WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship

I currently give back to under-resourced communities through visual arts as a fine arts teaching assistant at ArtStation Gallery, I work with tweens during summer camp sessions, helping them with arts projects like painting, poetry, music, and sewing. ArtStation Gallery is located in Stone Mountain, GA where about 85% of the population is Black. In our communities, kids are often pushed towards athletics for financial freedom and success, but I want to show they can showcase their visual arts talents as well. As an African-American male, I was offered several football scholarships to cover my college expenses. But I turned them down because I knew I wouldn't be as fulfilled as I am now with painting and drawing. I was fortunate that my parents saw my artistic talents early on. They drove me almost 45 minutes each way to the Spruill Arts Center in North Atlanta when I was in the 6th grade to build my visual art skills. I want to be that person for other children, offering local classes at an organization near my home in Lithonia, GA, where the poverty level is 34%. I plan to volunteer my time weekly to teach visual arts and discuss pathways to sustainable careers or entrepreneurship. Instead of living on campus, I plan to live at home and save money while completing my last two years at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, GA. This scholarship will relieve a huge financial burden given that my potential out-of-pocket expenses are expected to be $20,000 for the 2024-2025 school year. My mother, Dorothy is currently freelancing with bookkeeping gigs, and my father, Lamont is an entrepreneur of a landscape business with seasonal revenue. But they are very supportive of me finishing my Bachelor's in Fine Arts at SCAD. Additionally, this scholarship has inspired me to start a YouTube Channel to teach the different techniques I am learning at SCAD. I still use YouTube channels to this day, to learn different painting techniques in combination with what I learn at SCAD. I've even taught a homemade canvas tutorial for painting on my Instagram page that was one of my highest-performing reels - https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/ Thank you for considering my application. Through your support, I look forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in under-resourced communities, fostering their creative talents, and opening doors to future artists.

Currently, I design and build fine concept furniture at my university's woodshop which I have been doing for exactly a year now. Before this I have been perfecting my woodworking skills by working under a master carpenter helping him build furniture for his clients and taking classes at community college. In total I have been designing furniture for over 3 years now and am just starting to bring my designs to life through skilled craftsmanship. Besides this, my artistic focus has been saturated by film photography and photographic design, which I have been honing my skills in for over 5 years. The intensive, and creative process of developing film and making prints in a darkroom has always intrigued me, being such a surreal, meditative process which you control the final design and outcome of. I have also dabbled in graphic design, but am now just starting my creative pursuit in architectural design which I have begun by practicing and learning 3D modeling and CAD software. Sustainability is a big part of my work which I constantly educate myself and focus on. I prioritize sustainability by using only salvaged or sustainably forested wood in my furniture projects and develop my film with coffee and other natural substances instead of using harsh and toxic chemicals. I am also a recently certified LEED Green Associate and if I'm able to gather funding for graduate school, I will earn a certificate in sustainability and focus my architectural practice in sustainability and green building, which I value most. As a disabled Latino from an immigrant family, I also emphasize accessibility and cultural heritage in design. My mission is to positively impact others lives through purpose driven art, design, and architecture. This is what I hope to contribute to my community and the world at large. I don’t simply want to make plans for buildings and recreate what has already been done, but rather incorporate the knowledge and skills I may attain at university into a multidisciplinary, creative career path that produces innovative, environmentally conscious, and once again, meaningful work that may positively impact others lives. To change the world through the art of meaningful design. That is what I aspire to do. This scholarship would help get me one step closer to achieving this by helping pay for the high price of tuition, allowing me to further develop my knowledge/skills on my creative career path.

Video games are becoming the forefront of entertainment, surpassing films and television. They offer a superior form of escapism and innovate in storytelling and engagement. Hundreds of passionate gamers and artists, including myself, pursue careers creating immersive experiences for the world. As a first-generation college student, I plan to write and illustrate a video game story to inspire the next generation of artists and gamers. The rise of AI art and sweeping industry layoffs have made the future uncertain. It would be understandable to consider a different career not threatened by artificial intelligence. However, I do not have that choice. I have one year left before graduating with a bachelor's degree, and I have invested too much in my art to give up now. I will push forward, designing characters, outfits, props, and worlds. I will draw from my life, with perseverance as a central theme. In my story, a young girl who is a witch loses both her parents and faces the threat of destruction. Her obstacles are immense, with her background stacking the odds against her. Fortunately, she meets friends who support her throughout her journey. While the story is still in development, its core lesson comes from my experience of having no choice but to make the best of a challenging situation. I am blessed to have family and friends who support me. There have been many times when I felt like giving up due to the rising cost of education, industry layoffs, and the impact of AI. However, I still have the opportunity to make my dream work. When I publish my story within a video game, I aim to motivate others not to turn away from their passionate careers but to see things through to the end, even under daunting circumstances. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a diverse and inclusive artistic community where everyone has the chance to express their creativity. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to inspire others to persevere and pursue their dreams, regardless of obstacles. Artificial intelligence lacks human experiences. Through my art, I want to show that our backgrounds and challenges can become sources of strength and inspiration, leading to a rich, more vibrant world of storytelling and creativity.

Whatever I do for a living, be it as a guitarist or music producer, I will never forget one of my goals, which is to contribute to the battle against drug addiction. In San Francisco, people take drugs to forget and detach themselves from feeling painful emotions. I know many peers who can’t party or dance without drinking a whole bottle of vodka and getting high on 50 mg edibles. Maybe the playlists just aren't groovy enough. As stereotypical as party life can get, the dangers of overdose are ignored so frequently that they're just normalized like school shootings are. Because every year, I hear about the kids my age dying from overdoses. The hippie scene was iconic in the 70s. But I still see the damages of all that drug use linger to this day, especially in the Haight district. Music and drugs shouldn’t go together. So at this point, I told myself I wanted to create music that could replace drugs. They can laugh at me all they want, but it's the fent, meth, trank, jules, LSD, 50 mg edibles, and hard liquor that y’all rely on to party. “You don’t need Hard Liquor to dance like a madman, because when I started moving, y’all joined in!” And I know damn well those cavemen who danced around their fires weren’t taking some acid with edibles. Anyone could understand music, despite what language, identity, or political opinion you hold. Whenever peers ask me how to get better at guitar, I tell them to learn how to dance. But not on any substance. I mean, how do you enjoy an experience when you’ll just black out and forget about it next morning? How do you play any instrument on stage half unconscious? How do you get home safely without being a bigger target of robberies, hit-and-runs, murders, or sexual assault? When I gig, I want to connect with my audience WHEN THEY ARE SOBER. I want to really get to know these people and understand them. I want them to live the next day and talk about music, just like I do. Because that is how we truly dive into each other and establish human connection. Through the music, not poison. My path will require trial and error. But I will continue to experiment—not with chemicals but with sound. And for sure not alone.

