2025
IB Art Exhibition
Leo Allgeier
Self-acceptance is a journey that we all go through. It’s an easy process for some, but for others, it can cause a lot of turmoil. I’ve gone through many different stages of life, and throughout those stages, I’ve felt like a different person. My intention with this exhibition is to capture my journey of self-acceptance and to create works that others can relate to. There are so many movies, books, and TV shows about growing up, coming of age, and adolescence, but I always felt they were artificial. The media highlights those whose experiences are the most digestible for viewers. It sticks to one narrative; only recently has it diverged slightly to show a different perspective. This sterile portrayal of adolescence sparked many questions in me: Why couldn’t I relate? If I don’t look like those in the movies, am I really doing my teenage years justice? And most importantly: Who am I? Who do I want to be? When I decided that “emotional growth and self-acceptance” would be the topic of my exhibition, I knew I wanted to include those who also felt like me. I believe that making art for yourself can have many benefits, but I find making art for the good of your community very rewarding. Nevertheless, while making this exhibition, I wondered: am I doing the same thing as the popular media? After all, I am not appealing to all people in my art. Rather, I appeal to those who do not relate to the experience portrayed in books and films. I decided that it was okay to only appeal to a few people because art is meant to invoke emotion. If my art makes some people feel seen, and others feel uncomfortable, then that’s ok because, in both situations, I’ve accomplished my goal.
Finally, I feel it’s important to give some general information about my work. Firstly, each work features the star. This symbolizes one’s true self. It’s sometimes portrayed as the hero of a work, showing how one can embrace oneself. Other times, it acts as a force that the subject must hide from or fight at any cost. All my art revolves around a single work: “Final Destination” to show how no matter what state of life you’re in, you will, one day, find self-acceptance.
The Star
Water-based gouache
10.16 x 20.32 cm
February 2025
This work showcases the star by itself. My intention with this piece was to show the innateness of one's identity; there will be things you cannot change about yourself. The star appears large on the page to show its importance; however, it is the smallest piece in the exhibition because the way in which someone interacts with their authentic self is more important to focus on.
Reach for It
Mixed Media: Water-based gouache, acrylic paint, ink
48 x 14.5 cm
November 2025
This work portrays the beginning of one’s self-acceptance journey. The open hand reaches upwards, inviting the star in. The star looks directly at the viewer. I did this for two reasons: to show that you have to work for this knowledge of yourself, it will not make itself apparent or help you; and to interrogate the viewer, as if to ask if you have done your fair share of soul searching.
Denial
Water-based gouache, ink
14.8 x 21 cm
December 2025
I believe in accepting yourself even if that means disappointing those around you. Nonetheless, I have not mastered the art of disregarding what others think of me. I often find myself ignoring the parts of my identity that make others uncomfortable. Through this piece, I want to explore the moment when you have acknowledged that you are different, but you ignore it anyway.
Crush It
Water-based gouache, ink
21 x 14.8 cm
December 2025
In this work, I want to show what it looks like when you try to destroy or crush the unique parts of yourself. In the past, I have often tried to deny myself the privilege of expressing myself how I wanted. In my experience, trying to suppress your individuality comes with a large amount of self-loathing and distress. In my experience, it takes a lot of effort to change the most integral parts of yourself. This work is the antithesis of “Reach for it”.
Final Destination
Water-based gouache, ink
30.48 x 22.86 cm
January 2025
I created this work to show what I think it would feel like to reach full self acceptance. The star lies behind the subject of the piece to show that they have merged into one. On the outside of the piece are the cold, blue hues that slowly transition to warm yellow hues. This is to show how they have escaped from the coldness of non acceptance and have moved onto a new stage of life: a stage of self-love.
Aurelia Calabrese
I have always been interested in advertisements as a vessel
for creative exploration, and I have always been interested
in retro futurism, particularly aesthetics including elements
of vintage Americana. Midway through the year, I made a piece
called Atomicana, creating advertisements based off of
wordplay based on the atomic bomb. I enjoyed that piece so
much that I decided to create several of these signs and
posters in real life, and based subsequent original pieces
off of the same concept. Along the way, I discovered that
I really enjoy the use of vivid colors in my work in any
medium. I am a filmmaker, so I wanted to include an example
of cinematography. The Bomb Will Not Be Televised ties
together my exhibition with a story. One of my stronger
mediums is photography, so I chose the photos that were most
thematically relevant, though I would have liked to include
all of my photographs. I also knew that I wanted to include
my three Atomicana inspired advertisements, and I enjoy how
large they are. Due to my focus on color and light, these
pieces are arranged accordingly, with a curve of darker
colors from the RadioActive sign down the left of my
exhibition. On the right hand side, more pastel colors appear in pieces like the Cosmos sign and the Lonely Bowling photo. The process of creating and curating the exhibition helped me to identify links between my own pieces that I would not have recognized before.
Aurelia Calabrese
Diners
Digital photography
20.32cm x 25.4cm
The aesthetic of a diner exemplifies retro Americana to me, and I was able to photograph the Grand Diner in Novi, as well as Lamy’s Diner at The Henry Ford. The Grand Diner was part of a series of photographs detailing an Americana-inspired night out with friends. I enjoy the neon sign, and how the composition is similar to old photographs of diners. Lamy’s Diner was a real vintage diner that was refurbished for the museum. I enjoy how these photographs look like a concept painting more than a real place.
Aurelia Calabrese
Enjoy the Blast!
Acrylic, colored pencil, and sharpie on poster board
35cm x 50.5cm
This is the first Atomicana piece I came up with, heavily inspired by Fallout’s Nuka Cola print ads. I was inspired by poster artist Drew Struzan’s method of colored pencil on acrylic paint, and I like how it turned out. I am also proud of the font I created for the Blast! logo. In creating my original Atomicana sketch, some advertisements were based on space, some were based on the atomic bomb. This piece ties in both, with the word ‘blast’ referring to “blasting off” as well as a nuclear blast.
Aurelia Calabrese
Cosmos Lounge
Corkboard, paper, wood, cardboard, acrylic, hot glue, LED strips
32.5cm x 37cm
Through these pieces I’ve discovered I heavily include color and light in all of my work, so a neon sign was a logical next step. Inspired by interestingly shaped signs, I created a sign for a space age lounge, with the atomic hint of “escape the world”. The hardest part of making this sign was finding a small, flexible LED strip, especially with how my available materials hindered how large I could make the sign.
Aurelia Calabrese
The Bomb Will Not Be Televised
Cinematography
1920p x 1080p
I am a filmmaker, so I’ve been experimenting with cinematography this year in IB Art. At the time of creation, there were two themes running parallel through my artwork: snapshots in time and Americana. I wanted to combine the two themes, so I created a hotel commercial battling over the airwaves with a warning
about an atomic bomb. I enjoy how the black and white “testing”, “please stand by”, and “countdown” turned out. The glitch and bomb effects were created from scratch in
DaVinci Resolve.
Aurelia Calabrese
Lonely Bowling
Digital Photography
20.32cm x 25.4cm
Part of my collection of photos from an Americana-inspired night out with friends, bowling both feels like a retro Americana activity and carries memories of going bowling when I was younger. Inspired by painter Edward Hopper’s themes of urban loneliness, I like how there is only one person in the image, frozen mid-bowl. The relative smallness of the subject juxtaposed against the many lanes gives it a sense of timelessness and loneliness.
Aurelia Calabrese
RadioActive Broadcast Corp.
Acrylic and sharpie on wood
113.5cm x 49cm
I wanted to create a 50s television ad, as well as use the word ‘radioactive’, so I made a billboard advertising television that’s “better than radio”. My favorite part about this billboard is how large it is. I am especially proud of how the explosion from the TV turned out. When I created the sign, I was worried that weathering it would ruin it, but I like how it makes the sign look like it could have been standing for decades.
Aurelia Calabrese
Roadside America
Digital Photography
25.4cm x 20.32cm
When visiting the Henry Ford museum, there are several examples of Americana to photograph. I enjoy the vibrant colors of this neon sign. This feels like a sign one would see on an American road trip, and as such feels inspired by John Margioles’ photographs of roadside attractions. The vibrancy of this photo makes it look like a concept painting, giving it a dreamy, unreal feeling.
Evelyn Brockenshire
These artworks were selected with the consideration of importance and impact on me as the artist, and stylistic harmony. They are arranged in accordance to size, with the largest piece being of great focus, but placed on the side to balance with the other pieces, placing them all on the same level of significance. Each piece was made with a differing context but stemmed from the same source. My original intention when starting my exhibition was to explore my own emotional vulnerability, as that is something I deliberately hid when portraying my exhibition last year. When brainstorming for a piece, the first step I took was tuning in with myself, looking into where I was at that point in my life, asking myself: what lessons am I learning or have learned recently? What emotions and experiences have I been feeling? Where am I most artistically tuned into right now? By presenting this body of work, I hope to create pieces that my viewers can establish their own personal connections with. I want them not only to marvel at absurdity and aesthetics, but to feel struck, and just maybe, one of my pieces will reflect where they might be in their life. A motif that is present throughout each piece is substance use. Substances for me as an artist represent the metaphysicality of being a human most upfront. There is so much we feel and experience that is not apparent to the eyes; to be a functional human is to be connected to that metaphysicality. As a chemist and toxicology researcher, I have an intimate relationship with the concepts of illegal drug use. Creative arts grants me the chance to explore my infatuation with substances in a more 3-dimensional manner and connect with my own chemical background. One stylistic choice I used to express this is the incorporation of words, chemical graphs and visuals, and symbols. The setup of my exhibition contributes to the meanings of my artwork by balancing graphic, non-traditional pieces in an arranged, organized manner that utilises the empty space between them.
