My favorite type of art to create is capturing people’s emotions. I love painting and drawing portraits that reflect who someone is and what they’re going through at a certain point in their life. I also enjoy creating stop motion pieces, bringing emotion to life in a more dynamic way. There is something beautiful about looking back on these works and seeing how much a person has grown. To me, art preserves emotions and experiences that might otherwise fade over time.

For my art, I find inspiration in music and the quiet moments of everyday life, even something as simple as a walk. Music shapes the way I see and feel the world, guiding how I express emotion in my work. I’m especially drawn to melancholic artists like Ethel Cain and The Neighbourhood, whose sound carries a deep sense of emotion. Their music helps me translate feelings into something visual, turning passing moments into something lasting.

Something I would do with the $25,000 is invest it into my education and future as an artist. As a freshman in college pursuing my AA in fine arts, I’m working toward transferring to Savannah College of Art and Design for my junior and senior years. This opportunity would give me the space to fully grow into my creativity without limitation. Any remaining support would go toward materials and experiences that continue to shape my voice, allowing me to create work that meaningful.