I want people to look at me and know that everything is possible. While I was growing up, I always saw the same characteristics in performers. They usually fit a certain criteria when it comes to their appearance. As a chubby, small, Hispanic girl, I never saw any of their physical attributes in myself. Because of that, I didn't feel like I was enough to be on the stage. But I had such a determination to make it known that I, too, can be that person performing. Theatre should be something that everyone can feel included in, regardless of what makes them who they are; such as the color of their skin, their sexuality, their culture, and everything else that makes those people human. I've never seen someone on stage or on film that looks similar to me and I believe that there must be several people out there that must feel the same way as I do. That's why I perform. My motivation is to heal those that have been hurt for this reason and raise the next generation to be strong. I perform to encourage people, especially younger artists, and prove they can do anything they set their mind to. Even if you're plus sized and Hispanic. When I'm older, my goal is to have a well-rounded knowledge of the industry, in order to be a Broadway Director. This has been a dream of mine because I've always wanted to give those who never thought they could have an opportunity, and give them that chance to be great. I believe that it will create a world where this lifestyle would be more reachable. This will change the world for the better. I fear I need more aid to pursue my attendance at my dream school, The Boston Conservatory at Berklee. My aunts and uncles had their Visas approved and are now staying with us. That results in 10 people living in our 3 bedroom house. My father is the sole provider of my family and already makes below the national average with the amount he is given as a 100% Disabled Veteran. Adding on to that, he is retiring this year which would make his income decrease even more. We no longer have enough money to buy most of our basic needs, let alone pay for college. It would be an honor to continue my love for art.

My artistic approach is “If it hasn’t been done yet, then I’m doing it.”As a creative, I relentlessly pursue knowledge. I am invested and eager to use my talents within every creative discipline. As a Black woman, I am indebted to support my community and other communities of color by creating resources. My focus is on expanding my horizons and stepping out of my comfort zone to become a multidisciplinary professional. Leading me to a career that encompasses my passions for creative direction in both fashion and music, alongside my commitment to sustainability, social impact, and community engagement. I will create a sustainable fashion brand that not only creates clothes but also conducts research and studies dedicated to finding ways to improve sustainability. I plan to establish a career in fashion and then transition to other industries such as music and film. There are so many opportunities for black women in fashion and it is still an underrepresented environment for us. What motivates me is the drive and desire to be the precedent. No one in my family studied art, or fashion, went to school out of state, or paid for their education on their own. It is a privilege to me therefore my goal is to achieve success, not for myself but to pay it all forward and give back. It is a dream of mine to create a scholarship and mentorship program for underprivileged artists and creatives whose journeys have been like my own. My main motivation is to ensure that my successors have more than enough access, resources, and information to have even greater success than they could imagine. I want to contribute to this new way of looking at life through the lens of art; through fashion, film, music, and production. Art is not just something we consume, it is who we are, it is what we see, it is what’s around us, it is what we feel, it’s what we think, it’s what we share, that’s what I want my work to express. Ultimately, my intention is, and always will be, to create opportunities and provide exposure to those who represent who I am and who I have been. I want to erase the stigmas that come with choosing creativity and make a meaningful lasting impact on the people around me. That motivates me and makes me most eager to embark on this journey.

My biggest passion in life is to pursue a career in Illustration, specifically focusing in the field of children’s books. I am a firm believer that there is magic within literature. To make a positive impact in the industry that has given me so much joy as a child would be my biggest goal. There is a strong dedication that I have for making books accessible. It is important for knowledge to be gained during every step of development. The affordance of books, especially illustrated literature is incredible and everyone is entitled to experience the joy of seeing two of the best art forms intertwined to create a story. When I was younger illustrated books opened the door to brand new ideas for me. Art within books was a way for me to truly connect to things or people that otherwise wouldn’t have felt real to me. Book Illustrations has created such a magical gateway for every child to have the capability to become hungry for learning. Unfortunately, in recent years we have seen a plethora of books get banned in the United States. Books about intersectionality, race, gender, class consciousness and cultural diversity. Most of these books are meant for young children, they are vital tools for them to learn about the world from the safety of their classroom or home. We as future artists and educators have seen how little our government cares for the pursuit of knowledge. I want to be part of the artists that are taking action using their work to impact the youth of the future and provide them with the different perspectives and opportunities they need to grow in terms of literacy. Children deserve to exercise their critical thinking, they deserve to be able to grow their creativity and most importantly enjoy, as well as, relate to the stories they are reading. Through my illustrations I wish to inspire younger generations to seek truth within storytelling. Books are able to connect youth around the world, even more so now in the digital age than ever before. This sort of connection fosters the necessity of community in every aspect of their lives. It is important to aid kids in learning that diversity is not meant to divide people but rather an invitation to see the world around us for what it was meant to be and the beauty that resides in each of us.

Growing up without formal exposure to art and discovering its healing power inspires me to create more opportunities, particularly for those in rural communities and others lacking access. Seeing the joy, the self-confidence, and the healing power of art when I taught nature illustration workshops in a marine national park in small communities, has further strengthened my resolve to help others find the outlet that I’ve found in art. My hometown is a fishing village of 500 inhabitants, in Baja California Sur, Mexico, where electricity is only provided for 6 hours a day; nature and drawing were my primary companions. The wilderness of my surroundings was both my playground and my learning lab. As there were no art classes in my community, I started to draw with pens I found around the house, and, through these haphazard resources, I found a unique freedom in expressing ideas on a blank sheet of paper full of possibilities. My curiosity to learn more about Mother Nature and to convey this through my art grew within me, and it is why I chose my first bachelor's degree in Aquacultural Bioengineering. As I gained insight about how natural resources have been exploited, I started recognizing how art could help people learn complex scientific processes, appreciate, and recognize the importance of preserving their ecosystems. Additionally, my sister’s death taught me the healing aspects of art and how that is essential to growth. Sketchbook journaling was something I did with my sister growing up and, when she died, I returned to that place to process my grief. When art is our companion during times of loss, we can transform vulnerability into strength. My passion is to provide that opportunity to others. My desire to study art became even stronger during this time, as I wanted to learn to improve my artistic technique in order to fulfill this vision. So, I gathered the courage to trust my intuition and am now pursuing a bachelor's degree in “Drawing and Painting with an Illustration emphasis” at Laguna College of Art and Design. The positive impact I want to create in the world is to inspire and create opportunities for those with limited access to art, especially in rural communities. I believe that everyone can tap into their creativity and refute self-limiting beliefs, by understanding the world around us and within us.

During my senior year of high school, I'm embracing the leadership that I've always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS, UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I've picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I'm looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement and also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I'm looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

For as long as I can remember I have loved music. From learning to play the violin at 4 to learning my love for singing, performing, and writing music in high school to pursuing it further at Hofstra University, music has been the one thing I know I want to pursue in life. As a performer, I love music’s ability to transport audiences to another world, away from the struggles of everyday life. That's why I would love the opportunity to do the same. Living in NY all my life I've always loved going to Broadway shows and it would be amazing to do what those performers do, spreading joy through music. I want to be able to take people on a magical journey, sharing stories and tales of love, tragedy, happiness, and everything in between through music. As a songwriter, I aspire to create music that resonates with others. I hope to release my album and EP very soon. When writing I tend to take from my own experiences, especially when I don't even realize it. I love how music can connect generations and people. One single song can be the favorite of two very different people, yet music is their commonality. Music helps people through their lives, whether they are sad or happy. I want to create music that people can turn on when they're feeling down or just need to dance it out. As a singer, I just want to do what I love. However, my ambitions extend beyond personal success. I plan to establish my own record label. I want to create opportunities for artists of color to pursue their dreams. Making a living in the arts is hard enough, especially for people of color and I want to give artists a chance to express themselves and be heard by others. I want to help facilitate the opportunities that I hope to provide for myself. My record label would help them create music that they love and allow them to express themselves the way they want to. One day at a time, I get closer to my dreams and I just the opportunity to share that with others and help them reach their dreams too.

