![user profile avatar](https://static.bold.org/profilePictures/c6742b8c38dd4c94ac01816a303e74ae.webp)
Hobbies and interests
Acting And Theater
American Sign Language (ASL)
Animation
Art
Art History
Ballet
Chemistry
Cars and Automotive Engineering
Community Service And Volunteering
Dance
Tutoring
Travel And Tourism
Skateboarding
Reading
Adult Fiction
Biography
Fantasy
Folklore
Horror
Novels
Suspense
I read books daily
Chase Meadors
515
Bold Points1x
Finalist![user profile avatar](https://static.bold.org/profilePictures/c6742b8c38dd4c94ac01816a303e74ae.webp)
Chase Meadors
515
Bold Points1x
FinalistEducation
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
Minors:
- History
Front Range Community College
Associate's degree programMajors:
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
Colorado Early College Fort Collins
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Arts
Dream career goals:
Future Interests
Advocacy
Politics
Volunteering
Entrepreneurship
Janean D. Watkins Overcoming Adversity Scholarship
Embarking on a journey of artistic creation and education, I find myself propelled by a dual passion—to weave the fabric of artistry and to be a beacon of knowledge for others. This odyssey has not been without its challenges, as I navigate the intersectionality of being poor, queer, and disabled. Yet, within the crucible of adversity, I have forged a path illuminated by resilience, creativity, and a fervent commitment to change.
My artistic endeavors are not merely expressions of creativity; they are a testament to the power of overcoming adversity. As a person existing at the confluence of poverty, queerness, and disability, the act of creating art becomes a form of defiance against societal expectations and limitations. The canvas becomes a space where I can transcend the constraints imposed by external circumstances, a realm where my imagination is boundless and unshackled by the challenges that accompany my identity.
Art, for me, is a tool of empowerment and a means of reclaiming agency. It serves as a medium to communicate the intricacies of my experiences, allowing me to navigate and articulate the complexities of being at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities. Through visual storytelling, I strive to dismantle stereotypes, challenge preconceptions, and foster a more inclusive understanding of the diverse narratives that exist within the realms of poverty, queerness, and disability.
Education, too, becomes a vital aspect of my journey—one that transcends the boundaries of traditional academia. In sharing my knowledge and experiences, I aim to create spaces for dialogue and understanding. As a person who identifies as queer and disabled, I recognize the importance of dismantling misconceptions and fostering a culture of acceptance. Through workshops, talks, and collaborative initiatives, I seek to empower others with the tools to challenge societal norms, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, not shunned.
Overcoming adversity is not a singular feat but an ongoing process, and my journey is punctuated by the resilience that has allowed me to navigate the challenges posed by being poor, queer, and disabled. In the face of financial constraints, I have learned to leverage creativity as a resource, using unconventional materials and methods to bring my artistic visions to life. My queerness has become a source of strength, an identity that I proudly embrace in a world that often seeks to marginalize. My disability, rather than a hindrance, has become a wellspring of innovation, pushing me to find alternative approaches to artistic expression and education.
Ultimately, my goals of creating art and educating others are deeply intertwined with my identity and the adversity I have faced. They are a response to the societal barriers that seek to limit the potential of those who exist at the crossroads of poverty, queerness, and disability. In weaving my narrative through art and education, I aspire to not only defy expectations but to inspire others to embrace their unique identities, overcome challenges, and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Polly Addison Art Scholarship
Navigating the intersectionality of poverty and disability is a profound journey, marked by challenges that often remain invisible to those who haven't experienced it firsthand. As someone who grapples with the daily realities of both conditions, my life unfolds as a delicate balance between resilience and the relentless weight of societal barriers.
Given this background, advocacy becomes not just a choice but a necessity. The need to raise awareness about the challenges faced by those who exist at this intersection becomes a driving force. It is a call to dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate the cycle of poverty and limit the opportunities for those with disabilities. It's about fostering a society that values the inherent worth and potential of every individual, regardless of their economic status or physical abilities.
Politics is not merely a thematic backdrop to my artistic endeavors; it is an active participant, influencing not only the subject matter but also the very essence of my creative process. The intricate dance between politics and art unfolds in various dimensions, and as I delve deeper into this symbiotic relationship, the layers of my expression become more nuanced and intricate.
The pulsating rhythm of political landscapes acts as a heartbeat to my creative muse. I find myself captivated by the ebb and flow of societal currents, with each political ripple resonating through my artistic consciousness. Expanding on the notion of social commentary, my artistic exploration extends beyond immediate events to delve into historical precedents and futuristic possibilities. The evolving tapestry of political discourse becomes an endless source of inspiration, allowing my work to bridge temporal gaps and engage with the timeless questions that politics raises about the human condition.
