2024 course reflection
Before taking this class some of my goals were to aim towards improving my development in creating a more unique and personal background for my work. I wanted to find the thing that lets viewers know that this is my work. I needed to find something that would connect me to my work. After taking this class, I feel that I have gotten a lot closer to these goals. At first, I was just going with what I know but towards the end of the year I have concluded that the most important thing in my life is God. and with knowing that I have made some decisions and some plans to showcase that in some of my work. Not everyone is religious, but I am and it influences a large part of how I live my everyday life. I have also learned that when making art like that it may not be inclusive to everyone, and I have accepted that some people may not relate to my work or just hate it because of that. But I am an artist and I don’t have to be a people pleaser. I learned that I don’t need approval for what I find important to me. I enjoy making art and I have been searching for the thing that ties me closely to my work. I have also learned that I have a deep fascination with the ocean and I would like to keep putting that into my work as well and really allow myself to dig deep into the things I love and showcase them in my work. As an artist I think it is very Important to love your own work. And I want my work to reflect my characteristics as a person and artist. If I could go back, I would like to have more time to really develop better plans for my assignments. And be able to really connect them to myself. Sometimes I feel a little rushed in the planning stages but also, I am a slow thinker when it comes to developing my pieces outside of school but also the timing in school helps me have a stable and structured timeline to get things made.
If I were to give advise for future students I would say…
1. Explore to find the thing that you’re most connected to in art.
When you can find the thing that connects you to your art there becomes endless possibilities in your creations. Your artist statements become more complex and you feel more passionate about what you work with and it will show.
2. Always remember that your art reflects who you are.
It is important to remember that you are the face of your work. Anything you make is forever tied to your name. Make art that you feel reflects the kind of person you are or something that reflects what you feel strongly about.
3. Allow yourself to submerge into the things you love most regardless of popular opinion!
Once you feel like you have found something that you really love and are interested in, keep going! The deeper you dive into things you love the better your intention to create will be. Also, never let societal opinions deter you from what you love.