Alexis Mackenzie Memorial Scholarship for the Arts

I want people to look at me and know that everything is possible. While I was growing up, I always saw the same characteristics in performers. They usually fit a certain criteria when it comes to their appearance. As a chubby, small, Hispanic girl, I never saw any of their physical attributes in myself. Because of that, I didn't feel like I was enough to be on the stage. But I had such a determination to make it known that I, too, can be that person performing. Theatre should be something that everyone can feel included in, regardless of what makes them who they are; such as the color of their skin, their sexuality, their culture, and everything else that makes those people human. I've never seen someone on stage or on film that looks similar to me and I believe that there must be several people out there that must feel the same way as I do. That's why I perform. My motivation is to heal those that have been hurt for this reason and raise the next generation to be strong. I perform to encourage people, especially younger artists, and prove they can do anything they set their mind to. Even if you're plus sized and Hispanic. When I'm older, my goal is to have a well-rounded knowledge of the industry, in order to be a Broadway Director. This has been a dream of mine because I've always wanted to give those who never thought they could have an opportunity, and give them that chance to be great. I believe that it will create a world where this lifestyle would be more reachable. This will change the world for the better. My educational experience includes the New World School of the Arts in the Musical Theatre division. I am currently headed to Boston Conservatory at Berklee for a BFA in Musical Theatre. My range for singing is a C3-F6. I have worked with the Uta Hagen and Meisner method for Acting. My dance experience includes ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and modern. I fear I need more aid to pursue my attendance at my dream school, The Boston Conservatory at Berklee. My aunts and uncles had their Visas approved and are now staying with us. That results in 10 people living in our 3 bedroom house. My father is the sole provider of my family and already makes below the national average with the amount he is given as a 100% Disabled Veteran. Adding on to that, he is retiring this year which would make his income decrease even more. We no longer have enough money to buy most of our basic needs, let alone pay for college. It would be an honor to continue my love for art.

May 12, 2012, is the day the movie The Avengers came out. I was a 12-year-old girl living in Cleveland, Ohio where evidently the movie was filmed. Me and my dad used to go to the movies all the time together at the Tower City theaters. I remember the excitement and the amazing marketing that was everywhere for this movie. The moment the movie played I instantly had goosebumps, the electric feeling of falling in love with the colors in the film, the stunts, the actors, the plotline, and the amazing quotable lines. That magnetic feeling is what put in motion the dreams of becoming an actor. Being able to play a character with the actions and objectives you couldn’t have in real life was an absolute dream. From then on, I knew I would have to do everything I can to become a world-renowned actress. Growing up my whole life revolved around the arts, as simple as making a drawing to express myself and what I was thinking to listening to music to describe how I was feeling and what kind of mood I was in. My passion for the arts derives from the pleasure of escaping the real world and going into a fantasy for a little while and forgetting everything else. That’s mostly why I love acting so much, just to become something other than yourself, to have the thoughts and life of someone else…whoever you want to be. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, one of the top ten dangerous and depressed cities in the United States. I also grew up very poor and even though my parents did everything that they could so I could learn the art of acting, it was still very expensive and about connections. Acting classes were about 500$ a class, my school's theater program wasn’t the best, and when I did get into a program no teacher wanted to give me a real chance just because of the school I was in and the reputation that came from going to that school. Whilst there were other children from more prominent schools who were given a chance. Throughout it all, I remained strong in my love for acting. Theater was a healthy part in coping from all the violence, problems going on at home, and away from the constant depressing thoughts that came into my head. Art was a form of escaping for me, and when I become an actress I want to use my platform to build a program in Cleveland, Ohio and expand to other low income cities for youth children to start their passion in the arts regardless of how much money they have, to help give a leg up to those who want to pursue their own passions and dreams. Whether that’s theater, painting, music, sculpture, etc. The arts is a very competitive sport but regardless of the fact everyone deserves a chance, no matter where they come from or how much they have. Art is what brings people together, it brings laughs, cries, anger, and understanding. Every form of art has a way of reaching into the soul and touching something within everyone and I think everyone in the world deserves to feel that amazing feeling.

