May 03, 2025 Image She/HerJunior, Fine Arts, Drawing and PaintingFine Arts Merit ScholarshipPrinceton, MN How/why did you choose your major?I chose the Painting and Drawing major because the program aligns perfectly with what I want to develop in my practice and ultimately share with the world. Painting, in particular, is where I lose myself most—differently from any other medium, this major gives me the space to refine my technical skills while also challenging me conceptually. Describe the work you submitted for merits.My art explores the connections we as humans have the capabilities to make, be it between people, places, or objects. The work I submitted for merits centers on this a conversation of connection, for better and for worse.Why did you decide to come to 51±¬ÁϹÙÍø?As soon as I toured 51±¬ÁϹÙÍø I knew I needed to go here, the people I met and the campus itself were everything I could ask for and more. What's next for your practice? Anything you're really excited to make?This summer- I've made a goal to make 40 plein air paintings and I'm very eager to start the process. I hope to complete a mixture of landscapes, portraits, and still life.Favorite thing about college life (so far)?The independence, I love my family so very much and I visit when I can but I love the independence and freedom I've found living on my own in Minneapolis. What inspires you?my family and friends, often they are the very subjects for my work but side from that they are my number one supporters and advocates and I couldn't be more grateful.Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?Chess. Soooo much chess. My girlfriend handmade me a chess set as a gift although she had no idea how to play. I taught her- and beat her just ONE time before she absolutely destroyed me FIVE times in a row. Obviously it gave me some incentive to practice and study theory and so i've been playing whenever I can!