get to know the people who make working here truly something special.