Art holds the potential to revolutionize the world, particularly through the lens of abstraction. This challenges conventional modes of thinking and perception. By bridging the gap between abstraction and human thought, pushing the boundaries of aesthetic theory, and emphasizing the role of abstract art in critical thinking and problem-solving, artists like me can enact significant change. Abstraction, by its nature, prompts viewers to engage with concepts beyond literal representation, encouraging them to delve into the depths of their own interpretations and emotions. This process allows people to fosters creativity but also enhances critical thinking skills by requiring viewers to discern patterns, make connections, and think abstractly. Moreover, abstract art has the power to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, fostering empathy and understanding across diverse perspectives. Through its universal language of form and expression, abstract art encourages viewers to connect with the shared human experience, promoting a sense of unity and compassion. By pushing the boundaries of aesthetic theory, artists can challenge traditional notions of beauty and meaning. This opens up new avenues for exploration and discovery. Through experimentation with form, color, and space, artists can inspire viewers to expand their perceptions and embrace the richness and complexity of the world around them. The true essence of humanity. Ultimately, the goal of changing the world through art is to catalyze meaningful action and positive change. By harnessing the power of abstraction to engage viewers in critical thinking and empathy, artists can empower individuals to think more deeply, feel more profoundly, and act more compassionately, laying the groundwork for a brighter and more harmonious future.

High school was a bumpy ride. In my early years, I got caught up in rebellious behavior, hanging out with the wrong crowd, and neglecting the importance of education. Unfortunately, my involvement in choir became a target for mockery my sophomore year, leading me to make the unfortunate decision of dropping out. Little did I know, this choice would lead me into a dark and isolated place. In a moment of desperation one night in March, I found myself sending a heartfelt prayer to the Lord, pleading for a sign. Miraculously, that very night, I attended a youth group session, setting the stage for an unexpected, yet much needed, transformative journey. As I started to get involved in the church, connecting with the youth group and serving our church, while fulfilling, there remained a lingering emptiness within me. Eager to fix this emptiness, I sought guidance from a trusted leader, who suggested that I consider joining a community group. This advice led me to the discovery of the worship team. As time passed, I noticed a remarkable change in how the youth connected with praise and worship. They started expressing themselves without hesitation, something I wouldn't have expected to happen, especially not in just six months. I realized I wanted to use music to connect with the next generation. My goal wasn't limited to worship; it included all kinds of music. I saw that music, in different forms, could help people release emotions, grow personally, and bring communities together. I want to provide a platform for young people to experience the healing power of music. I plan to achieve this by arranging laid-back weekly events like karaoke nights and hosting yearly talent shows. Although these activities may seem small, they are crafted to nurture a love for music and create a supportive community for youth with hidden talents. I want to create a community that embraces different types of music to help the youth grow and give them hope and confidence through the universal language of music. In conclusion, my journey is a testament to the sincere impact music can have on an individual's life. Through this testimony, I hope to inspire, uplift, and guide the youth on a musical journey of self-discovery and empowerment, ensuring that the power and magic of music lives in their hearts for years to come.

I am dedicated to my education and my future business to be a self-employed artist. I am motivated to push and change for students of low-income and Latinx origin. Being a role model for future generations is similar to my Hispanic heritage. I challenge the social norm and barriers created by money showing others to pursue their dreams. I know how it could discourage people, but I want to show that nothing is impossible—Risk-taking myself for the sake of continuing change in bringing representation. My culture allowed me to see the big picture of myself and why it's important. It's powerful to show your roots and embrace them fully and it inspires me to create art. Showing who I am and whom I come from with my culture empowers others to be heard in the process. Allowing my voice on behalf of my heritage inspires me to create my future art career. It shows who we are in the world and why representation is essential. I am abstract thinking and fearless in my approach to my artwork to get to what I believe is right. When I am faced with a challenge I problem-solve and show dedication to get through it. I continue to pursue my dreams and take advantage of the opportunities I have been given. I am proud to identify with the Hispanic community. Leading the individuality of my culture shows what I can accomplish. With also am a role model for future generations with my heritage to reach for their dreams. I pushed my education to get rigorous classes to show what I can do. Coming from that background allows me to push toward my very best in my education. Shedding light on my hardworking community to get me where I am today. I want to be a role model to my siblings for being Hispanic and successful. Take advantage of opportunities and be open-minded to work hard toward the future. Also inspired others of my youth being of Hispanic origin that accomplishing your goals is not impossible and touching others to reach their dreams. Making my family proud of my success in an unfair world. Risk-taking myself for the sake of continuing change in bringing representation. My culture allowed me to see the big picture of myself and to be proud of who I am and what I will succeed in.

Every morning begins with the ringing of my alarm clock, the weather app, the eye-catching packaging of the breakfast cereal, and the various products that await usage. It is within these infinite decisions made by teams of creatives that contributed to the everyday conveniences of our lives that we find graphic design and it is a craft that I find myself enthusiastically pursuing. My name is Sun Mun, a third-year student studying at the Maryland Institute College of Art and I aspire to be a graphic and product designer, striving to make a positive contribution to our creative world. Great design, when executed correctly, is to go unnoticed. Great design should simply integrate with one’s routine effortlessly, regardless of age, size, or ability. It revolves around the framework of problem-solving, collaboration, iteration, and creativity. I fell in love with this field’s strong emphasis on accessibility and the opportunity to put yourself in the shoes of those who live in the extremes whether that be physical differences or disabilities to be inclusive to all. Design is a universal language and a pivotal creative tool to communicate ideas, influence action, and evoke emotions. I enjoy the collaborative aspect of design and its natural capacity to foster an environment that encourages creativity and communication between diverse groups of people from all backgrounds. Due to the modularity of design, I had the privilege to both work and meet with talented designers who have already made positive contributions such as Google Creative Labs designers, the creative director of Under Armour in Baltimore, the creative director of the Atlantic, the Senior Industrial Designer at Smart Design, and many more. These exchanges in creative conversation have deeply influenced my own art practice and passion to make a positive impact on the world. Hence, I wish to continue down this path to meet fellow amazing designers and individuals who I can help, not just through creating simple day-to-day products or designs but systems and new structures that can aid in universal spaces whether it be workplaces, classrooms, or in the comfort of homes. The endless possibilities and prospects in my art is what fuels my ambition for this field of design and it is one I am proud to pursue.

Music is a connector and healing. It was in the summer of 2021 that we lost my Grandpa Jun, Grandpa Frankie, and Uncle Luke back-to-back in the span of 3 weeks. In 2022, we lost my Grandma Eden, my namesake. And last year, we lost my Grandma Claire and my Grandpa "Boy" in the span of 2 weeks. My Uncle Luke, the best snare drummer is his day, taught me rudiments and other vocabulary. My Grandpa Jun strung the guitar to oldies. My Grandpa Boy would blast Motown classics. My Grandma Eden would dance to all kinds of music, with her favorite moments watching me play on the drumset whether at home or, a memory I hold onto, during my first time performing with the Latin Jazz Youth Ensemble of SF (for it turned out to be a few months before she passed). Music played a part in their lives, so it's no wonder that playing music is integral to mine. I carry each of them with me and know they are smiling down with joy each time I play. You can imagine how these losses impacted my family these past few years. With each loss, I would come up with a music offering. I curated a playlist with their favorite songs. During my Grandma Eden's celebration of life event, I honored her by performing with a local band songs she'd love. With my extended family together, I started a jam session with each involved in some way, whether on the piano, congas, guiro, drumset, block, etc. On a "regular" day, my younger brother and I jam at home and sometimes invite my parents to join us. They often say that it's like a personal concert each time. In all these instances, the most fulfilling moment is seeing my mom, my pops, my aunties and uncles, and my cousins deal with loss. I witnessed how playing music helped my family. The music helps them connect with their feelings and together we can be there for each other. Each time I play music and bring others in, it helps us remember, celebrate, and honor our loved ones. And collectively, we continue to heal. I plan to hone my craft as a musician through my learning experience at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music to continue to provide the positive impact of music as a connector and healing for others.

