Over the past two years in IB, I have created many works of art and explored a variety of media. I have gained a clearer understanding of the underpinnings of painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media projects. My goal in art is to challenge others to appreciate the visual image presented and sense the emotions hidden behind each brush stroke or the placement of each wooden block.
During my second year of the IB program, my works have centered on the theme of communication. Communication can take the form of a letter, a song, phone conversations between cities, or lifelines on the hands of my friends.
My work is mainly based on the exploration of color, texture, and shape. Louise Nevelson has a great influence in my sculpture pieces. Her media, which is the same as mine (wood) allowed me to look at her work as guidance and inspiration. Nevelson’s work showed me the potential of sculpture as an expressive art form.
Many times, I would have to stop myself and look at my work from faraway asking myself if it makes the statement I am trying to communicate. Each brush stroke and each woodblock I single out allows others to view who I am and where I come from through my art.
Another major influence is the relationship I have with my best friends. Their companionship shaped my work to focus on the means of communication. The ability to be heard and understood is something I value deeply with my friends in high school. Their faith and confidence in my artistic skills made me realize that I could carve out my own path in the art world. The memories I shared with them will accompany me this fall when I attend Art Institute of Chicago.