How long have you been a student at One River?

I have been at One River since I was in 4th grade, so it’s been about 4 years (I think!).

Tell us a little bit about your journey as a young and developing artist?

I have always enjoyed art. I can’t remember a time I didn’t like to draw or paint. I have learned many skills at One River that have helped me a lot to improve as an artist. I have also met many great teachers there! I am a homeschooler who is enrolled in a distance learning school. The curriculum has lots of artistic assignments, so I use many of the skills I have learned to complete them. I am also developing my skills in photography at One River. My family and I love to travel so having skills in photography is great for documenting our trips. I look forward to all the photography opportunities I will have next month when we travel to Palau!

Which has been your favorite project to work on at One River and why?

One of my favorite projects was an oil painting inspired by the work of Mark Ryden. I was inspired by his painting, The Creatrix, to create an undersea painting of a giant jellyfish with various other sea creatures. I really enjoy being introduced to new artwork and learning about the artist. My parents bought me Mark Ryden’s book called Anima Animals, which I enjoy looking through.

How would you describe One River to your friends?

I would describe One River as a very welcoming place. It is an art school that allows you to tailor your projects towards your passions. There are so many different classes to try, so you can never get bored.

What would you tell people who’ve never dabbled in art making are the real benefits to trying it?

The benefits to trying art for the first time are challenging yourself to step out of your comfort zone, possibly discovering a talent you didn’t know you had, or finding out that you do not have a talent but enjoy doing it anyway!