Student Spotlight

What kind of art do you make? What inspires you?

Working through my first year at Cornish I've found that inspiration comes from within. Yes, it sounds cliche, but sitting in a dark room with some soothing music can really boost my idea output.

When in your life did you first become involved in your artistic discipline? What influenced you to become involved in the arts?

When I was eight I walked onto my first stage. From that moment on, it was set...I was to spend my life in theater. In the 10 years following I have honed my talents and decided that technical theater is my passion. It will be my life.

What are your current projects?

Right now I am in the midst of a set/light design for my theater company's (Backwards Company) first production, "Dreams, Oh Dream". Also, there are tons of little projects for my classes, including making a mask, drawing and painting costume renderings, and a swatchbook for my costume history class.

Where are you from? How is Seattle different?

I'm from the small town of Sandy, Oregon. It's East of Portland and no one has heard of it. Haha. Seattle is different in the obvious ways, it's way way way bigger! I've never lived in a big city before, and I love it!

Why did you choose to come to Cornish?

Cornish was the only college I applied for, I knew it was where I wanted to go, and I would settle for nothing less. It has small classes, experienced teachers, hands-on experience, and a great sense of humor! Everything an artist needs to thrive!

What has been your experience here?

So far it's been great! There have been very few moments when I've been upset about being at school. It's stressful, but it's a good kind of stress. The kind of stress that artists use to succeed. The people are great, the teachers supportive...and yeah! I love it!

What quirky hobbies do you have?

I don't know about quirky, but I love writing, and painting, and singing Disney music really loud in the scene shop while painting things! Well, okay, that's kind of quirky...

What do you see yourself doing in 5 years?

In five years...oh man, I can't think about that now! What am I going to do in five days when my homework's not done!!?? No, but seriously, I hope to be living off of my newborn theater company, living life to the fullest as a technical director.

What would you tell a prospective student about Cornish?

I'd tell them to make sure they want to come. Make sure you are ready to make school your life, because that's what it takes. Commitment and endurance is required. If you love your art, and want it to be your life, this is the place for you. It's one of the few schools that make arts students fell welcomed.

What is your creative process?

When I start a project I picture the final entity. Then, I move backwards. I figure out how it's done, and then the materials I need, and then how the hell I will start. It works well, but it's unusual.