Moreover, the emotional rollercoaster induced by political happenings catalyzes a profound introspection, birthing a kaleidoscope of emotions that find their expression on my canvas. The turbulence of political climates becomes a crucible for self-discovery, transforming my art into a mirror reflecting not only the external world but also the internal landscapes of my beliefs and values. Each brushstroke becomes a vehicle for catharsis, transmuting the chaos of politics into a visually eloquent manifestation of my innermost thoughts and feelings.
As I navigate the intricate interplay of politics, identity, and cultural narratives, my art takes on a role beyond mere commentary. It evolves into a dynamic platform for dialogue, challenging preconceptions and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities inherent in discussions surrounding race, gender, and nationality. The political landscape, in this sense, becomes a multifaceted prism through which I refract the diverse hues of human experiences.
Furthermore, the transformative power of art as a catalyst for activism gains prominence in my creative journey. Motivated by a fervent desire to contribute to positive social change, I use my artistic endeavors not only to reflect the world but also to actively participate in shaping it. The canvas becomes a visual manifesto, a call to action urging viewers to engage with the world in a more empathetic and informed manner.
In conclusion, the dynamic force of politics not only shapes the contours of my artistic inspiration but permeates every fiber of my creative being. The interwoven threads of social commentary, personal expression, identity exploration, and activism form a rich tapestry that transcends the limitations of thematic categorization. My art, fueled by the ever-changing political landscape, emerges as a testament to the profound connection between creativity and the evolving world around me, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of exploration and introspection. In this way, my artistic endeavors become a conduit for societal reflection and a catalyst for positive change, emphasizing the enduring impact of politics on the intricate tapestry of human creativity.
Allison Thomas Swanberg Memorial Scholarship
Participating in community service has been a transformative journey, weaving a tapestry of impact and connection that extends across various facets of my life. My involvement in NoCoSplash, the Fostering Success Program, and protests has become a cornerstone of my commitment to fostering positive change in both local and global communities.
NoCoSplash, a local initiative aimed at creating safe spaces for young queer people, has been a particularly meaningful avenue for me to contribute to the well-being of my community. Through organizing and participating in community outreach events, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of creating safe spaces for exploration, queerness, and community.
The Fostering Success Program holds a special place in my heart, representing a commitment to supporting individuals navigating the challenges of the foster care system and other independent backgrounds. Having witnessed the resilience and potential within these young minds, I actively participate in mentorship programs and outreach initiatives. The goal is not only to provide academic support but also to foster a sense of belonging and encouragement. Through one-on-one mentoring, I've had the privilege of being a sounding board for aspirations and concerns, helping to guide these individuals toward realizing their full potential. The Fostering Success Program isn't just about academic success; it's about nurturing a support system that transcends institutional barriers, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.
In addition to these structured programs, my involvement in protests serves as a testament to my belief in the power of collective action. Protests provide a platform to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard, addressing systemic issues and advocating for change. Whether it's marching in solidarity with movements for social justice, environmental sustainability, or human rights, participating in protests allows me to actively contribute to shaping the discourse around issues that matter to me. It's not just about raising awareness but about being part of a larger force that demands accountability and change. Through protests, I've witnessed the unifying power of community, where diverse voices converge to form a powerful call for justice and equality.
Community service is important to me because it transcends individual achievements or contributions. It's about weaving a fabric of interconnectedness, where each thread represents a commitment to the well-being and progress of the collective. Through NoCoSplash, the Fostering Success Program, and protests, I've discovered the profound impact of community engagement—it's a reciprocal journey of growth, empowerment, and building bridges that span beyond immediate horizons. As I continue on this path, I am reminded that the true strength of a community lies in its ability to uplift every member, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective well-being.
Terry Masters Memorial Scholarship
My biggest inspirations as an artist are drawn from the political and economic world around me. My art largely focuses on marginalized identities and activism. One significant avenue through which the political world infiltrates my art is by providing a rich source of social commentary. The issues and events that dominate political discourse become a potent wellspring of inspiration. Whether it's the impassioned protests against social injustice or the nuanced debates surrounding policy decisions, these real-world narratives fuel my artistic imagination. Through my work, I strive to channel the collective consciousness, offering a visual dialogue on the pressing matters that permeate society. My world is highly political every day, which inspires me relentlessly.