OHH YEAHAHH BABY OOHH YEAHHH
Black ink, Watercolour paint
Size in cm: 10.16 x 10.16 cm
05 December 2024
This piece was created during a context of emotional discovery, as I learned of my relationship with conflict. The colour scheme was deliberate to communicate a sense of peace, contrasting the grotesque distortion of the human body. The whole piece is designed around a balance of chaos and tranquility. It is included for its thematic ties to disorder and metaphysicality.
MDMA Girl
Found object, Acrylic Paint, Glitter Glue, Fabric, Ink, Pencil,
Size in cm: 25.4 x 35.5 cm
26 January 2025
I included this piece as it represented a breakthrough in my artistic nature. This piece was my first exploration with found object, and I find the medium is powerful in expressing my thematics. The purpose of the work is to highlight peace and divinity found within the forced ripping of one’s reality when using psychedelics.
Hippie Dippie
Black ink, Water-based marker, Sharpie, Thread Cutter
17.78 x 17.78 cm
27 February 2025
This piece pulls from traditional psychedelic colours, incorporating organic shapes and a balance of white line and vivid hue. I intended to emote a blend of personal expression and historic influence, in partnership with my psychedelic revolution piece. This piece involves high visual stimulation with delicate floral patterns, to engage the viewer’s eye in a peaceful yet energizing manner.
Beautiful Woman
Acrylic Paint, Ink, Water-based marker, Masking tape, Acrylic Yarn
Size in cm: 20.32 x 30.48 cm
08 February 2024
This piece was the first exploration of the presence of disorder in the nature of life. I felt truly satisfied when I created it; it was a huge learning curve. The work is included in the exhibition for its thematic ties, but also to broaden the scope of the body, as it has less ties to substance use than the other pieces.
Formaldehyde
Spray paint, Paper, Acrylic paper, Graffiti ink, House paint, Sharpie, Acrylic paint markers
152.4 x 121.92 cm
16 March 2025
This piece was the breakthrough. I have not made a piece more important to me than this one. The work pulls from the real history of the psychedelic revolution. The rebellion, the thinkers, the hatred and fighting that was present in the Summer of Love. Before the angel-headed hipsters lied Black revolutionaries and medical pioneers. This piece is an honour to them, to history, and to myself, my interests, and the future.
Lexi Stevens
I went into this class believing I could make many pieces to fill the art house walls, but this year has been difficult and has taken its toll on me. I’m fueled with so much negative emotion, and I just push it down because it’s hard to face. Now, my art puts me face-to-face with my inner turmoil. The process of creating art as a whole is healing for me. Turning my rage and grief into a physical medium was not only soothing to create, but also made me sort out my feelings and process them. I’ve come to terms with many things this year, many of them negative, but I’ve learned that that’s okay. I used to say I hated politics because they divided people in my life, and I didn't want to make them angry. I used to not talk about my depression because I didn’t want other people to feel upset. Now, I want to include pieces that talk about those things because I am tired of pleasing other people and suffering for it. So, while my body of work is healing for me, it is also a message of my growth for the audience (even if I’m not ready to say it yet).I went into this class believing I could make many pieces to fill the art house walls, but this year has been difficult and has taken its toll on me. I’m fueled with so much negative emotion, and I just push it down because it’s hard to face. Now, my art puts me face-to-face with my inner turmoil. The process of creating art as a whole is healing for me. Turning my rage and grief into a physical medium was not only soothing to create, but also made me sort out my feelings and process them. I’ve come to terms with many things this year, many of them negative, but I’ve learned that that’s okay. I used to say I hated politics because they divided people in my life, and I didn't want to make them angry. I used to not talk about my depression because I didn’t want other people to feel upset. Now, I want to include pieces that talk about those things because I am tired of pleasing other people and suffering for it. So, while my body of work is healing for me, it is also a message of my growth for the audience (even if I’m not ready to say it yet).
Photo of Self
A Big Joke
Stoneware Clay, Underglaze
16 cm x 11.5 cm X 1.2 cm
February 2025
I want people to realize the irony of the US in this moment and in our history. I want to reflect the sentiment that many Americans, especially the youth, feel. We were promised equality and justice. We were promised a bright future. I spent a lot of my life having pride in my country because I believed these promises. I wanted to preserve what I thought was a great nation, so I wanted to be a marine. I now realize that these promises were empty. The state of this country is a mockery of everything we were promised and hoped for. I chose this piece because this realization morphed my worldview. The person I am now is not the person I was a couple of months ago, and politics has influenced that.
Dust to Dust
Stoneware Clay, Underglaze
7 cm X 6.5 cm x 6.5 cm
January 2025
I lost my grandfather right after New Year's. It’s been really hard for me to process. I know that Death is what makes life valuable, but knowing that does not ease the pain it causes. I wish I could spend more time with the people I’ve lost. The only thing I have of them now is a memory, and I’m afraid of those memories fading away, too. I made this piece to reflect on my memories and grieve my losses.
Natural Balance
Stoneware Clay, Underglaze
19 cm x 18.5 cm x 3.4 cm
October 2024�
I’ve been trying to balance a lot of things in my life, and it's been really hard. This piece was made to show balance and that it is exhausting. Even though balance is difficult, it’s necessary for my world to function properly, just as the sun and stars help Earth function. I want people to acknowledge that while balance is necessary, it’s frustrating and tiring.
The Mirror
Digital
20.3 cm x 25.4 cm
November 2024
I want people to recognize the difficult relationship women have with their bodies due to society. I want to reflect what it feels like looking at the media and then back at my own body. I feel objectified by myself and what society wants from me. Social media promoting horrific views of women, comments made by people at school about girls, the laws legislating the right to my own body; I struggle to grapple with this reality and what I believe about myself and the world.
Olivia Tetro
My pieces reflect the world around me, taking inspiration from natural landscapes, scenery, and phenomena. I create art with the intention of conveying a peaceful mood through scenes of nature and animals. My pieces are created with the intention of encouraging others to experience and enjoy nature, allowing themselves to see the depth and beauty in everything around them. While starting the exhibition preparation and beginning my first piece, I found photos of bears sitting in nature and just admiring the scenery before them. These photos inspired me to create my first piece, Mountain Overlook, and inspired all of my other pieces acting as the common thread between them. I selected these artwork as they all relate to each other in some way, through cool toned color schemes, animal subjects, and peaceful moods. While creating these pieces, I had the idea of bringing more lifelike elements into a few pieces, resulting in a functional waterfall fountain and a lantern with twinkling lights. I found that placing these two pieces at the center of my exhibition helps to draw attention to and provide ambiance for the rest of my pieces, as well as themselves. The rest of my pieces are placed in an arch arrangement around these two pieces, creating a frame of landscapes around the center pieces. These pieces best show my skills and style as an artist, with clean lines and intentionally chosen colors and perspectives, giving my pieces the depth and quality I strive for. I began with simple pieces, believing they would best convey a peaceful mood, but gradually started using more color and detail without restricting myself only to what was simple and clean, and eventually progressing into watercolor. This resulted in a body of work with both variety and unity, as I was able to keep my personality and overall intention in each one.
Olivia Tetro
Mountain Overlook
Stoneware, Underglaze
20 x 20 x 4 cm
December 2024
My intentions for this piece were to show a bear overlooking a mountain range, peacefully enjoying nature. I was influenced by a previous piece I’ve made including mountains and I wanted to include an animal subject within the simple design. This piece served as the basis for the rest of my pieces, all focusing on peaceful nature scenes and animal subjects. I chose to feature this piece as it was the turning point in what I designed and created going forward and inspired many more pieces.
Olivia Tetro
Twinkling Stars
Stoneware, Underglaze
12 x 13 x 9 cm
December 2024
My intentions for this piece were to create a piece with more texture and detail for some variety in my work. I wanted to include twinkling stars from real light to mimic a clear night sky. I was inspired by the night skies Up North, with minimal light pollution, allowing for the bright stars to shine through the partings in the trees. I chose this piece to bring an element of light for a more captivating scene, as well as a bunny looking up at the peaceful, quiet sky.
Olivia Tetro
Northern Sky
Stoneware, Underglaze
26 x 13 x 2 cm
January 2025
My intentions for this piece were to showcase the Northern Lights through a painting, drawing attention to the colorful sky. I wanted the main focus to be the night sky, so I left the landscape bare and empty. I also included a polar bear looking up and admiring the glowing light, taking in the glowing streaks of blue above him. I was influenced by the northern lights appearing in Michigan and the blended array of colors in the night sky. I chose this piece because the oval shape gives lots of emphasis to illustrate the complete sky landscape.
Olivia Tetro
Cascading falls
Stoneware, Underglaze, Water pump
18 x 18 x 24 cm
February 2025
My intentions for this piece were to bring a lifelike element to a sculpted landscape. I created this piece to portray a serene landscape inspired by a photo I took over the summer on a trip to Ireland, featuring a waterfall surrounded by layers of greenery. I wanted to create a scene as calming as that memory, adding in the visual and sound of cascading water to better capture the scene. I chose this piece as I feel it adds life to my body of work and showcases both my painting and sculpting skills.
Olivia Tetro
Change in Scenery
Watercolor, Watercolor Paper, Metallic Watercolor
15 x 10 cm
January 2025
My intentions for this piece were to show multiple bears admiring different landscapes at once. I wanted to illustrate how natural landscapes look much different around the world, but are each beautiful in their own way. The placement of the bears represents the enjoyment of nature going unchanged even in different locations and scenes, one with vivid colors and greenery, the other with pale blue snow hills. I chose this piece to show the peaceful enjoyment of nature through different perspectives.
Olivia Tetro
Foggy Forest
Watercolor, Watercolor Paper
14 x 14 cm
February 2025
My intentions for this piece were to create a different landscape that is quiet and subdued. I was inspired by a fabric pattern I saw in December, with muted greens and greys creating a forest. I included my thread element, in the form of a badger, sitting in the clearing of the trees watching the fog roll over the mountains and spread beneath the trees. I chose to include this piece in my exhibition for a slight variation in mood and tone, while still displaying a quiet and peaceful nature scene.
