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

I had always had an affinity for art; my aunt was an artist and would always encourage me to create. Yet, I first fell in love with photography thanks to the photography class here at One River. My mom had enrolled me in class after having just moved here from Brazil and I needed to get out the house. From then on I just became even more consumed by different parts of art, then enrolling in the portfolio class to expand my artistic skill and body of work. Throughout my journey, I have always been thankful for the many teachers and friends who have continuously encouraged me to pursue the arts, try new mediums, and push my artistic boundaries.

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

My favorite project I have ever done here at One River was in my photography class. We had this project based off the work of a cinematic photographer, Gregory Crewdson. The goal was to create a documentary/cinematic style series on the world around us. This type of photography had always captivated me and I was excited to try to express my work in a documentary style photo series.

How would you describe One River to your friends?

I have always described One River as an art school that functions as my second home. To a friend, I would highlight its welcoming environment, it’s emphasis on student experience, and the freedom students have in creating work that they feel proud of and represents them.

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

My dad likes to say there are two types of people in this world, creators and consumers, and that we should always strive to create more than we consume. This is what I think is the main benefit of art making, the opportunity to create something, with your own hands and express whatever is in your brain in visual form. This outlet has always helped me in times of stress or hardship and it can help anyone willing to try.