Art is something that has inspired me. Admiring different art styles and trying them challenged me. Whenever inspiration struck, I would always have art materials with me. In middle school, I made many artist friends. One of my friends taught me about animation. I knew cartoons existed, but I did not know how to bring them to life. Once I found apps to create animations, I practiced. Whenever someone would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would say "artist." However, I did not know what category I wanted to do. Learning about animation gave me a clear Idea. I was in 8th grade when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. I was stuck at home and I had to find things to do to keep me occupied. I got TikTok and followed every animator I came across. I then started to create and post my animations. I watched videos on how to animate smoothly and how layers worked. My love for the art was still young. In high school, the world began to change in my eyes. In my computer class, we would code in Scratch. My teacher thought I was pretty good and wanted me to enter the Technology Fair for my county. I entered the fair, but I chose the animation competition over the coding one. I animated a 58-second animation about a girl exploring the internet. The animation I made received 1st place in the Technology Fair for my county. I was in 11th grade then and I knew had to start looking for colleges. One piece of work that has influenced me is Disney’s Frozen 2. Aside from the amazing plot, the animation is beautiful. As a future animator, I admire how different animators combine their knowledge to create something beautiful. Disney also has a show about the making of Frozen 2, and the animators went into detail on how they made the water look real and how they added touch-ups to the animations to make it come to life. The Frozen 2 crew also has a storyboard artist to create an outline for the movie. Seeing the entire animation process inspired me and opened my eyes to the many opportunities I can achieve. For example, even if I don't become an animator, I can become a storyboard artist. While the work can be stressful, the animators had fun in the process. The animation for a Technology Fair I entered was 58 seconds and over 700 frames, I cannot begin to fathom how many frames Frozen 2 was, and that doesn’t count deleted scenes. I learned how tedious animation is, and the beautiful nature of the entire film inspired me to be a part of something great. I want to be part of the process that makes animation beautiful, and the beauty of Frozen 2 gave me a new perspective on the making of films. I want to go to school for animation. Whether it is a comedic cartoon or a grocery store commercial, I want to bring joy to people's lives. Laughing is the best medicine, and I can help make people laugh one animation at a time. Thank you for allowing me to apply for this art scholarship and I will be forever grateful if I receive it.

I earned a place on the dance company team my senior year. Many of the other girls that started dancing alongside me in 9th grade earned a place on the dance company team around 11th grade, but I didn't. I was devastated. I don't count it as a failure- only a lesson learned. I started to use a calendar to help me manage my time better and prioritize dance practice. I realized that I could carve out time to prioritize creating my own original dance routine for senior auditions. I even started tracking my eating and sleeping habits to manage my physical wellness and mental health. It literally did wonders for my confidence, self-esteem and stamina. That was one of the first real times that I truly impressed myself. It sounds so cliche, but I didn't give up. I continued to pursue my passion, and I wanted all of my habits to reflect that; so, that's why I started using a calendar and tracking my sleeping and eating habits. I began to take dancing more seriously, and giving so much more myself to my art. I grew stronger as a dancer and more creative, as well. I started to challenge myself to think about dancing as healing. I have so many ideas about what dance can do for the mind body and spirit I am majoring in dance at Spelman this fall. Classes start August 21st, and I'm so excited to continue my studies prioritizing my own real passion. My accomplishment in high school really serves as a foundation to continue challenging myself to be the best dancer I can be for myself and my future career as a Dance movement therapist. Often it is said that being well-known and making grand gestures are prerequisites for leaving a legacy. Well if that is the case, then I plan to work so my impact can be seen through the positive transformation and healing experienced by the people I serve. Sounds, cheesy! I know, but it's my truth. After Spelman, I want to work as a Dance Movement Therapist (DMT). Through movement and dance therapy, DMTs support individuals to enhance and strengthen emotional, cognitive, physical and social well-being as well as connection with the body. I'm drawn to the work of a DMT because I believe it is a great way for me to be of service and to give back to my community. Dance therapy can be a great benefit for individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma or even substance abuse. I am not clinically or professionally trained just yet, but I have seen first hand the impact music and dance movement has had on someone very close to me who suffers from anxiety and depression. My Mom suffers from anxiety and bouts of depression. Her anxiety may not ever go away; so, she's learned to live above it through dance and movement. DMTs provide opportunities for people to explore their identities and tell their stories through movement, which encourages diversity and inclusivity in the community. DMTs engage in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the importance of mental health care and promote access to therapy services within the community. That is the legacy and joy I want to spread into my community.