Olivia Tetro
Morning Woodland
Watercolor, Watercolor Paper
17.5 x 9.5 cm
February 2025
My intentions for this piece were to capture the depth and shading of a forest covered in snow using colorful light and shadows. I was inspired by the lighting of early mornings and how the sun reflects off of the scenery and snow to create vivid colors, such as these warm and cool tones in my color scheme. I chose this piece to give more variety in tone and color to my exhibition, and to fit the peaceful mood all of my pieces bring.
Lucy Spradlin
I have never been good with literacy. Being diagnosed with profound dyslexia in third grade gave that fact a name. Dyslexia. It’s the mental disability my mom calls a superpower, that one trait that makes me unique. But in my heart, I couldn't help but feel the weight of that label. It didn't feel special. It felt isolating, a reminder of the struggles that set me apart in ways I never wanted. My ability to communicate through written words betrayed me, my thoughts repeatedly left tangled and unspoken. Art is the one place where no words are left unspoken, where my silenced ideas found a voice. Every brushstroke and line spoke louder than my words ever could. I poured out the emotions that I couldn't articulate. Art created a platform for my unexpressed thoughts to exist. It has always been hard for me to communicate my thoughts and art is an outlet and source of communication. My exhibition is about how the world is for me, it's about things that we all struggle with and feelings that are hard to communicate with others. Through this exhibition, I will show emotions that I can't express with words.
“what if…”
by Lucy Spradlin.
8x10
Acrylic on canvas
This piece is about my anxiety. Most nights, I stay up late, either thinking about past mistakes or about the future. This painting shows this person just waking up, her head on a pillow, her hair over her head, and in a semi-comfortable position. Despite this, her face has an expression of worry and extortion, creating a contrast between her body and face. The soft fading gives a sense of comfort, and the cool tones show that it is late at night. The tones contrast with her skin color with the intense yellows and oranges that make you feel alert. You can tell that what she is thinking is causing her to lose sleep.
Lucy Spradlin
Lucy Spradlin
“Sit n’ the S#it”
Lucy Spradlin.
8x10
Acrylic on canvas
This piece is about being self-destructive. Once you make a decision, you can't take it back, and you just have to live in it. Kind of like, “You made your bed, you lie in it." The background fades to black to put emphasis on the person. I did this to show how nothing but themselves. The mood of this piece is sort of quiet after the hurricane, just sitting in the silence and thinking about what you’ve done. I chose this piece because it fits into the theme of my experiences in life.
Lucy Spradlin
“Losing Myself”
Lucy Spradlin.
8x10
Acrylic on canvas
This piece is about the journey to recovery. In my experience, the medication I am on stops me from making impulsive decisions. This is a good thing, but the cost of that is a feeling in my heart where all I feel is pain and exotion, which makes me come to the conclusion that there is no meaning to life. While I know that that statement is untrue, I keep wondering: do the benefits of the medication outweigh the cost? In this work, there is a character slouched over a sink. The character is crying, looking at the viewer (you). The water is running, and two medication bottles are on the counter. In the mirror, instead of a reflection, there is an assortment of colors. The mood of this piece is distress and sadness, not knowing what the character has been through but knowing that they are struggling. I chose this piece because it fits into the theme of my experiences in life.
Lucy Spradlin
“Mad Cat”
Lucy Spradlin.
7x10
Mixed media on paper
This piece was intended to be just something that I did for fun. I used my cat as inspiration, and I just made her angry. This piece shows a really angry cat; its hair is up and its ears are back. There are orange and yellow flames surrounding the cat, emphasizing its anger. I chose this piece because it complements the rest of it, with all the works showing the same amount of emotion.
Lucy Spradlin
“Hot-Head”
Lucy Spradlin.
6x8
Mixed media on paper
This piece is about taking action. This work was inspired by punk in the 1990s. I don't want to go into a history lesson, but the 1990s was a time when people started taking action through violence to get what they wanted. The piece shows a boy; his face is covered by a backwards baseball cap, but we can see the shadows of his eyes staring directly at something in the distance. He is in a baseball pitching pose, but instead of a ball, he is about to throw a molotov cocktail (basically a bomb). The background is black except for sharp shapes of yellow and red. The mood of this piece is calm content; the boy is certain of what he is about to do, looking directly at his target. I chose this piece because it complements the rest of this piece; all the works show the same amount of emotion.
Lucy Spradlin
“Minor Set-Back”
Lucy Spradlin.
18x12
Mixed media on paper
This piece is based on a personal experience of mine. I was in the hospital for my mental health. In the hospital you meet with a physiatrist to evaluate your mental state and to discuss why you are there. That is the moment that I wanted to show in this piece. This piece is made with watercolor, colored pencils, markers, and acrylic paint. The water color is the background, the color pencil is to add to the background and the acrylic paint is to add the details like the vital machine, chairs and markers. These materials were to make an annoyingly colorful piece to contrast the “depressing” event that I'm trying to show. The markers were to make the dark figures and silhouettes. Because it's hard for me to explain in words my experiences I draw them instead, this is one of those experiences that impacted me greatly.
Lucy Spradlin
“Diner”
Lucy Spradlin.
8x12
Mixed media on paper
This piece shows people eating at a diner. I used a fish eye perspective to add to the playful touch. Using bright colors and cartoonish characters I made this piece bright and fun. I mainly used alcohol markers and colored pencils, I knew these mediums would give me the most vibrant colors. Ultimately, this work is a reflection of my artistic journey, showcasing my efforts to experiment with perspective while embracing a fun and vibrant style.
Lucy Spradlin
“Halloween”
Lucy Spradlin.
8x12
Charcoal on paper
When learning about drawing, the class was instructed to draw a still life. I decided to draw a still life inspired by the halloween season. This drawing features a pumpkin with candy scattered in front of it. I chose a dark atmosphere for this piece with the only source of light being the pumpkin.
Lucy Spradlin
“Rat King”
Lucy Spradlin.
Mixed media on clay
This piece is a ball angle towards the side in the bowl. We see five rats all identical in the middle. There is a Celtic knot with all their tails. The ball is purple and the rats' white line is used to make the rats and the Celtic knot. There is balance within the line with all the rats and their Celtic, not not looking heavier than the other, the color purple makes the white rat stand out. This piece is … beautiful yet sad the rats are a creature that is associated with filth. The design they make with their tails is beautiful. This piece was successful in showing that beauty can come in many forms
Lucy Spradlin
“Road Kill”
Lucy Spradlin.
Mixed media on clay
You see a raccoon on its back, its feet are in the air and it’s chest is open, exposing its rib cage in the ribs. We can see a not realistic heart. This piece is still there is no movement with the fur being the only exception the form of the hair makes it feel that it has been or could be moved. There is emphasis on the heart in the middle of the rib cage in color and placement. This piece is pensive. It causes deep reflection and contemplation. This piece is supposed to be a morbid reminder that even animals have hearts and want to live, just like humans.
Lucy Spradlin
“Urban Life”
Lucy Spradlin.
Mixed media on clay
This is a diorama of an alleyway in a city. I aimed to inject a cartoonish twist into the everyday urban experience. My goal was to transform the often gritty and overlooked aspects of city life into a vibrant, playful scene that captures the imagination. I wanted this piece to have vibrant colors that make it look cartoonish. I love urban areas, especially graffiti, which heavily influenced the design of this piece. Graffiti is an essential part of city culture, and I wanted to celebrate its artistic value by incorporating bold, eye-catching designs into the diorama. Using acrylic paint allowed me to achieve a rich texture and depth, making the graffiti pop against the backdrop of the alleyway. To inject some action and personality into the scene, I decided to depict a dumpster on fire. This element adds a dynamic focal point, creating a sense of chaos and excitement amidst the otherwise playful environment.
Lilica Hayami
I have always been drawn towards artworks with an unsettling feeling to them. Something that makes people feel uneasy and rethink their way of thinking, philosophy, political view, etc. I want my exhibition pieces to reflect upon my way of thinking about themes covering femininity and abuse. The pieces I show create a storyboard, a reflection upon problems surrounding abuse and the recovery. About the problems surrounding women, no matter where they are. I selected these five art pieces as they resonate with me personally and the connection they have with each other. They create a story about going through abuse as well as navigating the aftermath. Many seem to only see the abuse but not the healing process. However, I hope to shine some light on the recovery of such traumatic experiences by showcasing my pieces in a format in which they highlight and connect to each of the pieces that are on display. The connection can be seen through the artstyle as well as the message of each piece and how they pass on from one to another. Although it was hidden, I struggled frequently while making my pieces, mostly due to the fact that I was scared by the fact that my art would be seen as sloppy, or “not good enough”. I have never “excelled” at one specific artstyle and due to this, I had many insecurities about my art. I also struggled with the concept and themes of my artwork, often questioning if it was too bold or if the viewers could see the message that I wanted to convey, etc. However, after witnessing many other artists and their pieces, I have come to see that the interpretation is up to the viewers and that is the beauty of art. Although there is only a single piece, so many versions can be made in people’s minds which shows how art can connect everyone together. Therefore, I hope that my exhibition can showcase my perspective on the themes of femininity and the many possibilities of the future.
Duality
Paper, Pencil
22.8 x 30.5 cm
December 13, 2024
Many young women go through the hardship of trying to be perfect due to societal pressure. Whether it’s in appearance, personality, the way you talk, etc. Duality encompasses the many sides of women, including the ones that we want to keep hidden. The imperfection seems to scare many but the true beauty is what lies after the “perfection”.
Silence
Poster Paper, Pencil
56.6 x 71.5 cm
January 5, 2025
Abuse is something that many people experience. Whether it be mental, physical, sexual, abuse can be something that people don’t even notice. Silence embodies the ignorance of a victim, by showcasing the hidden eyes with duct tape and the silence with the black dahlia flower.