As a film major at Spelman College, my life's mission is to join the Black women and men who are screenwriters and film directors to keep moving forward in the fight against cinematic racial oppression (and because screenwriting and directing are fun!) In my cinematic career, I have directed and written films about Black American repatriation to Africa, Black stunt doubles, and Afro-Latin dance as a form of medicine for mental health. My films have been finalists in various film festivals such as The 2023 NYU Accra Student Film Festival, National Black Movie Association Film Festival 2024, and The Green Screen Project Film Festival 2024. As the Event Planner and Outreach Leader of the Morehouse Filmmakers Association, I organized and led a community service initiative called “A Minute with Morehouse.” Thirty students from the Atlanta University Center along with fifty students at Booker T. Washington and again with sixty students at Tri-Cities High School spent a day filming with their cell phones. The next day, they edited the footage into a one-minute short which was shown at a community screening with parents a week later. Many of these students who initially said they were not going to college came to us after the showcase and said they were filling out college applications so they could be leaders in the filmmaking industry. Through this initiative, my team and I taught Black high schoolers that they have the power to be leaders in their storytelling journey through film. The WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship will enable me to continue my education so that I can help to end racism in cinema and consequently our society. The scholarship will also help me become an example for the generation of children of color after me. As I pursue a career in filmmaking, I will create films that uplift underrepresented groups and tell forgotten and lost stories, specifically throughout the African Diaspora. I will make a film about the culture and presence of Afro-Latinos, the ancient story of the Aborigines, and the intellectual gold mine of Timbuktu that contributed to the enlightenment and advancements in the Western world and what the city is today. Through my films, I plan to bring awareness to communities like these and lead efforts to improve their conditions in society. The honor of receiving The WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship can make this possible.

I plan to make a positive impact through creating emotionally resonant music, fostering my community, and using my platform to raise awareness about mental health. I plan to focus on creating music that speaks to people on a deep level. For me, music has been a real lifeline during some tough times dealing with anxiety and depression. I want to craft songs that can offer comfort and a sense of connection to others who might be going through similar struggles. My influences like Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, and Metro Boomin have taught me a lot about the power of storytelling and emotional honesty in music. My goal is to follow in their footsteps and use my art to explore the depths of mental health and human emotion, so that listeners feel understood and less alone. I'm committed to making a positive impact through my music in various ways. I aim to create emotionally impactful songs, foster community through outreach, and raise awareness about mental health. Through my music, I hope to inspire, heal, and unite people. I truly believe that music has the power to transcend barriers and bring people together, and I am dedicated to using my art to make a meaningful difference in the world. I will spend my career in music creating an outlet one can listen to . I will create emotionally impactful songs, foster community through outreach, and raise awareness about mental health. My goal is to inspire, heal, and unite people, as I believe that music possesses the power to transcend barriers and bring people together. I am committed to using my art to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Video games uniquely blend art and music, providing a form of escapism that surpasses what films and television can achieve. They transport players to diverse worlds, offering respite from daily challenges and moments of pure enjoyment. Beyond personal enjoyment, video games also create opportunities for individuals to forge lasting memories with loved ones. This immersive art form has fueled my creativity and inspired a desire to uplift others. I plan to craft a video game experience that evokes powerful emotional responses, offering solace and inspiration during difficult times. As a first-generation student and a child of immigrant parents, life has many demoralizing situations. From the experiences of struggling to pay for school, not knowing if I can continue, and the fear of failure, I can craft a video game experience that inspires hope in others facing similar situations. As a game art student, I will design the characters, their outfits, the props, and the worlds visually. In time, I will learn to compose music that sets the mood and immerses the player. The underlying theme of the project is dread and overcoming fears. One captivating aspect of the project features a DJ character, resurrected by her mother, drawing inspiration from Frankenstein's tale but with a more uplifting twist - where music imbues life with purpose. In crafting this character, the core message aims to inspire audiences to find meaning in their lives, regardless of their circumstances. Her underlying fear revolves around acceptance, yet she uses music to unite people and embrace the joy of living. Her music can soothe minds or bring up the mood with upbeat melodies. Besides this character, other characters in this project embody the many fears I have faced during my lifetime. I will show how I work through them. With unwavering passion and dedication, I aim to create a video game that sparks wonder and inspiration. By blending art, music, and immersive storytelling, I hope to transport them to enchanting worlds, fostering introspection and personal growth. Through diverse characters and thought-provoking narratives, I aspire to leave a lasting, positive impact, encouraging players to work through their fears and overcome obstacles. Video games can nullify concerns but provide a message of empathy and positive change. I hope to craft an unforgettable experience that uplifts spirits and fosters connections.

As a kid playtime became an escape from reality, a world of my own. As l've matured I have moved on from dolls and toys to other mediums of play. Within my art I utilize playfulness as a means to explore and express memories from throughout my life. I have always been very private about my personal life. Mentioning labels such as Mexican American, low income, child of separated parents, child of felon parent, child of immigrant parents and etc. can be difficult and uncomfortable. I have lived a complicated life and I'm not good at verbally expressing my feelings about it. Art has helped me reconnect with my younger self to cope through these emotions. My art is about memorializing, the negative and positive, memories in a visual aspect by talking without words. My goal is to feel alive and powerful by embracing my past, but most of all relieved to not have to remain hidden about my unique life story. My approach to being playful is by utilizing a 3D/2D form that immediately catches the viewer's eye. A form that lures the viewer to get close and personal with the memorialized memory. It persuades the viewer to insert themselves in a memory and wonder the meaning behind every detail and decision. The 2D aspect correlates back to a childhood photo, while the 3D is more spontaneous to the mood of the memory. During the construction process I like to get in the mindset of a childlike scientist that will allow whatever to happen with curiosity I want to show my truth shamelessly and if someone is able to connect with my art and feel seen/represented I feel joyous and grateful to be able to do such a beautiful thing. I realize now that my purpose is to bring light to vulnerability to exhibit the hidden realities. Vulnerability is a scary thing, but to feel seen without needing to explain verbally, can be enlightening. I want to normalize acceptance of the unconventional aspects of ones life. Playtime with my art has allowed me to redefine my life and my

