I often reflect on my gratitude for the people who have supported me throughout my life. As my mom says, “You always had your ideas, and no one could tell you anything different”. While this has always been true, it’s the mentors, friends, and family who believed in those ideas that have shaped the path I’m on today.
Some of my earliest memories involve lying on the floor with my dad drawing together. Creativity has always been a constant in my life-whether it was crafting my own Halloween costumes or filling sketchbooks with drawings. However, in high school, my passion for art evolved into something more. I remember when my art teacher suggested that I apply to the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, where I would go on to receive multiple recognitions. From that point on, she continually encouraged me to dream bigger, value my work, and seek out new opportunities. Without that push, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards ceremony was hosted at the Milwaukee Art Museum (MAM) and led by the Associate Educator of Teen Programs, whose passion for supporting young artists left a lasting impression on me. Later that year, my art teacher shared an internship opportunity at the museum, where I would work closely with the Associate Educator, which only continued to fuel my passion for the arts.
During this internship at MAM, I worked closely with other museum interns and local artists to organize events like Teen Night, which brought together Milwaukee Public Schools students to create art and engage with the museum. Around the same time, I painted my first mural in downtown Menomonee Falls. These experiences truly shifted my perspective on just how impactful community-based art initiatives could be and just how important art is for connection and growth. Afterward, I decided to pursue a degree in art and applied to UW-Madison.
During my undergraduate studies at UW-Madison, I was fortunate to have professors who persistently challenged me to consider the impact and purpose of art in the world. Their mentorship encouraged me to pursue ambitious projects, including No Place to Hide, which earned me the Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Arts Award. I also joined Monroe Street Arts Center (MSAC) as an administrative assistant and art instructor.
Last spring, with my graduation from UW-Madison on the horizon, I was uncertain about what my next steps would be. I knew I needed a program that could deepen my understanding of both the arts and business, while still supporting my wide range of passions. In my experiences, I’ve witnessed the many barriers that artists face, and when I learned about the Bolz Center and the Master of Arts-Business: Arts and Creative Enterprise Leadership program, I applied right away. This year in addition to taking the MA-B business coursework, I have also expanded my role with MSAC and am gaining experience in grant writing, fundraising, and community outreach.
I believe that art has the power to transform lives, but it requires support to truly flourish. I hope to dedicate my career to ensuring that others have access to the resources, support, and encouragement that I’ve been so fortunate to receive.
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