Resilience
Paper, Pencil, watercolor
22.8 x 30.5 cm
January 21, 2025
Hardship is faced by everyone. Regardless of who you are, we have all experienced the feeling of failure and giving up. However, Resilience is a piece that shows a growth under the harshest conditions. Although the bamboo is soaked in blood and the heart is failing, the bamboo continues to grow as through hardship, we can find an even greater result.
Reflection
Paper, Pencil
22.8 x 30.5 cm
February 10, 2025
Many people take advantage of people, especially when they are young. Sexual abuse is one of the most common types of abuse seen, and although the victims can be both genders, the most common victim are women. Reflection showcases the victim of a sexual abuse. The handprint on her body indicates the abuse and the scattered glass shows her reflection. Throught the midst of this, shows her inner self in the orb, as her outer self desperately tries to protect the one thing left of herself.
Looking back
Mixed Media (Paper, pencil, watercolor, glue)
36.5 x 56.7 cm
March 3, 2025
Many have a hard time moving on after experiencing something traumatic. There are often symptoms of depression, flashbacks, etc. Looking Back sheds light to the victims as well as encourages many to find happiness. The main character is looking back as if unsure to go through the unknown. But know that everyone deserves the chance to live happily.
Emma Saad
My body of work explores themes of introspection, imagination, and the beauty of nature. I convey these themes through the use of color, movement, and contrast. A recurring element in my artwork is the interaction between warm and cool tones. Warm colors- such as golds, oranges, and reds are often used to symbolize spiritual transcendence and personal discovery. These colors stand out against the cool, dark backgrounds, which I use to create a sense of depth and isolation. This solitude allows space for contemplation. My work incorporates surreal elements, reflecting the way the mind blends emotions and dreams. Swirling patterns and fluid shapes are another characteristic of my art. These elements give the pieces a sense of motion and vitality, drawing the eye across the composition. I often incorporate these patterns with nature, such as flowing water, drifting clouds, or vines. Additionally, I use light in my pieces to convey energy. I found it difficult to achieve these effects with physical mediums, which is why I created them digital on an app called Procreate. Nature is a central theme in this exhibition, shown in both realistic and surreal ways. Animals, plants, and celestial features are used to create dreamlike pictures and evoke introspection. Glowing details, like fireflies or stars, add contrast between dark and light, giving a mood of wonder and speculation. Some pieces hold deeper symbolic meaning, while others focus on aesthetics, depicting the calm and whimsical sides of nature. This balance allows the exhibition to give a variety of emotions, from peaceful and thoughtful to imaginative and uplifting. Through both the surreal, my work aims to inspire viewers to recognize the beauty in the world around them and gain a deeper sense of self-awareness.
Emma Saad
Untitled
28 x 56 cm
Medium: Digital, Procreate
December 18, 2024
The woman's calm expression and isolation represents finding inner light- she literally glows- through solitude. Holding a star, as though she is grasping a piece of the sky, she symbolizes spiritual transcendence. I chose to leave this piece untitled as I could not think of one that fit.
Emma Saad
Leaping for the Stars
28 x 56 cm
Medium: Digital, Procreate
February 27, 2025
In this piece, the frog is trying to achieve a greater purpose by `reaching for the stars’. The frog’s leap, although seemingly small, represents the courage to pursue dreams that seem impossible.
Emma Saad
Title: Mind and Soul
28 x 56 cm
Medium: Digital, Procreate
January 16, 2025
I intended for this piece to represent the difference between the logical mind and unrestricted soul. The right, mechanical side represents the mind's order and precision. And the left, with its flowing lines and vibrant colors, represents the soul’s unbound freedom.
Emma Saad
Untitled
28 x 56 cm
Medium: Digital, Procreate
February 19, 2025
My intention was to capture the hidden beauty of a secluded natural space. I wanted to create a peaceful scene that gives the viewer a sense of comfort.
Emma Saad
The Dreamer
28 x 56 cm
Medium: Digital, Procreate
January 17, 2025
The macaw in this piece is a symbol of freedom created by the woman’s mind. My intention is to show how imagination offers an escape from the limitations of everyday life.
Emma Saad
Nighttime
28 x 56 cm
Medium: Digital, Procreate
January 27, 2025
My intention is to show the peaceful calm of nature in this piece. It's about appreciating the quiet moments.
Javi Umanzor
I created these pieces as an homage to the different advancements made by old illustrators in the comic book industry. Alex Ross, a famous artist, broke boundaries in the industry and allowed for people to perceive fictitious characters in a world that looked exactly like ours. Creating this new art brought many characters to life in an astounding way. Although his work is breathtaking, I feel that these characters work best when set in their own world. Drawing back to cartoonish and magical aspects of early comics, I created a series of works that push the boundaries in a different way than Ross. The works that I am presenting in my show portray my style in the superhero genre. More specifically through the lens of the 1950s and 1960s comic style. By creating my own unique characters and specific scenarios for them, I am taking my first steps into a new branch of self expression. This body of work engages the audience with the world of bold comic art that does not remind them of the world outside their window. These pieces have them interact with the idea that escapism into a fantastical world with marvelous heroines is okay. The settings of the pieces draw from many places that appear in our world. Although this does not distract from the theme of taking simple ideas from this world and using art to transcend them to another plane of expression. Watercolor, ink pen, and alcohol marker gave me the freedom to use vibrant colors or soft pastel tones. These variations gave way for a multitude of intricate yet simplistic styles. The watercolor allows me to blend drastically different colors into a happy medium, while the pen and marker create harsh, bold lines that make the piece emerge off the page. Starting each artwork with a sketch guided me to a perfect translation of what I envisioned in my head and what I put on paper. The colors used in the piece truly determined the layout of how they are viewed by the audience. By creating a right -centric format, some pieces worked harder than others. Because of this I put my stronger pieces towards the right and the more softer toned pieces toward the left as it trails off. This specific layout creates a dynamic feel, which continues to boost the theme of being entranced by a remarkable other world.
Javi Umanzor
Close Up
Watercolor & Ink Pen
27.9cm x 35.6cm
January 2025
“Close Up” is meant to be my experimentation with a more dynamic pose and figure. Enhancing this pose, perspective is the anchor of the piece that elevates it to a new level. Each piece in the body is meant to represent different breakthroughs in the comics and illustration industry. In drawing the main figure a certain way, I force the viewer to behold the piece in a specific manner, allowing them to catch a glimpse of my vision for this piece.
Javi Umanzor - ET
Monstrous
Watercolor, Alcohol Marker, & Ink Pen
27.9cm x 35.6cm
February 2025
For this piece, my main intention was to effectively use the color tones of the piece in order to give the illusion of low-key lighting. By adding extra shading to the two figures, I am able to properly explore the dimensions of their forms, anchoring them to the softly layered background of the piece. This piece was a must for the exhibition because of its voyage into the more supernatural side of comic book storytelling.
Javi Umanzor
Bam
Watercolor, Alcohol Marker, & Ink Pen
27.9cm x 35.6cm
March 2025
“Bam” is meant to be the continuation of the elements explored in “Bang”. Through its shared designs, similar color palette, and interchangeable character designs I am able to emphasize the features of both pieces. The black borders on the sides give the piece its own personality, yet allows it to tie back into the thread that connects all the works of the body.
Javi Umanzor
Night Life
Watercolor, Alcohol Marker, Acrylic Paint Marker, & Ink Pen
27.9cm x 35.6cm
January 2025
This piece was intended to focus on the background, rather than the figure in the center themself. The lighting bolts that run diagonally through the piece are guides for the viewer’s eye to ping from spot to spot of the city backdrop. “Night Life” also acts as a continuation of lighting work that is seen in “Monstrous”. Including this piece in the body of work creates a more cohesive set of works that flatter each other positively.
Javi Umanzor
Tentacles
Watercolor, Acrylic Paint Marker, Ink Pen
27.9cm x 35.6cm
February 2025
“Tentacles” is meant to fully embrace a more mystical side of the comic industry that is only hinted at in “Monstrous”. My work is greatly influenced by the historical and ancient monsters that come from old legends. “Tentacles” evokes strong feelings of enigma and was chosen specifically to admire the concepts touched in “Monstrous”.
Javi Umanzor
Bang
Watercolor, Alcohol Marker, & Ink Pen
27.9cm x 35.6cm
November 2024
Bang originally was meant to play with the impact effect that old comic book artists used to use when comics were born to show action happening in the piece. My piece is heavily influenced by the old comic books of the 1960’s. I kept the variation of colors to a minimum in order to not make a too complex piece to pay respect to the limit of ink colors able to be used during the 60’s. Vibrance and bright colors decorate the piece to enhance the impact effects that are the focuses of the piece.
Thara Balasubramaniam
Art has always been the language of my mind and soul. I believe that the artwork I create represents my beliefs, emotions, and messages I sometimes fear to say aloud. As I meet new people and experience new realities, I am met with stories that shape my perspective and inspire me to create. Each piece I make carries a narrative, whether it encourages connection, sparks conversation, or prompts reflection. Through my art, I hope to offer viewers an opportunity to pause and consider their own experiences, identities, and emotions.
Originally, the inspiration for my pieces stemmed from themes of culture and identity. I wanted to explore bold colors and designs that challenged traditional artistic norms. I intended to showcase cultural motifs and elements that celebrated heritage while also embracing unconventional forms of expression. However, as the year went on, my understanding of myself changed. I found that I was no longer creating pieces solely to explore my cultural background but instead, my work began to reflect my internal growth.
This shift in focus came as I embraced the person I was becoming. Someone who stood firm in her beliefs, someone who found the courage to speak up, and someone who trusted herself above all else. My artistic thread evolved from exploring identity to embracing growth. Each piece became a reflection of the parts of myself that I had hidden away, my struggles, my triumphs, and my journey toward self-acceptance. My work began to ask deeper questions.