Through my creative field of Sequential Arts, I plan on making a positive impact in the world by creating eye-catching illustrations and stories that my audience would feel inspired by. Growing up, I yearned to draw just like my favorite artists from popular media. I saw them as role models and I gained lots of creative inspiration from them. However, I’ve had moments where I doubted my passion after seeing how difficult making a living in the art industry can be. But after witnessing countless artists prove that anyone can succeed in doing what they love most, it motivated me to continue pursuing my dream of making art my career. As a Sequential Arts major, I plan to utilize my skills to create art that people can simply enjoy and gain inspiration from. I want an audience to look at my artwork and inspire others to pick up a pencil and start drawing themselves. I want to bring enjoyment to people's lives and when they look at my work, there is a chance it will brighten their day just a little bit more. Most of all, I want my art to serve as a reminder and as a beacon to those who are continuously doubting themselves on the inside as proof that with hard work you can positively shine a light on your future as a successful artist. Like the great illustrators and comic artists that have impacted society today, I yearn for my art to leave as great or an even greater impact in the art world as they have. As an art community, I believe we exist to help inspire each other. We influence each other's styles and form something unique the likes of which the world has never seen before. I shared a similar feeling when I began drawing such as being enamored with the broad horizons of creativity that the art medium has to offer. To be honest, I feel just as ordinary as anyone else who enjoys the creativity behind art. Although, I yearn to one day reach the level of my favorite artists. Just as they have inspired me, I wish to someday inspire new artists with my work as well to bring forth a new generation of creators.

In my cite- specific work called “Connecting History”. Originally, I was going to take the photos at a museum but decided to take back up shots just in case the museum thing wasn’t going to work out. In the photos, my models were wearing masks made out of hair. The reason why the model with the mask is placed in the woods because when slaves were escaping, they would travel through the woods with many obstacles in their way and underground. Their hair become maps for them to escape and find somewhere to go. Different type of braids or styles symbolized for different geographic features such as river (zig zag), roads(cornrolls), and mountains(knots) that my ancestors had to come across. So why not connect the two. Our elders were beaten, starved, neglected, etc for us to walk the paths they dug out with their own hands. I want my work to be truthful which can be unsettling but if no one talks about it then nothing will happen. I want change in our society. A couple events have taken place involving people of color and the police in 2020. It’s important to reflect on other’s mistakes and become away which led me to create “So you Think it’s a Game,” In the earlier stages of the pandemic, there was a spike in police brutality. Even though it is not happening a lot right now, it does still occur. The different ages between the figures indicate that age does not matter when becoming a victim. I made sure the environment felt like a simulation or a type of game. To me during those times, some of the police officers were playing shoot the ducks. I want to inspire other black artists and creators and that is happening soon enough. For a commission, I made a painting for someone’s wedding and one of the guests called me and said I inspired them to paint again, and they did a self-portrait of their own. For change to happen, I started putting my life and who I am out there for the world. Vulnerability is the best weapon to use against others because people are afraid of being weak. I will never be silent and never show fear. We need to do something so why not start with me? An artist of color, a voice of truth.

As I continue my education and begin to enter my career, I would like to use my knowledge and experience to help young musicians that are part of underrepresented groups to succeed by assisting them in their music journey via music theory and history tutoring/lessons and connecting them to resources where they can further grow. In the future, I hope to create a program for aspiring musicians that would connect them to a vast resource of teachers, tutors, and mentors that would enjoy building the next generation of musicians, in doing so, encouraging them to follow their passions while diversifying this art field. I believe in the importance of uplifting younger generations and helping them to believe they can accomplish their goals while also providing them access to knowledge and resources that they might not have. I hope that nurturing this courage will create powerful individuals that are leaders who are successful in their career field whether it is within music or not. I would also like to mention that I am not only entering this profession as a black woman but also as a transgender black woman. In the 21st century, orchestras and organizations are starting to recognize the limits that they have placed on themselves that keep out anyone of color who would like to enter the profession and represent a demographic that has been oppressed and overlooked. As the world of classical music expands, more representation of black men, men of color, and women of color are beginning to become recognized, however, the field still lacks adequate representation of black women and more specifically women who are black and transgender. As I begin to enter the field, I would like to create more opportunities for cis/trans black women in music administration and performance.

I intend to make a positive impact on the world by pursuing a life of love, acceptance, and dedication. I hope to inspire my young art students in the classroom and to provide an example to others of how to live harmoniously. As a tattoo artist, I would strive to empower people through the art I create for them. Ultimately when creating artwork I'm telling stories of the lessons I've learned in life, however as an artist, I have no right to the meaning taken away from my work. What my artwork can do is resonate with someone enough to encourage them to consume more of it. As I develop in my career and reap the abundance of my hard work I can be in better standing to give back to my community and create programs to help disadvantaged youth, those struggling with mental illness, and local homeless populations. I believe that by living a life of love, the world will present me with opportunities to uplift others, and it is my responsibility to get my life and recourses in order so that I can answer those calls to action.

Aside from being a trailblazing artist ushering in a new era of contemporary music of any genre I so choose to use as a medium for my compositions, another big part of my life goal is to make music education more accessible. As someone who never even picked up an instrument till I was 13 and began teaching myself how to play piano on a whim, I understand that creative passion is spontaneous, and can strike anyone at any time. Now, I was lucky enough to have a piano at my house because it had been passed down through generations of my family, but a lot of children and people, in general, don't have easy access to an outlet for the self-expression of music as I did. My goal is to get music back in public community spaces such as schools, summer camps, city-wide youth arts programs, annual concerts, and much more. My goal is to showcase to people young and old, beginner or advanced, that music is about bonding and community building, it's a way of life, and for some a means of making their lively hood. In the end, all I want to do is give people the exposure and the opportunity to discover the creative side in themselves, potentially through music, whether choose to become a professional musician, music teacher, or music business owner, I think that it is a useful life skill for anyone to have, that can take as far as you want as long you're willing to give it your time, attention, and most of all your self-expression. And that is how I plan on giving back and making an impact through my art.

Acting or the concept of acting itself is my certainty. People that have spent quite some time around me, could tell you I'm rebellious, crafty, funny, and eager, and they're not wrong. Unfortunately, my main concern wasn't my traits but simply my goal, my endgame, "Where do you see yourself in 10-20 years?" I never had an actual answer, I felt as though I was going through an identity crisis. As the world grew around me, I had to grow with it, meaning new interests arose, consistently causing me to change my future. Did I want to become a professional track athlete, a reputable animator, or even a creative graphic designer? Finding a passion, one that you can dedicate your life, time, and efforts to is a difficult journey for most to uncover. Thoughts of being underqualified, lack of talent, etc limits the mind and hinder the potential of what can be. So many genuine, talented people out in the world stray away from the potential of becoming something more because they haven't gained the opportunities to nurture that talent. I felt the same way, starting out as an aspiring actor, I felt like an outcast seeing other working actors display their talent. This changed as soon as I got cast as the lead character for my first short film, called "Seven Minutes in Heaven". I got a brief look at what the set looks like and how it operates, I spent days studying my character and incorporating his personality in made-up scenarios to build a better connection with my character to enhance my performance. Being able to work with creative visionaries, and pitching in ideas for improvised scenes increased my passion even further. Acting is my passion, it's a talent I never even knew I had the potential to bring into reality. I want to be able to do whatever I can to fully nurture this talent and share it with the world. I'm willing to invest how much time I need to learn whatever is necessary to become an actor that can leave a positive influence on others who work to achieve the same profession. Art is an expression, and by publishing mine to the world, I hope can free artists from the shackles that prevent them from investing in something that they love.

