Painting, drawing, coloring, writing its all they ways I can express a deeper part of myself and I wouldn't know what to do without the ability to create a piece of art. Going through the ups and downs of this life has pushed me to a dark space and the only way I got out was through my faith and my family. Although I got better those feelings that I carried through my depression didn't go away. I wasn't quite sure how I could express or share my story so when I joined an AP art class in senior year, I created my first piece of art that conveyed the call for help, what I couldn't voice out loud for the longest time. I had used colored pencil and gouache to paint a surrealistic portrait of myself sinking in the water. I wanted to convey the emotional numbness I had felt when the whole world was put on pause during the global pandemic. The blank stare contrast with the refracted lighting underwater was done on purpose. The concept of the painting was simple but every detail and brush stroke was releasing my old wounded feelings that were bottled within me. I then went on to create a total of 10 pieces for my AP portfolio that all included a unique meaning that I had always longed to express. As shy I was to admit that I went through something as dark as depression I felt like I accomplished to voice out that at one point of my life I needed help, I needed to hear that I was loved and that there is hope for me. When I finally submitted my portfolio I presented it to a dear friend of mine, thinking nothing of it she turned to me and told me something I will never forget. My artwork had inspired her and even though my art pieces revolved around me she could very much see herself in them. Being able to connect with my friend's own story through my artwork is something I am most grateful for. I hope to inspire many others to share their own story or to feel less lonely. Every step forward is progress and I wanted to highlight that in my portfolio but 10 pieces of artwork is not enough. There is so much more I need to share, so much more I need to give and I know that with this career in the arts I can make it. Primero Dios, I will become an art teacher that will inspire many other young people in their own goals and dreams in the arts. I will never stop sharing my story through art because creating art is a part of me and has helped me see the beauty of this world. I am very grateful to God that I was born with a love to create and that I can connect to others through their artwork. Thank you for reading my application and God bless you.