My creative process is deeply personal. Each piece begins with envisioning what my mind is trying to communicate. I sketch out ideas, playing with form, color, and design before selecting a medium that best brings those ideas to life. My work spans various mediums, from wood to watercolor, each chosen intentionally to enhance the message I want to convey. The time I spend with each piece allows me to reflect on my journey and become a part of my healing process. Looking back, I can see my style, my values, and the lessons I’ve learned are all embedded in the finished works.
My thread of work reveals the most personal aspects of my identity and journey. Recurring lotus flowers symbolize my soul, a sacred part of myself that I have learned to embrace as the world around me continues to change. The lotus represents resilience, self-awareness and a reminder of my will to grow into my true self. Cultural motifs, such as traditional patterns and symbolic designs, reflect my ties to my heritage. The women I depict are imagined versions of who I envision, figures adorned with traditional clothing, their hair decorated with flowers. They stand as reminders of the strength I have found within myself. The vines that appear in my pieces represent the external forces that once restricted my growth, yet over time, these vines shift, becoming a presence that eventually fades, symbolizing my ability to overcome them.
The abstract faces I include in my work depict people in their most authentic form, imperfect yet constantly evolving. These figures remind me that growth is not linear, we are all flawed yet striving to become the person we hope to be. Through the thorns and the roses, I have found strength in embracing my flaws, my fears, and my triumphs. Each piece tells the story of who I am, a person who has grown stronger through challenges, embraced her identity, and found beauty in both hardship and hope.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Divine Beauty”
Size: 10 x 12
Medium: Wood + Paint + Clay elements
“Divine Beauty” is about the idea of accepting yourself, flaws and all.Inspired by stained glass, clay weaves broken lines across the piece to resemble moments of vulnerability and mistakes. When we take a step back, the piece with hidden cracks, still remains beautiful and worthy, becoming a true depiction of soul.The use of emerging lotus flower, connects back to my repeated theme of growth and journey of acceptance. Its shimmering stones as a sign of inner beauty, representing my true soul.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Looking Glass”
Size: 3 x 3 in
Medium: Duct Tape + Marker
“Looking glass” is about reflection as the clear background acts as a mirror reflecting my past mistakes back to me. But instead of hiding, I choose to embrace it, creating a looking glass to the future, with the lotus flowers as a symbol of growth. The gold resembles a japanese art form called Kintsugi, which mends broken ceramic with gold piping. It is meant to convey that our mistakes are the way for us to learn and grow. This piece is a safe place for me to accept my flaws and grow.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Circle of Safety”
Size: 3 x 5
Medium: Wood + Paint
“Circle of Safety” is about finding safety in my culture. It explores my cultural identity, something I once felt distant from and finding comfort.There is always an inherent need to hide but home became a place where I could be myself. These symbols such as flowers, cows,and patterns represent my connection to family and heritage. The royal blue background shows my emotional security and as a source of strength, as I choose to embrace who I am and continue to learn about myself.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Flow”
Size: 4 x 11 in
Medium: Watercolor
“Flow” is about envy and the longing for finding my acceptance in one’s self. A lotus resides peacefully in the flowing water as an external hand longs to touch it. Green vines creep around the longing hand to represent the challenges that come with starting away from the norm. It depicts the challenges of finding self acceptance and achieving peace as society tends to limit our growth.
Thara Balasubramaniam
Blank Stare
Size: 8.5 x 11
Medium: Mixed Media
“Blank stare” portrays the mystical gaze of holding peace within oneself. The long woven braids tightly wrap her body to symbolize embracing one’s culture. Each braid becomes a memory of language, traditions, and identity. She resembles hidden beauty in achieving bliss and finding self. The recurring flower represents her held growth, and her blank eyes not empty but calm, that ignores passing judgement, anxiety, or doubt to surpass her mind. In this state, she is believed to reach peace.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Touch-me-nots”
Size: 8.5 x 11
Medium: Mixed Media
“Touch-me-nots” depict the frustration of feeling disconnected from her sense of self and identity. The recurring lotus flowers are symbols of growth as tears in her eyes show her inner turmoil as she reaches her hand out to the lotus flower. In an attempt to touch, the hesitant hand only points to flowers as though she is afraid to embrace her true self. Through the use of the traditional attire, the envisioned lady is essentially a shadow of a vision that has been longed for.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Cover up”
Size: 4 x 7 in
Medium: Colored Pencil + Marker
“Cover up” depicts an organic form sprouting from the ground to show struggle of rising as my true self. Its cracked form reveals the emotional toll of constantly masking my identity as external voices shut me down.Thick branches resembling hands cover the eyes and mouth to inhibit its voice as symbols of those who hid my voice.Yet the figure grows, defying the obstacles shown through the symbol of an leaf.Overall, it's about hiding from society’s gaze and rising victorious despite challenges.
Thara Balasubramaniam
“Glass cage”
Size: 10 x 12
Medium: Wood + Paint + Clay elements
“Glass Cage” depicts lotus flowers enclosed in glass cages to symbolize the parts of myself I keep hidden. The gold leaf and jewels represent the joy and confidence that rises as I break free from fear. These are to represent the joy and utter bliss one feels when they understand who they truly are. The trapped flowers are one boundary away from finding its voice and confidence and beginning to accept myself.
Sarah Ye
I’ve always been fascinated by the contrast between movement and stillness, chaos and serenity. The way a ship fights against the waves, pushing forward despite the forces working against it, feels like a metaphor for life—full of uncertainty, but always moving. At the same time, I’ve admired the quiet beauty of tradition, the elegance in the details of cultural art that tell stories of history and identity. These two ideas, seemingly opposite, have always drawn me in, and I wanted to explore both in my work.
I chose to present these pieces together because they represent different aspects of what inspires me. The paintings of traditional figures, delicate and precise, reflect my appreciation for history, identity, and the beauty found in detail. The soft watercolors and flowing lines create a sense of grace, a stillness that feels timeless. On the other hand, the ship painting captures energy and motion, using bold brushstrokes and vibrant color to bring the waves to life. It’s a reminder of adventure, of challenges, and the persistence required to move forward.
When arranging this exhibition, I wanted to create a natural flow between these contrasting themes. The calm, intricate details of the portraits lead into the intensity of the ship, allowing the viewer to experience both quiet reflection and dynamic movement. I hope that in seeing these pieces together, others can feel the same sense of appreciation for both stillness and motion—understanding that sometimes, we must pause and reflect, and other times, we must push forward despite the storm.
This exhibition is a reflection of what I value in art and in life: the balance between peace and perseverance, tradition and exploration. It’s a reminder that both are necessary, and both have beauty in their own way.
Sarah Ye
Beyond the Sunset
This 30" x 24" painting is my first large-scale work. The image of a sailboat battling raging waters symbolizes the spirit of courageous perseverance. It is also a memory of my own determination to overcome challenges to complete this undertaking. This piece represents adventure and mystery.
Sarah Ye
The Dreams Below
Color pencils
14" x 11"
This piece shows the fluidity and nonconformity that dreams can sometimes bring. I accomplished this by using lighter colors that feel light when used together. Not only did I draw inspiration from other painted fish, but I was also inspired by the feeling of summer when I was choosing what colors to use. Words that describe my piece are: summer, light, and breezy. I chose this piece because it relates to my love of light feelings and it shows my growth from different colored pencil pieces.
Sarah Ye
Crane on Water
Watercolor
14.5" x 9"
My original intention was to create a piece that incorporates my culture. The crane is the centerpiece of my painting as that is the meaning of my last name. I also took inspiration from the painting of East-Asia. Some words that describe my piece include: pond, light and liquid. I chose this piece because it shows my process exploring watercolor and was the first time I incorporated my culture into my painting.
Sarah Ye
Story on Silk
Watercolor
15.35” x 11.42”
I made this piece with the intent to solidify my watercolor abilities. My own culture and the cultures of different countries in East-Asia influence my piece; the same elements that influenced my previous piece. Some words that describe this piece are: expensive, fancy, dressed-up. I chose to include this piece in this exhibition because it incorporates my theme of flowers and nature with my passion in asian culture.
Sarah Ye
Blooming Winter
Watercolor
9.5” x 6.6”
I wanted to refresh my watercolor abilities and learn how to create the exact colors I want using simple paint palettes. Because it was winter while I was making this piece, I wanted to show my anticipation and joy for the warmer weather to come. Words that represent my piece are: dreamy, floral, blooming. I chose this piece because it ties in the plants from my window to my other watercolor pieces.
Sarah Ye
Path to Serenity
Acrylic
10”x 15”
My goal for this piece was to create a peaceful, immersive landscape that invites the viewer in. I was inspired by serene mountain photography and impressionist painting styles, using soft colors to create depth and harmony. Words that describe this piece are serene, inviting, and dreamlike. I chose it because it reflects my love for nature and challenged me to balance warm and cool tones while conveying a sense of calm and adventure.
Sarah Ye
Tranquil picnic
Acrylic
30" x 40"
This painting really shows my growth and improvement. This still in progress painting evokes a sense of tranquility and quiet joy. Bamboo, one of my favorite subjects, adds a sense of flowing movement, while the wind chimes introduce a subtle note of joyful sound to the otherwise peaceful scene. For this piece I wanted to depict a watercolor style with acrylic paint. Starting this painting was incredibly difficult because of all the different elements it had. But once I began painting I couldn’t stop. I am insanely proud of the style and feeling I was able to capture with this painting.