I am an artist. Creativity revolves around the core of my identity and it bleeds into everything I do. In the essence of my being, I am a creator, telling my stories and the stories of those who can't speak for themselves through visuals such as photography, videography, and multi-media artworks. I use my photography and self-portraits to communicate feelings of worthlessness, joy, grief, love, heartbreak, sorrow, and loneliness to the viewer, as well as express the feelings of living with mental illness and close the gap between those who experience these emotions in intense ways and those who do not. I am a survivor of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and those themes are fully present in my work, whether or not it is obvious to the viewer at first glance. It is a keynote that I include in my photography- sometimes intentionally and other times in underlying ways that I do not notice at first. I believe that all of my experiences have combined to create who I am, and my art is a direct mirror of that person and who I want to be in the future. I use visual arts to bring awareness to things I have struggled with and have watched loved ones struggle with, and I fully believe that creating a culture of acceotance begins with art.

In ten years, when someone excitedly exclaims, "Dude, this new agent that just dropped looks amazing!" they will be referring to a character that I, Lily Nguyen, a passionate game artist, have designed. My dream is to create unique and immersive characters that will make playing games more exciting and generate anticipation for new heroes, agents, or champions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual connections became crucial, and I realized the power they hold in building bonds, providing entertainment, and helping individuals cope with personal challenges. This realization sparked my desire to become one of those artists who shape and create experiences in virtual worlds. While the joy derived from video games is smaller in comparison to achievements like curing cancer, it is essential to understand that these small positive impacts can nurture and inspire individuals who will one day make significant contributions. Without these moments of joy and inspiration, the bigger achievements would never exist. Before embarking on my journey as a game artist, I created fine arts. I participated in the Garden Grove First Impression Art Show, where I showcased my sculpture artwork titled "AI Art." There, I met an elderly woman who wanted to converse with the artist behind the creation. As I shared my inspiration and artistic process, I witnessed the joy spark in her eyes. It was a moment of connection and appreciation. Through this encounter, I grasped the profound impact that art has on people's lives, for both the artist and the audience. Even though artists are undervalued in society, I aspire to be a role model for other aspiring artists, demonstrating that pursuing an art career is not only possible but also essential. Art has the power to inspire, uplift, and bring joy to both the creator and the audience. By following my passion, I hope to encourage future generations of artists to pursue their dreams. In a society that often encourages the pursuit of STEM and education over art, I aim to showcase that there is an abundance of opportunities to be an artist—regardless of what anyone says. Therefore, when excitedly exclaim about the new agent I've designed in ten years, it will be a testament to my creativity and a reminder of the impact art can have on people's lives. Through my artwork, I hope to enhance the gaming experience, generate excitement, and be a role model

When my younger brother, a boy on the autism spectrum, was in the seventh grade, he faced severe anxiety following six months of bullying at school. As his older sister, I understood that a confidable listener, the protector he could seek refuge with, and the advocate who would fight for him as his school failed him continuously. Being only 14 at the time, I carried was part of a mission to aid my brother and stand with my family through a difficult coping process. I decided to begin by picking up my guitar and simply learning my brother's favorite songs. Following one of his panic attacks, I knocked on my brother's door and told him I had something cool to show him. My hands strummed as I sang the tune of Calvin Harris’s “I Need Your Love”, my brother’s eyes glimmering with illusion. “Wow! How did you learn that?” he inquired. With a simple jam session, we discovered the key to healing that my brother and the entire family desperately searched for. Music therapy is an innovative field that combines music with psychology to heal individuals with intellectual disabilities and patients in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. This career is transforming music into medicine, becoming one of the first forms of artistry in healthcare. Traditional counseling and prescriptions were effective, but there was something special about seeing my brother’s anxiety ease away when I sang and played his favorite songs for him on my guitar. I am excited at the prospect of breaking into this blooming field, and such a possibility has been facilitated by institutions that recognize the impactfulness of the arts. My brother, his resilience, and his acceptance of music as a tool for his healing motivate me to continue my education. My aim is to become a music therapist and researcher that expands on what music therapy is, what it does in the lives of many, and how it can be integrated into new spaces, such as schools. Additionally, I find it essential to advocate for the expansion of arts therapies, ensuring that all have access to them regardless of their socioeconomic status. Integrating art into medicine the way music therapy does is now more crucial than ever not only for disabled individuals but for all people who are collectively recognizing that mental health awareness is key to our society’s betterment.

If there is only one thing that I can do in this lifetime, I want my musical teachings and playing to inspire exposure, reflection, and healing throughout less fortunate communities. Having been on this musical journey for more than a decade now, I’ve come to notice one common misfortune: pursuing your passions is a privilege not afforded to everyone. We like to think that this is a right that anyone can pursue, but unfortunately, that’s just not the reality for a lot of people. This goes double for people in underprivileged communities. They’re often met with choosing between following their hearts’ passions or making a stable life for themselves. The question is, why does this have to be their reality? How is it that it’s okay to look at one person and say they’re not deserving because of personal circumstances? I say it shouldn’t have to be this way. We’re all on this planet to do one thing and that’s make an enjoyable, sustainable life for ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. With the help of my saxophones, I want to help foster this idea by performing and showing the final product of someone who has often had to choose between passion and stability. I want to try to touch at least one person in each one of my audiences by bringing forth any hidden, raw emotions. Every time I play, I seek to share this vulnerable part of myself that speaks volume to my story. So far, it’s been working. One comment that has been consistent throughout the years is the amount of emotion that’s illuminated through my playing. I know personally how music is often a form of expression and therapy for those who don’t otherwise have a voice. By continuing to share this part of myself, I hope to give light to those often deemed the “underdogs” of society.

Drawing has always been my favorite form of expression and communication. Unfortunately, I could show my work to very few people who would understand my displays of creativity. It wasn’t until I had access to the internet, I was first introduced to an artistic community. Together we shared, collaborated, and helped each other grow into stronger creators, but these interactions still felt distant and cold through a screen. When I attended The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, I finally found the warmth of an art community that was living and breathing before my eyes. There I learned a crucial lesson about art that broadened my view on the subject, and to my surprise, I didn’t even have to pick up a paintbrush. I learned art is a way to bring people together. Since the cavemen drew on walls, we have come together to create art that shares our narratives, identities, interests, cultures, etc. Anyone can create art because art is not exclusive, instead, art is infinite. In my artistic career, I want to show people art is for everyone. Every day I practice and build a portfolio needed to be successful in the animation industry and bring better BIPOC representation in film and television. I have seen firsthand the wonder in people’s eyes when they see a character that looks like them on screen. It is a sight to be cherished and more people, especially our youth, deserve that experience to feel more connected to the art and media they enjoy daily. I’m working to grow my platforms enough to reach my community and introduce them to projects that encourage folks to get in touch with their creative sides. In the future, I hope to host events like art classes in my neighborhood that allow people to hone in on their talents or just try something new. While that goal hasn’t been met yet, I’m proud to say I’m using my art to give back to the community. I’m currently preparing to auction prints of my art to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s research toward ending blood cancers. I'm excited to see another gracious opportunity like this come again. I have dedicated my work to bring people together through art. Hopefully, my efforts will show others how powerful of a tool art can be for nourishing and enriching a community for generations to come.

