Josh Edwards Memorial Scholarship For Creative Artists

When I first picked up a paintbrush, I knew art would become more than a hobby—it would become how I organize and investigate the environment around me. Painting has always been my clearest language, allowing me to express emotions and tell stories that words can’t always capture. As someone who identifies as queer, I’ve found in art a space where I can exist with full authenticity. Pursuing a major in the arts is not just about developing technical skills—it’s about building a life centered on creativity, truth, and connection. My name is William Creel, and I’m from Wilmington, North Carolina. I recieved my Associates in Fine Arts at Cape Fear Community College and choose to continue my education at the Maryland Institute College of Art. I specialize in oil painting, particularly portraiture and figurative work, and my style draws heavily from the drama and intimacy of the Baroque period. I often incorporate religious imagery, literary references, and elements of fashion to explore themes like gender identity, emotional vulnerability, and queer visibility. For me, art is a form of storytelling and resistance—an opportunity to uplift narratives that are too often ignored. Studying the arts allows me to refine my craft, gain historical and theoretical insight, and engage with a creative community that challenges me to grow. I’m eager to use my education to not only improve as a visual artist but also prepare for a career in curatorial work, gallery management, and arts education. I envision myself organizing exhibitions and projects that center queer and BIPOC artists, helping reshape how stories are told in public spaces. I also hope to work with youth, especially those without access to arts education, to show them that their voices and visions matter. Beyond my career, art will always remain central to my personal life. My studio is a space of both solitude and connection; my studio is a place where I reflect, experiment, and honor my relationships. Portraiture, in particular, is my love language; painting people I care about helps me preserve moments of intimacy and appreciation. As I study full-time and work part-time, I also do portraiture commissions as both a means of sharing my passion and developing my skills as a painter. Ultimately, majoring in the arts is my way of aligning education with identity. I want to live with purpose, create with care, and use my work to build empathy and inspire dialogue. Art has given me a voice—and I intend to use it.