As a photographer, I see the world through my lens. I carry around my camera everywhere as I go. I document everything that catches my eye- even the simple things. Most recently, I've been taking my camera to various places I've never been before. Last February, I visited Japan with my family. I made sure to capture the adversity of the culture, people, and history. I began to see how big the world truly was. At that moment, I knew that my photography wasn't just an outlet of creative expression for me, but it could be used to educate and inspire others. I shared the photographs I took with classmates, teachers, and family. I used it to showcase the culture and beauty of an unfamiliar place. This experience left me believing I could use my art for the greater good. As I continue to study and learn more about my art over the next couple of years, I plan to tell a story through my photographs. I aspire to capture different cultures and spread awareness of diverse subjects most people are unfamiliar with. I want to tie my cultural roots to my art and display the various obstacles and adversity my people face back home in Nicaragua. My art is simply a mere reflection of the lives of others. While this can evoke emotions in many, it can also alert those who can help or educate. While I continue to document, my photographs will tell a story without words. I believe my art can bring people together and surely create a better understanding of numerous cultures and challenges being faced in their everyday lives. To continue, my photography can be used to raise awareness on several different humanitarian issues. I strive to travel to different places and document the lives of hundreds of people in hopes of others gaining apprehension as well as shifting my perspective on the world. A big factor in my work is helping others. In everything I do, I want to give back. From an economic factor, I aim to give back to the people I will document. I aspire to create a charity or allow other charities to be a great factor in what I do. In the future, I hope to start an arts foundation, in which I can help the lives of countless people and families across the globe. Through this, their stories can be told and heard but they also gain a little help from the world. To conclude, I am a long way from my goals and aspirations. However, I am on the path to achieving them. As I continue creating, learning, and communicating, my intentions remain on the ability to positively impact others. I make every effort to not just impact my community but a bigger one too. My passion has been an immense factor in my life, and I want to share it with others. With every initiative I take toward my dream, I'll make sure I impact, inspire, and educate others.

Dance is vital to my life. It has allowed me to express, create, connect, and showcase to many people. I am passionate about expanding my artistry, technique, and becoming more knowledgeable in a wide variety of dance genres within the next four years. I plan to attend and participate in many dance classes, performances, workshops, and collaboration projects with peers. I am also looking forward to performing repertoire by professional artists, as well as creating my own dance choreography. By continually refining my artistry, I intend to evolve as a dancer as well as a choreographer with the ability to convey stories and emotions through movement. The study of psychology has been an interest of mine since I was 11 after attending sessions with a psychologist for several months. Though I was not too fond of the sessions at the time, I grew to love the scientific study which has influenced my decision to double major in dance and psychology. I aim to work with clinical psychologists, conduct research, and engage in the required coursework as a psychology major. I am eager to deepen my understanding of the human mind and intertwine my dance pursuits with the knowledge I will gain from studying psychology. My ultimate goal is to obtain a Ph.D. in psychology, which will enable me to offer counseling and mental health resources. Choreography is a creative opportunity which allows me to intersect my admiration for dance with my interest in psychology. Within the next four years, I plan to investigate the psychological aspects of creating choreography to convey emotions and narratives. I have already had two opportunities to choreograph on my peers at my dance school which has given me insight on the choreographic process. But, I am confident that as I explore dance and psychology at a collegiate level I will grasp a higher understanding of how I can create and convey my chosen ideas to audiences. I intend to continue creating original works on my peers and dancers outside of my community and present my work in theaters in front of a wide range of audiences. Community service is also very important to me. Growing up, I was taught the significance of helping less fortunate people, and began servicing my community and families across the United States at the ripe age of 8. I grew to love giving back and helping people and I am confident that I will continue to encounter people who require assistance throughout my college experience. My goal is to help those in need access necessities they may lack. After completing my four year education as an undergraduate scholar and obtaining a BFA in dance and Bachelor’s degree in psychology, I aspire to join a professional dance company, choreograph for dance companies, advocate for mental health and give back to those in need by starting my own non-profit organization specifically designed to cater to people of color who are experiencing homelessness, who have incarcerated or absent parents or simply in need of assistance. Later in my career I would like to do postgraduate studies to obtain my Masters and Ph.D. in psychology. I believe I will have many incredible accomplishments which fuel me to stand by my goals and strong belief of my bright future ahead.

