user profile avatar

Akeelah Dunkley

715

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

My life goal is to create meaningful and impactful designs that enhance user experiences and connect people through visual storytelling. I am passionate about UI/UX design, graphic design, and tattoo design, particularly how perspectives and functionality come together to shape the way we interact with both technology and art. Studying design abroad is part of my journey to gain diverse perspectives, refine my skills, and bring fresh, innovative ideas to my work. I am a great candidate because I am dedicated, creative, and always eager to learn. I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and constantly push myself to improve. My ability to think critically, empathize with users, and translate complex ideas into intuitive designs sets me apart. Whether designing digital interfaces or permanent artwork on skin, I strive to create designs that are both visually striking and deeply personal. I thrive in collaborative environments, but I am also highly self-motivated, always seeking ways to refine my craft and make a difference through design.

Education

Treasure Coast High School

High School
2021 - 2025
  • GPA:
    3.5

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
    • Visual and Performing Arts, General
    • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Graphic Design

    • Dream career goals:

    • Student

      Treasure coast highschool
      2021 – 20243 years
    • Student

      Treasure coast high school
      2021 – 20232 years
    • Student

      Cilo Camp
      2020 – Present5 years
    • Student

      Treasure coast high school
      2022 – Present3 years

    Arts

    • Treasure coast High school

      Art Criticism
      2021 – 2024
    • Treasure coast High school

      Graphic Art
      2022 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Boys & Girls Club- Martin County — staff
      2022 – 2024
    • Public Service (Politics)

