I believe that the work of artists and designers is a reflection of a creative God. In making art, experiences, and brand identities, we are crafting worlds of our own and adding beauty to the world as the Lord did before us. As a Christian, I want this to be the center of why I create. I create because God created first.
In my creative practice, I have found over the years that I adore the ideation process and divergent thinking. I love dreaming up possibilities and piecing together mood boards that paint a picture of what could be! Color, boldness, and vibrancy shine through in my design work, reflecting my desire to create experiences that evoke joy and brighten people’s days. Being intentional with finding beauty in the world and letting it create a positive impact is something I am passionate about, and I hope to channel that desire into my professional career and design rich experiences that bring a smile to people’s faces.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself?
Do it scared. Don't be intimidated by things that feel big. Just get started, and you’ll be surprised at how much you are capable of!
What's your favorite A+D memory?
I really cherish my time abroad in Italy with A+D. It was so impactful to meet pieces like Michelangelo's Pieta and David, and Botticelli's Primavera in person.
Bonus memory: In Non-Western Art History, my team got to teach the whole class a hula routine, and everybody had a blast! It felt good to share such a fun tradition with so many friends.
What was your favorite A+D class?
My favorite A+D class was Advanced 2. That class shifted my perspective as I witnessed my friends and me explore our passions and reflect on who we are as designers. This was especially impactful after we learned to design outside of our personal tastes as a form of design professionalism.
What moment, project, and/or critique in your Art + Design career at AU has been pivotal to who you are as an artist or creator?
In the spring of my sophomore year, we took Typography with Prof. Speaker. The big project that semester was building a typeface from scratch. This project was the first time I ever felt like "wow, I'm a designer, and I can do this." It gave me the confidence and encouragement I needed to keep going!
What's next for you?
Right now, it's a mystery! I aspiring to enter the themed entertainment industry (think theme parks, museums, restaurants, etc), so I am working hard to apply to jobs that will help me get my foot in the door. I trust that God has a plan, so I can walk into the uncertainty of post-grad with hope!
How do you hope your work makes an impact?
I hope that my work helps people to see and appreciate beauty in the small things. I hope that my hands will create something that makes someone stop and feel amazement, gratitude, or joy!