As an aspiring artist, I have always been drawn to creative expression and its power to bring joy and healing to people's lives. For me, art is not just a hobby, but a passion that I hope to turn into a career. Drawing is a therapeutic activity for me, which helps me alleviate stress and anxiety. Whenever I find myself in challenging situations, I turn to drawing as a way to escape and find peace of mind. Through the process of creating art, I can channel my emotions and express myself in a way that words cannot. When I'm feeling overwhelmed or unable to articulate myself verbally, I turn to my art as a way of processing my feelings and conveying them to the world. Whether I'm working with paint, pencil, or digital tools, I always strive to create works that are rich in detail and deeply evocative, so that others may see a part of themselves reflected in my art as well. I believe that my work can serve as a source of entertainment and therapy for others, allowing them to find peace and inspiration in my creations. As I look around the world, I can't help but notice the alarming rate of poor mental health. With a career in art therapy, I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for my clients. I believe that the arts can be a powerful tool for healing, and I work closely with my clients to identify the artistic approach that will work best for them. Whether it's through painting, music, or other forms of artistic expression, I am dedicated to helping my clients find the pathway that will lead them to greater mental health and well-being. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care, and I am committed to doing my part to make that a reality. By working with my clients to explore the creative potential within themselves, I hope to help them discover new ways to cope with the challenges they face and find greater joy and fulfillment in their lives. Expanding my understanding of human behavior and perceptions will allow me to contribute more effectively to the field of art therapy. I am eager to learn and apply this knowledge toward providing accessible and impactful treatment options for everyone. Receiving this education would be a crucial step towards achieving my long-cherished dream of spreading awareness about the healing capabilities of art and psychology. I strive to help others in the way art has helped me, the way art can help people express themselves, communicate their feelings, and connect with others on a deeper level is what I feel is needed in the world. However, I also understand that art therapy is still an under-utilized field, and many people are not aware of the therapeutic benefits of art. With this scholarship, I would be able to pursue my education in art therapy and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to help people in need. I believe that by sharing my art and the psychology behind it, I can contribute to healing our nation, one person at a time. Through my work, I hope to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being and inspire others to pursue their passions and dreams.

At the tender age of 7, I was captivated by my grandmother's meticulous crafting of a garment. As her nimble fingers danced across the fabric, transforming it into a breathtaking masterpiece, I was filled with indescribable awe and wonder. This unforgettable memory has instilled in me a profound admiration for the world of fashion, fabric, and design that will forever be etched into the depths of my soul. Watching my grandmother design and create a gorgeous prom dress for my cousin served as a catalyst for a lifelong passion that has led me on a remarkable journey toward a career in fashion and costume design. As a fashion and costume designer, I have a unique opportunity to celebrate and promote cultural identity by incorporating elements that reflect a particular culture's traditions, heritage, and values. Growing up in a multicultural home as a Biracial and Afro-Caribbean individual has given me a deep appreciation for the importance of cultural representation in the fashion industry. Through my work, I aim to inspire others by telling stories and conveying emotions. I can use colors, textures, and patterns to create visually striking costumes that capture the audience's attention. As a senior in high school, I was voted best dress. I received this honor just due to self-expression. I wear clothes that are second-hand and handmade. My designs aim to celebrate diversity, promote inclusivity, and highlight the beauty in differences. As a designer, I am committed to promoting self-expression, uniqueness, and self-empowerment, particularly among young women. This is a cause that I am deeply passionate about and intend to pursue as a career. I love watching movies and binge-watching shows. We often hear the statement Art imitating life, the field of fashioned costume design sparks wonder, increases awareness, and creates dialogue.  I believe that pursuing a career in fashion and costume design provides an incredible opportunity to raise awareness about important social issues. I can incorporate symbolism and storytelling to spark meaningful conversations through my designs. Fashion and costume design is a powerful tool for communicating cultural identity through symbolic elements. As an artist, I can create garments that reflect cultural and racial appropriations by incorporating colors, patterns, and symbols that hold deep meaning in particular cultures. These designs would convey a deeper meaning and represent cultural values and beliefs, celebrating diversity and facilitating a deeper understanding and appreciation of different traditions. As a biracial designer with Afro-Caribbean heritage, I am eager to use my platform to promote diversity and representation in the fashion industry. By creating costumes that celebrate different cultures and body types, I hope to break stereotypes and showcase the beauty of diversity. Ultimately, fashion and costume design is a means to evoke emotions and inspire positive change, fostering a sense of unity and acceptance within our communities.