      Elite Motors — Worker
      2024 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Success Beyond Borders
    The screen fades in from black to reveal a sun-drenched artist's studio. Large skylights filter golden light, illuminating swathes of color splashed across the floor and walls—canvases of all sizes leaning against every available surface. The camera glides smoothly through the space, showcasing the beautifully chaotic environment filled with paint tubes, brushes in various states of wear, and sketches pinned haphazardly to a corkboard. It is a world alive with creativity, a reflection of my passions and aspirations. I am standing in front of a massive blank canvas, my heart racing with anticipation. This is where my journey begins. The studio feels both familiar and foreign; I’ve poured countless hours into this space, each moment a brushstroke paving my path. With a deep breath, I dip my brush into the vibrant palette laid before me, a swirl of blues, reds, and yellows beckoning me to create. Today, I’m not just painting—I’m sharing my vision, my dreams, and my struggles with the world. The camera zooms in on my hand as the brush glides over the canvas, leaving behind vivid strokes that flow and intertwine, forming abstract shapes that represent the myriad emotions within me. A close-up of my eyes reveals the flicker of determination and excitement as I focus on translating the chaos in my mind onto the canvas. The studio is quiet except for the soft swish of the brush and my steady breath, a whispering promise that manifestation is within reach. Flashbacks weave into the scene—memories of art classes, afternoons spent sketching under the shade of trees, and the palpable thrill when I created something that resonated deeply. Yet, amid those happy moments, shadows lurk—self-doubt, criticism, the voices of those who told me art was a pipe dream. The pull of fear has haunted me, whispering that perhaps my passion wasn’t practical, leading me to question every stroke, every color choice. Back in the present, the camera pulls away to reveal the canvas coming to life, but my heart races as doubt creeps back in, threatening to overshadow my creative flow. I glance down at the palette, a landscape of potential before me. I remind myself that every artist has felt this weight, the struggle between inspiration and self-doubt. I channel that fight into my brush as I mix colors fiercely, each hue a testament to my resilience. As I step back to admire the emerging piece, a wave of vulnerability washes over me. This artwork isn’t just painted on canvas; it is a memoir of my journey—each curve and contour reflecting my triumphs and struggles. I want to create something that resonates not only within me but with others, that invites them into the colorful tapestry of my life. The camera shifts perspective, showing my palette overflowing with color. The juxtaposition of chaos and harmony mirrors my existence—a journey filled with interwoven dreams and fears. A vibrant red for the passion that fuels me, a serene blue for the calm moments of clarity, and a rich green for growth. I begin layering these colors, building depth. I know that beauty lies in the process, in the messiness of creation. And with that realization, freedom floods through me. Suddenly, the studio doors swing open, and a group of curious faces enter, their eyes wide with admiration. They’re a mix of aspiring artists, seasoned creators, and curious onlookers, each seeking inspiration. “What’s the story behind this piece?” one asks, pointing to the canvas. I feel my heart swell, invigorated by the chance to connect. “This is a glimpse into the journey of finding one’s voice through art,” I reply, my voice steady, filled with passion. “It represents every trial and error, every moment of joy and doubt. It’s about embracing the beauty in imperfection and the importance of expressing what lies within us.” The group leans in as I share the meaning behind each stroke, laughter and discussions filling the vibrant studio. As we paint together, the space transforms into a sanctuary of expression. Each person adds their unique touch, creating an energetic mural. I see them let go of insecurities and embrace joy in creation. The camera captures their smiles, showing art as a true communal journey. As the sun sets, I admire the vibrant mosaic we've created—a testament to our growth. I realize the journey is about connection and expression. The screen fades to black, revealing “Brushstrokes of a Dream,” a reminder that our dreams are within reach, waiting to be painted into existence.
    Lewis Hollins Memorial Art Scholarship
    Art has always been a deeply personal journey for me, a reflection of my inner thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through my artwork, I hope to achieve a sense of connection—both with myself and with others. My aspiration is to create pieces that resonate with viewers, prompting them to reflect, feel, and engage in conversations that matter. I want my art to serve as a bridge between my inner world and the external one, opening windows to the complexities of life that we all navigate. At the heart of my artistic pursuit is the desire to explore and communicate universal themes such as love, loss, identity, and resilience. I believe that art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, which is why I strive to infuse my work with emotional authenticity. Each piece I create is a snapshot of a moment in time, an expression of my thoughts and feelings that I hope others can see themselves in. I want my audience to find their own narratives in my work, feeling a sense of recognition and understanding that fosters connection. As I envision my future relationship with my artwork, I see it evolving in tandem with my personal growth. Art is not static; it reflects the ever-changing landscape of my thoughts and feelings. I anticipate that my style and medium might shift as I delve deeper into various aspects of my identity and experiences. This transformation intrigues me—every new phase offers the opportunity to experiment with different materials, techniques, and themes. I am excited about the creative possibilities that lie ahead, whether it be through painting, mixed media, or other forms of expression that resonate with my evolving self. Moreover, I hope to use my artwork as a catalyst for change in my community. I envision hosting workshops and collaborative projects that invite others to explore their creativity, share their stories, and engage in meaningful dialogue. By fostering an environment where art is accessible and inclusive, I believe we can cultivate a space for healing and mutual understanding. I am particularly passionate about working with underrepresented voices, helping amplify narratives that deserve to be heard. My dream is to create art that not only conveys my truths but also uplifts and supports the collective experience of others. I look forward to collaborating with artists to exchange ideas and push my creative boundaries. Embracing my artistic journey as a lifelong process, I want to find inspiration in the world around me and celebrate the experiences that shape my work. Ultimately, I hope my art reflects a life well-lived and the connections I've made.
    Christal Carter Creative Arts Scholarship
