My process…
I chose to represent my lineage with fruit on my website while incorporating various clown illustrations for my physical work. Initially, I considered creating the diagram entirely digitally, but my fondness for traditional techniques prevailed. I used mixed media paper, gluing decorative paper onto it and attaching my decals to craft a visual representation of my lineage.
K-12, I struggled with math. This subject often made me feel constrained and frustrated. However, as I grew older, I found my voice through experimenting with the arts. In high school, many teachers evaluated students solely through academics, which felt limiting. Junior and senior years were especially intense, with standardized tests and college applications looming over us. That was when I realized that going away to college was inevitable—it made everything feel real.
During my junior year, I focused on completing my portfolio and enrolled in AP Studio Art, a class I was fortunate to take. My teacher cared deeply for her students, though I didn’t realize at the time how much I would grow under her guidance. Having a safe space to create and express myself was transformative. Some days, I even chose to eat lunch in the art room.
By sophomore year, I knew I wanted to pursue a creative field. Art had always been a valuable part of my life, but it became my true calling during high school.
