From the moment I picked up a pencil, art has woven itself into the fabric of my life. Creating art is not merely a hobby for me; it’s a profound expression of who I am and what I cherish. My passion for art is vividly expressed through my realistic portraits of people. Capturing the intricate details of a person’s face—each line, shadow, and subtle shift in expression—brings me immense joy and satisfaction. The challenge of translating these nuances onto paper is both exhilarating and meditative. When I see a portrait coming to life, it feels as though I’m breathing energy into the artwork, and this connection is deeply fulfilling. Drawing realistic portraits allows me to engage with my subjects in a unique and personal way. Each portrait is an opportunity to delve into the character and essence of the person I am depicting. I observe and recreate the small details that make each individual unique, from the gentle curve of a smile to the depth in their eyes. This process not only sharpens my technical skills but also deepens my appreciation for the complexities of human expression. There is a special joy in seeing a face emerge on the page, and knowing that I have captured a piece of that person’s story. Beyond portraits, my artistic passion extends into various other realms. I thrive on the freedom to experiment with different subjects and techniques. Whether I’m delving into abstract art, illustrating whimsical scenes, or exploring new mediums, I embrace every opportunity to push my creative boundaries. Art is my playground, a space where I can explore new ideas and techniques without limitation. This experimentation keeps my artwork fresh and exciting, and it continually inspires me to discover new aspects of my creativity. Art is a vital part of my daily life, infusing it with color, texture, and meaning. It provides a profound sense of purpose and joy, and it enables me to connect more deeply with the world around me. Each piece I create reflects my dedication and love for the craft, and I am constantly inspired by the endless possibilities that art offers. For me, art is not just an activity—it is an essential aspect of my identity and a source of profound personal fulfillment. I am incredibly grateful for the chance to express myself through my work and to share my passion with others.

@ag.artofficial

Helping others become stronger and confident in their abilities to improve their scholarly performance fulfills the giving side of me. I have been a mentor, as part of the Academic Mentor Program, during my junior and senior years of high school and specialize in English and Biology subjects for the Granada Hills Charter High School TK-12 community. Within the TK-12 community, students connect with me not just for academic means but also for peer support during their school experience. I guide ninth to twelfth graders with writing skills and essay prompts in the After School Writing Center, and meanwhile, assist a particular group of seventh-grade students with all middle school subjects. I am also an in-class mentor, working with ninth-grade Biology students. One time a ninth-grade student who was seeking feedback on her essay through the Online Writing Lab sent me an email saying, "I don't know if you remember checking one of my essays, but I just wanted to say thank you so much! It really helped me and I really appreciate it!". I was thrilled to know that I supported someone's learning, and that alone is powerful. Mentoring my peers in a school community opened the doors for a more communicative, supportive, motivated, and confident me. I recognize that I have inspired other students as well, encouraging their self-reliance in understanding the inner works of science and the artistry of expression in writing. I have made many friends through the Academic Mentor Program, connecting with other mentors in both the English and Math centers. I thoroughly enjoy being one of the many leaders coming from my Granada, not only as an academic mentor but also as a guiding hand and supporting friend to others in our society.