Undergraduate Spotlight
Tell us about yourself.
I had actually nearly completed my first degree (B.A. in Psychology) and decided to postpone my graduation to join the BFA during the spring break of my last semester of my BA
During the spring break of my final semester for my Psychology B.A., I decided to postpone my graduation and pursue the B.F.A. I am a semi-established painter in the local art scene and knew many people that had gone through the program at Ole Miss. They would always glow when they spoke of their experiences, and many encouraged me to do the same. I felt that I had done what I could on my own and wanted to grow more, and pulled the trigger.
What type of artwork do you create and can you discuss your process?
I am a painter, and currently and rediscovering the type of art I want to create. When doing work I mostly paint landscapes and local buildings, but my personal work is more surreal and expressive. My process is very “scatterbrained,” as I am always taking photos and hoarding objects to paint someday. I take those photos and make collages based around a specific feeling or experience I want to convey and paint my image from there. I work out of a studio in my home and it is constantly a mess and I seem to be always working on 5+ paintings at a time.
Which artists do you look to for inspiration?
Some of my earliest artistic inspirations come from illustrated storybooks or art depicted in history books, as I spent much of my time as a child reading and drawing about what I read. Today, some of my favorite artists I look to for inspiration are surrealist artists like Zdzisław Beksiński, Francis Bacon, and Hieronymus Bosch.
Which professors inspired you the most?
I feel as if I have formed meaningful relationships with all of my professors I have had at Ole Miss. Some that I feel have really inspired me are the following: Jenna Schmidt (Ceramics) for showing me how being a mother not only doesn’t hinder your artistic practice, but can inform and deepen your work. Kariann Fuqua (Drawing) for pushing me to never say “oh well, good enough” and to strive for greatness. Brooke Alexander (Painting) for teaching me to see little moments and subtleties in composition, and that being an artist is a legitimate and respectable career path. Kaleena Stasiak (Printmaking) for showing how to find joy in the technical practices of creating.
What has been your favorite class during your years here?
I would have to say my favorite classes have been my printmaking classes. I am a painter at heart but my favorite work so far has come from printmaking.
Do you have a favorite memory here in the department?
A favorite memory of mine is just one of those last days of the semester where everyone was working late and sleep-deprived, but we had gotten to know each other so well that we were just having a blast getting to work alongside one another.
Do you have any advice for incoming art students?
I would say whether you are an 18-year-old freshman or a 30-year-old finally pursuing your dream degree, go in it with your whole heart. Don’t half-ass anything, and really put the time in. Also, learn how to not be defensive and take critique, even if it hurts your feelings at first. And talk to your classmates, make group chats, and make friends. Having friends to encourage you and keep you accountable makes all the difference in the world.
Do you have any hobbies outside of the art department?
I am heavily involved with the local theatre/improv scene, and perform with Anubis Improv at the Powerhouse in Oxford and This Is Noteworthy in Water Valley.
What is your favorite thing about Oxford or the University?
My family and friends are my favorite thing about Oxford. The friends I have made through the BFA are the deepest, most meaningful relationships I have had the privilege of forming in a long time. I am so lucky to be surrounded by people that are so loving, and I’m so glad to be apart of such a great community.