    Art has been a significant part of my life for as long as I can remember. The moment I picked up a paintbrush for the first time, I felt a connection that was both exhilarating and profound. My passion for the medium of painting, in particular, stems from its ability to express the inexpressible. It's like having a conversation with colors and forms, where every stroke carries a piece of my emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Painting allows me to explore the depths of my creativity. The canvas is a space of limitless possibilities; it can transform a fleeting idea into a tangible piece of art. I find immense joy in mixing colors and discovering unexpected combinations that evoke different moods or feelings. Whether it’s the calming blues of a serene landscape or the fiery reds of an abstract piece, each color tells a story, and I am the narrator. My art has enriched others' lives, with feedback from viewers reaffirming its transformative power. I find joy in teaching painting to children and watching them express emotions and creativity through their creations. Each class highlights art's ability to foster confidence and imagination. On a personal level, painting has been my therapy. The process of creating art allows me to unwind and connect with myself on a deeper level. When I’m in front of a canvas, I enter a meditative state that strips away the noise of daily life. It provides a sanctuary where I can confront my thoughts and feelings, processing them in a way that feels safe and organic. I’ve noticed that the more I paint, the clearer my mind becomes. This practice of reflection through art not only enhances my life but also helps me cope with the ups and downs that life throws my way. Moreover, my passion for art extends beyond just creating. I enjoy exploring other mediums such as sculpture and ceramics, and I appreciate the diverse forms through which artistic expression can flourish. Each medium offers a unique challenge and opportunity for innovation. I often incorporate different techniques into my paintings, blending styles and ideas, which keeps my work fresh and engaging. In conclusion, my passion for painting and art as a whole runs deep. It has enriched my life in countless ways, from personal growth and self-discovery to impacting the lives of others around me. The joy I find in sharing my art and inspiring others fuels my determination to keep creating. Whether it’s through a vibrant canvas, a class filled with eager learners, or simply a shared moment of appreciation for beauty, art remains a powerful force for connection and transformation, both for myself and for those I touch along the way.
    Catherine (Kay) Williams Memorial Arts Scholarship
    The inspiration behind my artwork comes from a deep exploration of identity and transformation. I wanted to create a piece that embodies the idea of duality—the coexistence of nature and humanity, fantasy and reality, and the transition from childhood innocence to the complexities of adulthood. By merging a human face with the elements of a strawberry, I sought to highlight how our identities are often shaped by both internal and external influences. In this piece, the fragmented face represents the various aspects of personality, suggesting that we are often torn between different parts of ourselves. The strawberry hood or helmet serves as a metaphor for how our experiences can mold us, while the darker tones hint at the underlying struggles we face in accepting our true selves. I aimed to evoke a sense of mystery and contemplation, inviting viewers to engage with the emotions embedded in the expression and to question the story behind the image. Drawing inspiration from surrealism, I wanted to create an unexpected juxtaposition that elicits strong emotions. The softness of the strawberry, traditionally associated with sweetness and youth, contrasts with the more serious undertones of the sketch. This interplay speaks to the complexities of growing up, where the brightness of childhood gives way to the weighty realities of adult life. Through this artwork, I also wanted to reflect on the relationship between humans and nature. By incorporating an organic element into a human form, I hope to underline our intrinsic connection to the natural world, even in a modern context that often tries to sever that bond. It’s a reminder that we are part of a larger ecosystem and that nature plays a vital role in shaping our identities. Overall, the emotional depth I aimed to capture in this piece invites the viewer to immerse themselves in its narrative. The subject’s contemplative expression compels reflection on the internal conflicts we all face, prompting a dialogue about self-acceptance and the struggles that come with it. Through this artwork, I aspire to evoke not just observation but rather a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity and the journey of transformation. From the outset, I wanted to challenge the conventional boundaries of identity by portraying a fragmented face. This fragmentation represents the multifaceted nature of our personalities—how we can feel torn between various aspects of ourselves. Each section of the face signifies a different part of our identity: the playful innocence reminiscent of childhood, the serious demeanor often associated with adulthood, and the struggles we face in harmonizing these elements. The strawberry serves as an emblem of sweetness and nostalgia, calling forth memories of youth and the carefree moments that shaped our early experiences. Yet I purposely contrasted this bright imagery with darker tones within the sketch, signaling the more somber realities that accompany the transition into adulthood.
    WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship
    Art has an incredible ability to inspire, connect, and transform communities. As a passionate graphic designer and traditional artist, I believe that my creative skills can make a significant positive impact on the world. My journey into the realm of art began when I was a child, doodling in the margins of my notebooks. Over time, this simple pastime evolved into a profound passion for visual storytelling. One of the most impactful experiences I had was during high school when I volunteered to design promotional materials for a local charity event. This opportunity allowed me to combine my love for graphic design with a cause close to my heart to inspire and assist other artists I run into by creating eye-catching posters and social media graphics. I plan to use my skills in graphic design to promote social issues that are important to me. One issue I'm particularly passionate about is environmental conservation. I envision creating a series of digital illustrations that showcase the beauty of nature while also emphasizing the urgent need for its protection. By sharing these artworks on various platforms, I hope to inspire others to appreciate and take action to preserve our planet. In addition to digital art, I am committed to exploring traditional art forms such as painting and mural creation. I believe that public art can play a vital role in revitalizing neighborhoods and bringing people together. My goal is to collaborate with local organizations to create murals that reflect the culture and history of the community. These vibrant pieces will beautify the environment and serve as a source of pride and inspiration for residents. Moreover, I aim to teach art workshops for children and young adults in underserved areas. By providing access to art education, I hope to empower individuals to express themselves creatively. Art can be a powerful outlet for emotions and ideas, and I want to help others discover their unique voices through various artistic mediums. Ultimately, my vision is to use my art to foster connection, raise awareness, and inspire change. Whether through graphic design, traditional painting, or community projects, I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the world around me. With creativity as my guide, I believe that I can contribute to a brighter future where art catalyzes understanding and unity.
    Akeelah Dunkley Student Profile | Bold.org