Sarah Ye
Bamboo Sanctuary
Acrylic, bamboo, wood, multimedia
16" x 20"
All my life I’ve been interested in the way that 3D objects could blend with 2D images. What began as a simple, flat background evolved into a dynamic, layered 3D scene, incorporating a collection of my different knick knacks and scrapes I have gathered throughout the years
Zac Chesny
These artworks were picked because one, I feel that they are some of my best works. Two, because my classmates also felt they were my best works. And three, they were the pieces that made the exhibition symmetrical. The only reason that the pieces are arranged in this format is because it made the exhibition look nice and symmetrical. There is no order to which pieces to look at. It is just a showcase of my best work. The problem that I ran into while choosing what pieces go into my exhibition is that every single one of my pieces could have worked in the exhibition but I had to narrow it down to just these. There were many pieces that I really wanted to put in the exhibition but they just did not fit with what was already in it. These pieces are mostly me experimenting with perspective in different ways since I had not really done much with it before this class. The pencil on paper pieces are meant to be more technical and have little to no message behind them. The other two pieces were when I was using a medium that I was not familiar with and I feel that they turned out to look quite good in my opinion. My original intention was to include many more pieces from different mediums but they were either not my best works or they just did not fit with the rest of the pieces. All of these pieces are meant to be me experimenting with architectural drawing and seeing just what I can do. The pencil on paper drawings are meant to be more precise while the other pieces I allowed myself to be a bit more messy.
Zac Chesny
Medieval & Modern
Pencil on Paper
21.5cm x 28cm
2024
For this piece the goal was to make a structure that had a mix of both medieval and modern architectural styles. I took inspiration for multiple different architectural styles from medieval Europe and contemporary residential architecture. Medieval and Modern would describe this piece. This piece was chosen because it is the first piece that I made for Ib art and helps show how I started with my pieces.
Zac Chesny
Every Suburban City’s Downtown
Pencil on Paper
21.5cm x 28cm
2025
The intention for this piece was to make a street of a city's downtown area similar to Northville. The place that influenced this piece is downtown Northville. Some words that would describe this piece are home and calm. I chose this piece because I feel it is my most technical piece and it is my favorite out of the pieces that I have made in IB art.
Zac Chesny
Convenience Store That Sells Convenient Items at a Convenient Price For Your Convenience
Pencil on Paper
21.5cm x 28cm
2025
For this piece I wanted to work more with perspective but it ended up turning into an ironic comedy piece. My inspiration for this piece came from 7-Eleven convenience stores with their big signs up front and the posters that cover the front windows with tons of advertisements. Some words that would describe this piece are ironic and comedic. I chose this piece because it is one of the only pieces that I made where I also added some comedy to it.
Zac Chesny
Gas Leak
Paper Stabile
30cm x 30cm x 18cm
2024
The intention for this piece was to make a stable that looked like a house exploding. There were no outside sources that influenced this work; it was just a random idea that I had one day. Some words that would describe this piece would be explosion, architecture, and comedy. This piece was chosen because it is one of my favorites that I have made and I think the name of the piece is the best one that I have come up with.
Zac Chesny
Probably a Skyscraper
Pencil on Paper
23cm x 11.5cm
2025
The intention of this piece was to experiment more with perspective by drawing a birds eye view. The building that inspired me for this piece was the Empire State Building. Some words that describe this piece would be perspective, birds eye, and tower. I chose this piece because it helped show the different ways that I experimented with perspective over the course of IB art.
Zac Chesny
Mossy Brutalist Thing
Pencil & Colored Pencil on Paper
21.5cm x 28cm
2024
For this piece I wanted to experiment with two point perspectives and try to add a bit of color to one of my technical pieces. My inspiration for the piece was from abandoned brutalist buildings from the soviet era. Some words that describe this piece would be dilapidated and overgrown.I chose this piece because it is the only technical piece that I did where I added color and it is one of my favorite pieces that I have made.
Zac Chesny
Goofy Doodles
Pencil on Sticky Notes
35.5cm x 29cm
2025
My intention with this piece was to experiment with different mediums and try to create a building made up of sticky notes with different types of buildings on each sticky note. My inspiration for this piece was from how I like to write notes on sticky notes then put them all over my walls and I wanted to do something similar with this piece. Even though I don’t Like this piece very much I believe that it is the best example of the pieces I made that were not just technical.
Zac Chesny
I'm Sick of Drawing
Pencil on Paper
21.5cm x 28cm
2025
My intention of this piece was to just draw something and I would figure it out later. It ended up being a ruined building. My inspiration came from ruined buildings that have basically become piles of rubble. Some words that would describe this piece would be rubble and messy. I chose this piece because when I made it I had no motivation to do art. I just decided to throw out any precision and just scribble something on a page making this.
Isabela Martinez
My work is based on the general idea of being silly, mysterious and a little scary from my mother's point of view. The clowns wear makeup, they transform themselves into someone they don't want to be and they evade everything.
The clowns in my work follow the same game, I hide in what I really want to convey, but at the same time I give you a message, you decide what meaning to give it, go towards the abstract or towards what really makes you want to keep looking at the drawing, for me clowns are the way to express my emotions and capture them in a drawing, they are the way in which my ideas become clearer, because as one of them clowns often represent me, for having to be something I'm not or for having to pretend something I'm not just to pretend and feel something different. My theme is based on the representation that there are often things that are obvious but we don't want to see, and it also gives us a lesson, which is to pay more attention to understand. Don't forget to find the purple balloons in all my pieces
Isabela Martinez
Burning Out
Water color, black sharpie, Handmade paper.
25x38 cm
Winter
The objective of this piece is to create a visual representation that captures the essence of anger, incorporating elements such as fire, teeth, and a dark background. The incorporation of a purple balloon is also a key component of the design (my sign). Additionally, the concept involves the development of a cartoon-style drawing that aims to humorously depict a mischievous and cute baby face, juxtaposed with the concept of a mean baby.
Isabela Martinez
What Are We Feeling?
Water color, black sharpie, alcohol markers, handmade paper, black ink.
25x38 cm
Winter
The most difficult choice, the chef that makes you choose, that makes you take the decision between logic and feelings. Those ideas of not knowing which option is the right one, Choose what tastes best to you and don't make a mistake because there is no turning back. What are we feeling today?
Isabela Martinez
Look Me In The Eyes
Water color, Handmade paper.
25x38 cm
Summer-winter
What is happiness? What is the true face of emotion? We never fully see what's behind tired eyes or a cheerful smile, nor do we understand the shadows of happiness. If happiness is in the air, who feels the weight? The purpose of uncovering what's beneath the makeup is to reveal the truth often disguised as correctness. We must learn to see past appearances. My piece, "Look Me in the Eyes," explores this idea: even in a smile, the eyes reveal truths hidden in plain sight.
Isabela Martinez
Dear Friend
Teddy bear from the supermarket, crochet, buttons, yarn, fabric, yarn pompom
45x24 cm
Winter
Sleeping, playing, crying. are moments where a child hugs his favorite bear. This piece is my representation of the embrace to the emotions, and also the representation of calm, peace, security, the object that is there when we feel repressed, when we want to scream. The clown gives us the idea of the power in our emotions, absorbing the feelings and showing itself as another emotion.
Isabela Martinez
Hugging Our Shapes
Water color, Handmade paper.
25x38 cm
Winter
We are all shapes, each unique, a masterpiece in life’s art. Some are vibrant, bold, painting the world with vivid existence. Others are muted, elegant, casting shadows that speak. Despite our differences, we share hopes, fears, dreams, love, and sorrow. Our hearts beat in unison. Embrace individuality, not judge by form but by soul. We evolve, imperfections part of our masterpiece. Be authentic, unapologetic. Celebrate diversity, honor uniqueness—our shapes make us who we are.
Isabela Martinez
Game Of Life
Water color, watercolor paper, black ink.
20x14 cm
Fall-Winter
Player 1 against player 1, the internal fight of oneself having to choose between logic and emotions. I wonder who will win that everyday decision. Inspired by a street fighter game.
Isabela Martinez
The House Of Emotions
Water color, Handmade paper. Black ink, black posca marker.
28.5x23 cm
Winter
Have you ever considered the fate of the person in front of you, immersed in their thoughts, or the journey of the crowd, navigating their emotions? Have you ever considered it? The house of emotions can be a difficult place to navigate, but it's important to understand that it's a place we all end up in from time to time. I hope you find a way to navigate it with grace and that you are able to find peace and clarity in your own journey. But remember not to be there forever.
Alayna Ernst
Alayna is first and foremost a nerd (affectionately). She is enamored with learning and biological sciences which is especially handy because she is going into forensic science at university next year. The piece's main theme is a play on words about human anatomy and loving fun by Alayna as the “human's conditions throughout life”, which connects her sense of humor to her love of science and art.
The artworks before you are all made of paper along with graphite. They all showcase a play on words and show Alayna's technical abilities and coloring techniques when it comes to pencil drawings connecting all the drawings. The formatting of the showcase goes from the latest on the right and first one and the paper sculpture in the front is small enough to not overshadow the other images and it's the one with the most effort so it gets center stage. Unfortunately one of her favorite pieces did not make the cut but all the others that she enjoyed making did and looking back it's for the better because it would have stood out too much and drawn all the attention away from the other drawings and the sculpture which took her more time and effort than that one piece did. The context in which the viewer sees the art is unique to them however they should be able to see the play on words about the human body through the image presented to them. Alayna hopes that the viewers can understand the phrase that she is trying to illustrate with her work and that they can see the play on words by viewing each work. Overall she hopes that the viewer or viewers enjoy her artwork.
Alayna Ernst
Sweet Teeth (not for human consumption)
colored graphite and normal on paper
21.59cm, 15.24cm
Do you or a loved one love everything sweet? The image depicts human teeth as candy or a sweet that you normally would find at the bottom of your mom's or grandmother's purse. Seeing the teeth as sweet is what illustrates the phrase sweet teeth because the teeth are a sweet candy you can eat. This piece is colorful and somewhat creepy but cute at the same time so hopefully the viewer won't get the creeps. This was Alaynas First piece for this exhibition and it set the tone for how her drawing process and coloration would go.