My little sister is four years old, she’ll be five in October, and I think about what that means. I think about what it means to grow up as a young, Black, Muslim, girl in this world. As a kid I grew up in spaces that did not know, understand, or want to know anything about my identity. I was asked rude questions, laughed at, and sometimes openly slandered. My name, my face, my skin, and my faith were all unfamiliar and unworthy to the kids I interacted with every day. Their tiny worldview became my problem when my identity forced them to think outside of themselves and they made me pay for it. Now I’m 19, an artist, a poet, a bassist with strong hands and I have a little sister. I know who I am but she, as I did, may have a hard time learning about herself. So, the impact I want my art to have is simple. I want to, through loving depictions, narratives, authentic stories, and images, increase the visibility of people like us and maybe, just maybe, make growing up easier for someone. I plan to tell the stories of my people, Black, Muslim, American people, and in doing so make us known. Make us seen, show the injustices we’ve faced, all that we’ve overcome, the music we’ve made, the love we’ve brought, show that our story is America. I plan to make it so that little kids like my four-year-old sister can see themselves in the art they consume and know themselves as well. So that when someone asks them who they are with pointing hand and twisted mouth, my sister and kids like her can point to my canvas and say “I am that. I am Black, this is me.” I want my art to serve as a mirror to my people and all the kids who come after me. Something to show the most beautiful parts of us and serve as a constant reminder that we are, in fact, beautiful. So maybe, the only positive impact I truly desire is for a Black, Muslim kid to look up at something I’ve made and smile. I plan to do that by creating, refining, learning and growing, by going to Howard University and becoming the artist that can enact change.

I plan to utilize my art to cultivate a life that is worth living not only for myself but for others. For me this means dismantling the environmentally harmful and inhumane methods of production currently used by our clothing industry. It also means propagating an inclusive fashion industry where there is no set standard of beauty. I plan to give back to my community by being not only a living example that things will get better- but to encourage others like me to focus on what makes them truly euphoric. I want to be a role model that shows others like me that if I can do it, if I can overcome adversity, they can too. What has inspired my love for the fashion industry is experiencing first hand how freeing fashion can be as an art form. Through creating with my hands and pushing boundaries with my imagination, I unintentionally fostered self love through my craft. I want others to experience this love, freedom, and euphoria too- that is why I am pursuing my education! Along with these things I want to initiate a symbiotic relationship between people, their clothes, and the environment. I seek to augment an industry where garments are valued, kept, and reused for years to come- an industry where micro-trends and fast fashion are a distant thing of the past. For me, this looks like repurposing fabrics such as curtains, donated t-shirts, and other discarded items into something new to avoid needless waste. I actively employ this method in every piece! Additionally, I also seek to encourage people to completely avoid sending their unwanted clothing to be thrown in landfills. I want to demonstrate that although the life of your old t-shirt has ended, it has another life to live as a mini skirt! Lastly, I have observed that our industry can use a tremendous amount of remodeling. Another positive impact I plan to make is expanding the fashion industry to include marginalized groups of people such as disabled people, people with different body types, skin conditions, and older models. It excites me to be able to assist the ushering in of a new frontier in which the runway is accessible to everyone- and where the garments gracing the runway aren't environmentally detrimental either. I seek to augment a fashion industry that not only breaks boundaries, but builds bridges, because we have no planet B!

Southwest Detroit native raised in Metro Detroit and Jalisco, Mexico, Julianna Sanroman Rojas is a visual artist candidate to receive her BFA and teaching certificate from College for Creative Studies. I was inspired by the positive and negative experiences of being separated from my family due to deportation. I am very fortunate to be in a space that allows me to find myself and reclaim my heritage. I used traditional narratives throughout my work, which will enable me to challenge my past and attempt to reimagine my future. My parent's deportation inspires me every day to create art. To push me creatively and heal from the pain of constantly missing them. I have lived away from my parents for 16 years now. I am choosing to reclaim my heritage and reconnect to what has been taken for me affirming love and healing. To receive a better education and be constantly motivated by their absence. I am exploring how to carry my home with me in my work. Look into my past as something I can recognize as an aspect of my life that is mine yet is not, Longing for what I had and realizing I can longer live there. My experiences with immigration, heartbreak, and transitions allow me to explore these constant shifts and examine myself breaking down and rebuilding in new ways. These homes, in my memory, are homes of love, isolation, tenderness, and violence. I am inspired by the city I live in, working with my community, and hoping to use this scholarship to succeed in getting my Bachelor of Fine Arts - BFA focused in Art Teacher Education from College for Creative Studies. I've been working at a Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation; With my degree, I want to be an Art Educator and pursue higher education, participate in galleries and attend an artist residency. I want to share my love of art and pass that off as teachers have done for me in the past. I hope to continue making art for myself as I become myself over again, connect with my family community, and make art accessible to the youth who inspire me constantly.

Artists’ minds and ambitions are unique and are generally not given the opportunity to be developed professionally in most countries. I’ve been one to avoid chasing a career involving art, scared to never find my place in a professional setting; regardless, being exposed and studying art the majority of my life has convinced me otherwise. I am confident I can impact society with the knowledge I will acquire with a Fine Arts major. My experience in art has assured me that it is possible to choose a career in the art industry and be successful. I had the opportunity to explore painting outside of school, through muralism. I became part of community service in forgotten sectors of culturally important Puerto Rican communities: La Perla, Santurce and Piñones and work alongside organizations like Artistas Pa’l Sur, Casa Ronald McDonald and Antenna Alternative Studio. I saw that I had an opportunity to take on a leadership position and call attention to the culture and topics of importance to create a sense of pride for the community. I designed murals following the request of the organizations and what they were trying to convey for the project. These murals mean a lot to me and my artistic career. I discovered a passion for breaking societal standards surrounding urban art. There is so much misconception regarding this art field and I would like to contribute and shed a new light into it. I also hope to become an inspiration to other young female artists and encourage them through muralism to chase male-dominant careers. I am interested in winning this scholarship because having a complete education in visual arts will give me the platform and expertise to accomplish my dreams. My goal is to take my murals around the world, learn about other cultures and incorporate them into my pieces to make communities proud of their identity. Connecting with the audience through my work sparks a new motivation, and drive to keep creating. I know that this scholarship can provide the resources to get the education of excellence I am looking for, where I can reach the peak of my potential and become the best artist I can be. I believe I am the perfect student to win your scholarship, I have an innovative mindset, I am hardworking and highly motivated to thrive in art, not only in Puerto Rico but anywhere my journey takes me.

’d like to use my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving environmentally-friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding leads to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social wellbeing. I believe that art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I’ve already been accepted into Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta and am very excited to continue developing my God-given talents of visual arts. By attending SCAD, l will be immersed in the unique studies of one of the best art colleges in the United States. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. I'd like to give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any project I'm involved with have a huge global impact. I enjoy doing research to make sure all design elements accurately reflect the story represented. According to my research, science fiction and futuristic projects require a lot of work as graphic designers work to create a unique and innovative look for the project at hand. I can definitely agree with this statement based on my drawing of the Mandalorian. I've place a link to this drawing and a couple of others below. This drawing was one of my most liked due to the vast details in the armor. I believe that through my vision of combining the right elements, each graphic design can evoke an accurate depiction of emotions and feelings that would be highly memorable and invoke positive actions to all audiences. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship.

