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DanYa Williams

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Finalist

Bio

Hello! My name is DanYa Williams but please call me Dani. and I'm a senior at St. Mary's Academy in Inglewood, CA! I have a strong passion for the fine arts, specifically in the visual arts department. Anything related to artsy things--like drawing, painting, ceramics, animation, photography, etc.--sign me up! What blossomed out of my love for art was my own business. Through YEARS of experimentation regarding my art style, I was able to launch my own mini business! I now do freelance commission work to help support my artistic endeavors. With that being said, if you ever need a portrait of a loved one or pet, let me know! Going to college has always been a dream of mine ever since I saw my older brother begin his journey when I was 6 years old. I thought the fact that he was able to go into the world on his own and forge his own path in life was awesome, and I'm determined to do the same! However, the only setback for me is affordability. There's only so much that my mom and I can contribute towards my education, so winning scholarship money will continue to help me get closer to unlocking my creative potential. Once I raise enough money to attend the college or university I plan on attending, I'm going to continue to nurture my innovative nature so I can efficiently support my innovative journey and support future generations of artists that will keep the world a creative place.

Education

Spelman College

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Visual and Performing Arts, General
  • Minors:
    • Fine and Studio Arts

Saint Marys Academy

High School
2020 - 2024
  • GPA:
    3.8

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Visual and Performing Arts, General
    • English Language and Literature, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Test scores:

    • 1190
      SAT
    • 1160
      PSAT

    Career

    • Dream career field:

      Arts

    • Dream career goals:

    • Lead tutor and founder

      DanYa's Tutoring
      2021 – Present3 years
    • Founder

      Dani Makes Art
      2020 – Present4 years
    • Work of Art Intern

      Inner-City Arts
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2021 – Present3 years

    Volleyball

    Junior Varsity
    2021 – 20221 year

    Arts

    • Inner-City Arts

      Visual Arts
      2022 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      DanYa and Genesis's HSPT Tutoring — Reading and Writing HSPT Tutor
      2020 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Surf Rider Foundation — Voulenteer
      2021 – Present

    Future Interests

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship
    I made my way through what seemed like an endless journey. Dodging long legs and weaving tablecloths, I finally made it. I could pursue any inquiries I had with the mysterious man. Sneakily–I couldn’t have been more painfully obvious–I peeked over his shoulder to observe the lion he was drawing. Any ounce of stealth I had dissipated as I gasped from the pure talent I witnessed. That lion was the greatest drawing 5-year-old-me had seen. I couldn’t help but ask: “How did you make this? And how can I do the same thing?” That man was my late Uncle Lester. He was a profound artist at the time and ended up being my mentor for the day. He introduced me to the wonders of art and even taught me how to draw small animals. After hours of practice, I demonstrated my hard work by leaving a squiggly bird on top of his lion. I will forever cherish that moment. Inspired by that experience, I taught myself how to draw. I was excited that I was going to try something new and possibly easy. Years of making interestingly drawn people, and struggling to craft a distinct style made me realize that visual art was anything but easy. But, it was fun. The universe was at the tip of the pencil I wielded and I could draw anything my heart desired. With this new revelation, I realized that my art was one of my most powerful gifts. Being able to visually articulate my thoughts and opinions on topics that are important to me opened the door to a world of new possibilities. For instance, I created artwork that brought recognition to the immense amount of talent my local community has and is growing every day. This includes making pieces that celebrate black life and joy and encouraging others to do the same with their cultures. Watching my technical skills improve due to my commitment pushed me to continue developing my innovative potential. After making my first professional art account, I posted original drawings, paintings, and designs, and eventually attracted clients. Through my clientele, I commissioned 20 original artworks for enjoyers of the work I produce and began my own business. To go further, I began an internship at Inner-City Arts. Here, I collaborated with my co-workers to encourage artistic exploration for the youth of Los Angeles. Usually, those kids don’t see people that look like them doing artistic work they’re interested in. Being a successful familiar face that serves as an active resource for them to rely on will ensure the continuation of the creative energy our world thrives on. Things like these make me reflect on my high school career and appreciate what I’ve been able to create with the limited amount of resources I have. From taking inspiration from the lion my Uncle Lester drew to being the representation little black girls and boys need to continue exploring the world of art makes me wonder what else I’ll be able to achieve once I graduate. Well, I have something in mind. I’m going to continue to nurture my artistic path. I still have a lot to learn, and the best way to actively discover who I am as an artist is to practice. Consistency will continue to foster the active usage of my art to portray impactful experiences that both speak my truth. With that said, no matter the situation I will leave my mark on any piece of paper this world full of pages gives me, because that’s what I’m drawn to do.