Alayna Ernst
Oh no! My heart! It's broken!
Colored graphite lead and normal graphite on paper
21.59cm, by 20.32cm
Do you ever feel as if your heart has been ripped out of your chest? Well, this image depicts just that, a heart that is shattered by porcelain. Alayna wants you to feel the nostalgic pain you get when thinking of something sad that broke your heart. This piece was the second one she made and it started with how she shared how to make the shadows appear in her pieces making them more dramatic and more of a contrast to the lighter area
Alayna Ernst
DJ worm on repeat live from your ear
Paper, nail polish top coat, hot glue, Elmer's glue, scotch tape, pen
12.7cm, by 13.97 cm, by 8.89cm
You know that song you have stuck in your head, well now it's manifested as a physical common earthworm crawling out of your head wearing headphones and listening to that same song. This piece took about 3 days for Alayna to make and she nearly cried over it it is one of the works she is most proud of and it had so much work put into it that it had to make it into the show and the color pallet matches that of the rest of her works that she has made.
Alayna Ernst
The butterfly union meets in the stomach
Coffee, pen, Prismacolor pencils, paper, scotch tape
34.29cm, by 21.59cm
An old-timey-styled piece of a stomach cut in half with butterflies escaping with some 3d elements as butterflies that have escaped to our dimension and are now in color. This piece is more of a centerpiece so it stands out it's also the largest piece in her body of work and one of the more intricate details in her work setting it apart from the others. Along with higher contrasts in line work and coloration and values is what sets it apart from the others, really making it the centerpiece of her showcase.
Alayna Ernst
It's humerus when you think about it
Colored graphite lead and normal graphite on paper
29.21cm, by 12.7cm
Funny bone while not the strongest piece shows the bone known as the humerus which is a bone in the arm with the classically stereotypical funny face and glasses covering it making it look quite a hummus (pun intended.) This piece, while not all that strong, matches the theme and the style of the other drawings so it was added plus it shows the same level of shading and coloration techniques as the others.
Alayna Ernst
My tongue is tied up at the moment.
Colored graphite lead and normal graphite on paper
20.32cm, by 10.16cm
Tongue-tied, dripping with saliva, and rather unbelievable from the proportions and structure, illustrates what happens when you have a hard time speaking. Like most of her pieces Alayna is not going for correct anatomy but to merely depict a phrase through her eyes. This piece shows the shading techniques that she uses in a majority of her works and it has the same coloration techniques as the others as well, and as the most recent it contains a mixture of all the work before tying them all together in the end
Hailey Reineke
I selected these artworks because they best showcase my technical skills and embody the overarching theme of my body of work. Each piece exudes a coquette style, characterized by its dainty, feminine charm, and intricate details. I carefully designed my piece to visually complement the others, arranging it in a way that creates a harmonious flow. My goal was to guide the viewer's eyes seamlessly from one work to the next, ensuring each element contributes to a cohesive and engaging experience. My primary goal when creating these pieces was to craft visually pleasing works of art that captivate and inspire. It is the process of creation itself that fuels my passion—pouring hours into perfecting the smallest details and honing each element to reflect my artistic talent. For me, the true joy lies in celebrating the beauty of the piece rather than focusing on its deeper meaning. Throughout my artistic journey, I have drawn immense inspiration from talented artists on social media and from those in my personal life. The internet introduced me to the coquette aesthetic, and I was immediately captivated by its cutesy and delicate style. To me, it beautifully encapsulates everything I love, weaving it into one cohesive and enchanting theme. One artist who has profoundly influenced me is Karen Daigle, whose breathtaking oil paintings of still life showcase a harmonious blend of classic feminine elements and exceptional technical skill. Her work serves as a testament to the beauty of combining artistry and precision, resulting in truly mesmerizing pieces. In essence, my work is a celebration of beauty, craftsmanship, and inspiration, reflecting both my artistic journey and the influences that have shaped me.
Hailey Reineke
Constellations
Gouache and colored pencil
22,9 x 30,5 cm
December 11th, 2024
I found my inspiration for this piece through the saying "beauty is only skin deep" which suggests that while external appearance may be appealing, a person's character holds far greater significance. It’s a deeply personal concept, reflecting how imperfections—like blemishes—can come together to form something truly meaningful. I used constellations to symbolize this idea, showing how perceived flaws, much like stars, create beautiful and unique patterns when viewed as a whole. Through this artwork, I wanted to capture the message that real beauty isn’t about perfection; it’s about the character, strength, and story that lies beneath. It’s a celebration of finding the extraordinary within the ordinary.
Hailey Reineke
Quiet life
Gouache
22,9 x 30,5 cm
December 3rd, 2024
This piece is my symbolic autobiography, inspired by the breathtaking still-life oil paintings of Karen Daigle. Her ability to transform everyday objects into refined and elegant works of art deeply influenced me. I wanted to capture that same sense of beauty and sophistication while embedding a more personal narrative into my own creation. Through this artwork, I sought to use symbolism to tell my story, incorporating elements that reflect my identity and values. It was important for me to weave subtle meaning behind the visuals, embodying the essence of Karen Daigle’s artistry while making the piece uniquely my own. This work is both a tribute to her influence and an introspective exploration of who I am.
Hailey Reineke
Hearts vanity
Gouache and colored pencil
January 17th, 2025
This piece draws inspiration from the coquette aesthetic, a style that I find both captivating and elegant. My intention was to create a composition that embraces simplicity while highlighting a soft and refined femininity. By incorporating elements such as a heart-shaped dish, a hand mirror, and an eyeshadow palette, I aimed to convey a delicate yet polished representation of this aesthetic. The work serves as a subtle reflection of an aesthetic that I appreciate and its graceful charm.
Hailey Reineke
Angelina
Gouache and colored pencil
22,9 x 30,5 cm
February 4th, 2025
This artwork is a tribute to my best friend, inspired by the way I see her. My intention was to portray her beauty as it appears through my eyes and to reflect the essence of her personality. Each detail in the piece was chosen to celebrate who she is—her unique charm, strength, and spirit. It’s a deeply personal creation, meant to honor the connection we share and the inspiring presence she has in my life.
Safaat Hassan
These artworks are a storyline of a person, from whom the heart comes from, that finds themselves enraged when they look in the mirror. This rage leads them to lose their house in a house fire, which then sends them into a mode of distress. That distress leads them to run away from their problems. And when they do, they crash into a life that acts as a rude awakening. In that moment they sit and think about all of the terrible things they have done because of their own rage that stemmed from their heart. Regret would not stop pestering them, until they found hope in the sun that shone down on him giving him a new outlook on life.
These pieces included oil paints, photography, and clay, which are all relatively new to me. I’ve had some prior knowledge on how to use them professionally through watching others, but this gave me worry that I wouldn’t do good. After my first oil painting, The Rage that Caused the FIre, it has given me such a morale boost. I hadn’t expected myself to create such a unique piece for my first formal oil painting. After that, it was smooth sailing. I’ve had the whole storyline figured out by December, but I have to decide in the moment which emotions I connect with the most.
This exhibition is portrayed in a circular manner, from which the heart is in the center. The heart is where most of the emotions or reactions come from for this person, and the veins and arteries are meant to show that. The circular placement of all the pieces is meant to show that this is very cyclical. I am the main subject, but the viewer is supposed to recognize themselves in this cyclical movement rage, to regret, to optimism, since it’s a very humane experience. This exhibition may be more exaggerated than most people’s experience, but it is still meant to show it as a whole.
Safaat Hassan
From the Heart
Air-dry Clay, Acrylic Paint, Mod-Podge, Wire, Tin Foil
12 cm x 8 cm
February 28, 2025
In times of loss, the heart acts as the relay station for the body’s responses. From the Heart is the center-piece to this exhibition; it’s where all of the other pieces stem from
Safaat Hassan
The Rage that Caused the Fire
Photography
28 cm x 35 cm
February 11, 2025
Rage, rage, rage. I fight fire with fire, and that is where I am now: believing that the burning of fire will tame my rage. I have forgotten that my skin still feels pain. I feel a sting, in which I lose grip of my power.
Safaat Hassan
House on Fire
Oil paint, Canvas
28 cm x 35 cm
February 5, 2025
Oops, One more mistake added to the list. The hot, hot rage has touched my floors and spread, maybe even onto me. The house is on fire. I had to get out, there was no more redemption, no more saving. It’s time to drive away, clear my head, and start anew. Maybe rage won’t follow me so closely this time around.
Safaat Hassan
Before the Crash
Oil paint, Canvas
28 cm x 35 cm
February 27, 2025
When your mind is in a daze, you tend to forget about what is in front of you. You stare at the past, not realizing obstacles still stand in front of you. And with that, the crash begins. Face frozen with fear, knowing there’s nothing else to do, hand in front of your face, as if a hand could ever be a shield. The crash is inevitable, you just have to experience it.
Safaat Hassan
Roadkill
Oil Paint, Canvas
35 cm x 28 cm
January 13, 2025
What have I done? With my rage, I was given a domineering power. I am an exploiter of that power, and now ran through an innocent. Must this be my rude awakening, my slap in the face, my reality check. Me and my destructive nature will be the death of the world around me.
Safaat Hassan
Regret
Photography
35 cm x 28 cm
January 26, 2025
I sit alone, with another parasite growing in me: regret. It’s eating me alive, tearing apart my insides. Had I not killed something that was so important to someone else, would I be in such pain? If I had not fueled a fire, would my life turn out differently?All regret comes chasing at me like a bull as if I am wearing red.
Safaat Hassan
The Sun Shone Down Even Through the Thickest of Clouds
Photography
28 cm x 35 cm
March 10, 2025
During the darkest days, I still see the silver-lining that outlines the clouds. Light has always been more powerful than the darkness, and the sun will shine down even through the thick clouds. And with that, there is hope for a sunnier day.