Being a BIPOC in the arts field is extremely rare as BIPOCs are underrepresented in formal ensembles. Between 1980 to 2014, musician diversity saw substantial growth in numbers, however African American and Hispanic/Latino musicians remained extremely low. It is important to me to be the change that I want to see and in order to do that, it is essential that I act as an advocate for BIPOC and myself. Acting as an advocate has become important to me after realizing what my role would be once choosing the college I would be at for the next 3-4 years. I hope to one day use that passion and perform in an orchestra playing the French Horn and ultimately make myself a seat at the table. Growing up and attending an art school I had the opportunity to be provided with many great resources and was introduced to many different people. I feel as if these opportunities were handed to me and I didn’t realize the importance of working for things myself. My first time being in a youth orchestra and youth wind ensemble I was one of the few people that were black and female. At some point, I felt out of place and felt like there should definitely be more people that looked like me. I began to ask myself if BIPOCs that weren’t in my position were simply not granted the same opportunities or if they didn’t audition because they felt they weren’t worthy of the position. After my first year of attending college, I realized that opportunities had changed as the bubble has gotten bigger. Attending a PWI has made me realize the importance of providing BIPOC with the opportunity of being seen and heard in the art field because that representation matters. I hope to be provided with more opportunities involving BIPOC in the arts at my university and get the chance to express my concerns regarding the misrepresentation. After graduating, I hope to attend graduate school for my master’s in arts management and potentially work for non-profit organizations specifically for children in underrepresented areas. Doing that will ensure I am there for BIPOC that cannot advocate alone in such a big space where they may feel unheard. Providing them with the same opportunities I had growing up will hopefully make the statistics of BIPOC being successful in the arts greater.

Growing up, my parents would bring me to art museums to look at paintings and I began noticing many of the artists, and the subjects of the work, did not reflect my identity or experience. I felt alienated and unseen by the lack of brown bodies, specifically Latinos, depicted on the walls of these cultural institutions. Thus, my mission is to make artwork as a platform for visibility of the Latino communities that are too often hidden between the margins of America. I construct large scale paintings that bring to light the vibrant culture of my community in order to combat the lack of representation in the art world. My art practice is rooted in sharing the experiences of being a brown body in the United States, and reconciling how I view my identity with the identity cast upon me by society. Growing up in the predominantly Latino city of Los Angeles, my body and my culture were simultaneously capitalized on, and ostracized by, white institutions and structures of power - in particular, my Mexican identity was often misrepresented by the media and the people around me despite the large Latino presence in California. Pertinent to the current political landscape of the United States, my works draw inspiration from the ignorance, and the white gaze, that only sees the most superficial layers of my Mexican identity. I reference images of my family, friends, and the larger community to narrate scenes often not seen, and in the process, investigate larger themes surrounding the implicit biases and stereotyping that is embedded in the representation of POC communities in White America. Through the use of found objects and handcrafted wooden panels / surfaces, I reference the long history of labor and struggle Mexican-American communities endure to help build, support, and operate the United States. Ultimately, I create art that reflects my community so that one day a little Latin American boy or girl can walk into a museum, see my work, and feel seen, loved, and honored.

Making a positive impact on the world is the motivating factor for my art projects. I want to create media that battles negative stereotypes and portrayals surrounding Latinas in the United States. There are a lot of factors that go against Latinas such as: racism, xenophobia, sexualization and simultaneously portraying Latinas as 'unattractive' through use of the Eurocentric beauty standard. Growing up as a first-generation Latina in the United States presented unique challenges that my parents had not previously faced. Firstly, I was subject to bullying and isolation from my classmates through my entire public-school education. I was bullied because of my complexion, body hair, and overall image and build. Along with this I felt isolation from Latinos I met growing up as well, having a dual identity presented challenges in both spheres because I was never enough for either. Along with this, I faced repercussions of unresolved generational trauma from my parents. There was never a safe space for me to exist as myself. I believe one of the contributing factors to receiving negative experiences with my white classmates was influenced by mass media. Ten years ago, seeing Latinas in media was rare. Even in Mexican media, actresses were often European and fair toned. This was traumatizing as a child, as I never saw anyone that looked like me portrayed positively. I grew up thinking that I could never be happy because of the features that I was born with. Which is why I want to be a filmmaker. I want to create films that empower Latinas, through discussions of generational trauma, colorism, racism and xenophobia. The aim of these projects are not to focus on the trauma surrounding these topics, but instead would inspire young Latinas by seeing their stories on the screen. Latina women deserve to grow up free from restrictions in their dreams, and not be contained to a box. I am currently working on a script and storyboard for a short film I will be producing in the upcoming school year. Previously, I have created a short documentary focused on my father and his life as an immigrant.

I plan to make a positive impacts through my art and media by staying true myself. It is my belief that the laws of the universe abide. The Law of Attraction says " that which is like unto itself, is drawn". By focusing on the things that I know to be positive: love, joy, appreciation, and happiness, I understand that I have the ability to attract and influence others who are in pursuit of the value that I offer to any given situation. Whether they be black or white, man or woman, non-binary, whatever background, how ever or whenever in which one comes, I wish for people to see and experience the beauty of my art and be happy from that. To relate to it or to simply look and be comforted by it. Staying true to myself and being honest in my path will inspire others to follow suit.

I am a Jazz Voice Major at Howard University. Art related majors are never appreciated compared to others majors. I am currently 19 years old and have a big dream. I want to share my gift to the world. All of the artists now a days are just putting out music that encouraged chaos and is vulgar. I want to be a positive artist, putting encouraging lyrics in my songs. Growing up I was able to find artists that made songs that did encouraged me, without that and God. I honestly would not have been here today. Believe it or not the music the youth listen to has a large impact on the mindset they have towards life and people. The amount of people with positivity in their music compared to the explicit music is terrible. This money will allow me to continue going to college and improving in my talent. My career path is just as impactful as someone's who is in a much higher held status.

I am a violist. I am also an African American male from the South Side of Chicago. The area I live in is called “The Wild 100s." The city of Chicago has a reputation as an incredibly violent city. During the 2022 Memorial Day weekend, forty-six people were shot, and ten of those died. Most of the victims and shooters are just like me; they are young Black males who grew up on the West and South Sides of Chicago. But unlike most of those young men, I have academic and career options. When I was nine years old, I heard the viola for the first time. Someone was playing the viola in a talent show, and I fell in love with the viola. Deciding to play the viola was a decision that changed my life. Later I became a member of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO). As a member of CYSO, I was one of about five BIPOC in an orchestra of over one hundred of the best musicians in Chicago. While in the CYSO, I volunteered for the Ambassador Quartet, and we visited and performed in public schools in some of the most impoverished neighborhoods in Chicago. As a high school senior, I was selected to be a part of the National Youth Orchestra (NYO). I had the opportunity to represent not only my country but also young African American males from one of the toughest areas of the nation and to show the world that we can succeed in the world of classical music. During my time with NYO, I mentored a young Black violist. I was grateful the be a part of the NYO, not just for my sake, but for the sake of that young boy. As a student at the Jacobs School of Music, I am a part of an even small percentage of people of color. Playing the viola is a privilege, and I know that. Currently, African Americans make up less than 2% of professional orchestras. My goal is to obtain a position as a violist in a professional orchestra. I plan to continue to show up and represent those who are like me but without the opportunities I have. I hope my continued representation in the world of classical music will enable young BIPOC to strive for equal access and success in an area where we are still severely underrepresented.