In this episode, Kendra Robertson talks with Kurtis Loftus about building community through art, storytelling, and public space. Kurtis shares the evolution of Deck The Chairs, how it grew into a major arts initiative in Jacksonville Beach, the role of youth and student artists, and why sustainability, partnerships, and accessibility are essential to keeping community-centered events meaningful and impactful.
🎧 Hosted by: Kendra Robertson
👤 Guest:🖋 Kurtis Loftus – Community Advocate, Artist & Founder of Deck The Chairs
⭐ Guest Bio
Kurtis Loftus is the founder and creative force behind Deck The Chairs, a nonprofit public art experience that has become one of North Florida’s most beloved holiday traditions. Since 2013, the event has transformed Jacksonville Beach into a celebration of art, light, and community—supporting student creativity and arts education while drawing more than 120,000 visitors annually. Kurtis also hosts the Knot Strong podcast, where he shares stories of resilience, creativity, and community connection. With a background in design, entrepreneurship, and civic leadership, he continues to use storytelling and the arts to inspire connection and lasting impact.
💡 Key Topics Covered
✔️ Community-based public art
✔️ Student and youth arts programs
✔️ Nonprofit growth and sustainability
✔️ Partnerships with cities and cultural organizations
✔️ Preserving tradition while scaling impact
📇 Connect with Kurtis Loftus:
🌐 Website → https://deckthechairs.org/
📱 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/deck_the_chairs/
📺 YouTube → http://www.youtube.com/@KNOTStrong
📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/deckthechairs/
🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtis-loftus-71b9637/
🎙 Follow Kendra Robertson:
🌎 Website → https://kendrarobertson.com/
📘 Facebook →https://www.facebook.com/kendrarobertsonrealtor/
📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/kendra_robertson_realtor
🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-niemi-robertson-6a19063a
🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!
⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/
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