This exhibition explores the unsettling yet captivating theme of romantic cannibalism, a concept that delves into the obsessive, consuming nature of love. Each piece was carefully selected for its ability to embody this duality - beauty intertwined with horror, elegance contrasted with grotesquery. The works chosen were the most meaningful and meticulously crafted, representing the strongest visual and conceptual expressions of my theme. While the subject matter is provocative, it is not intended to romanticize or trivialize the real-life horrors of cannibalism. Instead, it seeks to evoke a visceral reaction, promoting viewers to question the intensity of human emotions and the darker facets of love.The arrangement of the pieces is deliberate, designed to create a visually cohesive yet unsettling experience. Each artwork contributes to the overarching narrative, drawing the viewer deeper into the concept. The presentation emphasizes the tension between attraction and repulsion, inviting the audience to engage with the discomfort and intrigue of the subject matter.Creating this body of work was both challenging and rewarding. Narrowing down the selection was difficult, as each piece held personal significance. However, the final choices best convey the intended message, blending symbolism, texture, and composition to evoke a sense of unease. The concept of romantic cannibalism emerged from a reflection on the obsessive, all-consuming nature of love, inspired by historical and mythical references, such as vampire lore, which parallels the idea of consuming another to immortalize emotion. My goal is to provoke a strong emotional response - disgust, curiosity, or even fascination. I want viewers to feel unsettled, to question what they see, and to reflect on the darker, often unspoken aspects of human connection. Through this exhibition, I aim to challenge conventional notions of beauty, presenting a narrative that is as disturbing as it is compelling. The themes of consumption, obsession, and immortality are woven throughout the works, connecting them to both historical and contemporary interpretations of desire. By displaying these pieces, I hope to create an immersive experience that lingers in the minds of the audience, leaving them with a lasting impression of the complexities and contractions inherent in human emotion.
Kenzie Bologna
Aortatee
Photography
2024
This piece reimagines a romantic dinner scene, replacing the expected with the grotesque—a drink of intestines. The dramatic lighting draws the viewer in, amplifying the unsettling contrast between elegance and horror. Chosen for its ability to captivate and disturb, it challenges conventional notions of beauty and comfort.
Peristalsis
Acrylic paint, oil paint, cardboard, craft foam
2025
This piece explores the tension between allure and repulsion, using abstraction to evoke visceral unease. Inspired by Kim Jakobsson’s unsettling aesthetic, it juxtaposes grotesque ambiguity with a captivating exterior, embodying "romantic cannibalism"—beauty masking decay. Chosen for its disquieting engagement, it challenges perception and comfort.
Thrombus
Photography
2024
This work draws on the symbolism of pomegranates as the fruit of the dead, their flesh-like skin and blood-like seeds evoking visceral imagery. Set against a candlelit dinner scene, it merges romance with the macabre. Chosen for its powerful symbolism and striking composition, it blurs the line between beauty and decay.
Viscera
Photography
2025
This work contrasts the elegance of a teacup with the grotesque imagery of body parts, evoking themes of romantic cannibalism. The pristine snow background heightens the unsettling subject, blending beauty with horror. Chosen for its striking color palette and ability to convey disturbing allure, it challenges the viewer’s perception of the familiar.
Zoe Skotanis
Each of these artworks were selected because I personally enjoyed them, but I also wanted to share them with the viewers at the exhibition. My body of work for the exhibition consists of eight original pieces varying from pencil to colored pencil. My theme for these selected pieces is the things I enjoy and bring my happiness. All of these pieces are very personal to me and I am excited to show them off at the exhibition. I would say I did an excellent job with my body of work, and everything looks right together. I worked to distribute smaller and bold pieces amongst the rest to avoid clutter. Although having a short time crunch for these pieces because of school, soccer, and extracurriculars, each piece has been thought through, brainstormed, edited, and reflected on. I am very proud of this body of work and have exceeded my personal expectations when it comes down to it.
Hug
Pencil, Paper
January 7, 2025
This piece was based off of a photo of me and my dog milo. I am seen hugging him in my arms as he falls asleep. This piece is my favorite of the exhibition and I had a lot of fun drawing it. It’s really moving and loving just by looking at it, and it brings me joy. I think the small details really pull this piece together in itself.
Milo
Paper, Pencil
February 8, 2025
I really wanted to capture a piece of my dog, milo. This was a drawing based on a photograph that I took of him. I struggled trying to get him to look at my camera, but with the help of a teat he did just fine. His hair is really shaggy and messy, as he just had a really fluffy and messed up haircut. I tried to capture the messiness of his hair using different pencil strokes with different pressures and values. I chose to add this piece because it suited my body of work both message wise and aesthetically. Drawing Milo is one of my favorite things to draw, and I couldn’t help but smile when making it.
Reading Room
Pencil, Paper, Eraser
January 17, 2025
My initial brainstorm of this piece was to create a room where I could read in. I love reading and during class I was thinking about going home after a long day of school and cozying up to a book. So I imagined my ideal reading space, sketched it out, and made it into an exhibition piece. The sunlight peeking through the window is my favorite detail of this piece and adding highlights to the darkness of the room. I also am interested in interior design, so designing a room was really fun for me to do and allowed me to get creative. I chose to add this piece because it looked really interesting. It is composed of small details around the room that make the piece intriguing.
Vignette Vase
Pencil, prisma colored pencils, paper, eraser
February 14, 2025
After discovering my prisma colored pencils during a deep clean of my room, I became inspired to use them. I really wanted a vibrancy and contrast to this piece so I did that by adding lighter colors in the center of the flower, almost like it was blooming out of the darkness around it, like a vignette. The lego flowers in my room really inspired me to make flowers as the main subject of the piece. The colors flow well with my body of work and it brings all the vibrancy from my pieces together.
Crash in December
Pencil, colored pencils, paper, eraser, posca acrylic paint marker
December 29, 2024
After getting into a car accident on my way home from soccer one night, I suddenly became scared to drive. The accident left me kind of hazy for a couple weeks, and I couldn’t stop remembering the moments before and after the crash. With my mind constantly flowing of the visions, I decided to create a piece revolving around my accident, moments before the crash. The detail and coloring of the piece pulls everything together, and creates a nice balance in my body of work.
Elissa Younes
The theme of my presented work focuses on human emotions and the fluctuations of these feelings that manifest before, during, and “after” the grieving process. These heightened human emotions that I have painted also follow my theme of accepting yourself and all the emotions you come with. I tend to use heavy body acrylic paint to visualise the emotions that I and many others have felt, creating these pieces of art using my most gut wrenching or tranquil feelings into beautiful pieces of work. My work is meant for the viewer to empathize and see my perspective on life. All of my current works have moved into a more sophisticated and semi-realistic style that compliments my progression as an artist since starting my art journey almost seven years ago. My goal with creating art is to explore humanity's most beautiful and unique moments in an eccentric, emotional fashion.
Cadmium Yellow
Medium: Acrylic paint, Stretched canvas
Size: 25.5cm by 20cm
Date: December 12th, 2024
This painting is about love and happiness in a more mystical sense with the floating, upright hair of the original inspiration (a past piece) and the monochromatic yellows to boot. My goal is to see just how love might look personified. Love is a fleeting feeling of pure and absolute happiness that is easy to find, yet hard to keep. In the end, I chose to incorporate this painting because in between grief, love, and happiness will always be there behind it all for those who are willing to find it.
Cobalt Blue (114)
Medium: Acrylic paint, Stretched canvas
Size: 30cm by 30cm
Date: January 19, 2025
The subject standing under a shower is a metaphor about keeping grief and tears hidden away from others, with this subject hiding these tears as water streaks down their face. While water hangs off of your eyelashes, your eyelids become heavy, which to me, mimics just how grief and sadness can cloud your world. This piece is for my late cat, and how I feel even now about her passing. I included this painting because sadness is an important emotion and without it, you cannot feel happiness and love.
Chartreuse Green
Medium: Acrylic paint, Wooden canvas
Size: 25.5cm by 20cm
Date: January 20, 2025
The subject's hair seeps into the grass like streams of water where they came from; Nature. This piece is supposed to reflect on the life you have and how moments of tunnel vision and selfishness consume a lot of western culture and affect how people as a society work together. This painting is supposed to be seen both ways, as it can show the subject being consumed by greed and the social isolation that is so present in grief, sadness, and hardship, all prevalent themes in this exhibition.
Crimson Red
Medium: Acrylic paint, Stretched canvas
Size: 90cm by 30cm
Date: February 2, 2025
The painting is a symbol of losing yourself and falling into a black and white mentality in fits of anger and confusion. The sea of red paint mixed in with shapes and outlines is what I envision my own mind to look at when I feel these emotions. The subject's expression on the bottom right is exaggerated and distorted into blending in the background it rests on. I chose to include this piece because not only does its color palette and expression fit in, but the personal meaning resonates with the meanings of my exhibition as a whole.
Carbon Black
Medium: Acrylic paint, Wooden canvas
Size: 30cm (diameter)
Date: February 28, 2025
This piece is based on the anger I feel built up inside of my head, like a pressure you can never quell, only subdue overtime. While simple in nature, this piece reflects the rage and anguish I feel on days my emotions spiral and my anxieties thicken. My main inspiration for painting this compelling piece is to bring light even to a human's most ugly feeling emotions. This piece is the focal point of my exhibition because it shows the culmination of all these complicated emotions into one faceless piece.
Carmine Red
Medium: Acrylic paint, Stretched canvas, Ink markers
Size: 30cm by 30cm
Date: September 10, 2024
This painting represents not fading into what you aren't and overcoming anxiety. Everyone has anxiety, but people who struggle the most will truly understand the hardship of not letting it take control over your life and relationships with the people you love. That is why this painting is important to my exhibition and the themes of heightened human emotions and acceptance of yourself.