I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was a young 22 year-old and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” back home just to make some money and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. As time passed, my career aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books, but as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working very much, my finances took a hard hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without any transportation, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to cover the major expenses. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 50 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an author/illustrator. I have reapplied and gotten accepted into art school so that I can improve my painting, drawing, and graphic design skills, and also gain more knowledge about the illustration field. I wish that I could say that all of the financial hardships are part of my past, but the struggle to pay for my education is still just as difficult today as it was over 25 years ago. During the 2021-2022 school year, COVID restrictions forced me to be able to only take online art classes. It was a very challenging time for me, to say the least. Not only did I work a full-time job, but I was a full-time student as well. Having to find the balance between performing well at work and completing all of my school assignments on time was extremely stressful; but finding the resources to help pay for my education was the thing that almost pushed me to the edge. I could not turn to family or friends for help with the extra expenses, but fortunately, my supervisor helped me find some information about tuition assistance that was offered by the company. Ever since that academic year ended, I have not been able to attend the art school which is located in New York City. Considering that I am an out-of-state student, the tuition is multiplied by at least two times; and not to mention that my financial burden is coupled with the high cost of living in that particular city. With all of that to take in, I still choose to believe that all hope is not lost, and that resources will come from unexpected places so that I can pay for the rest of my education. At times, I think about my age, and I want to put my educational dreams aside and not return back to a college campus filled with bright-eyed, bushy-tailed Gen Z-ers. I was earnestly hoping to obtain my 2nd Bachelor's degree before I turned 50, but as usual, life never goes as planned. I am very passionate about learning and growing as an individual, so I will push past the embarrassment of being a non-traditional student and will give school my best. I still have something valuable to offer, and I will not stop striving for my goals until they are accomplished. I have two years of school left to complete, and if all goes well, I will be part of the graduating class of 2028. With all of the adversities that I have had to overcome, I believe that there is a great purpose for me to fulfill in life. Like the old saying goes, "Nothing good comes without a fight." There is a lost and dying world for me to reach with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and winning this scholarship will help me get closer to that goal without the burden of financial stress. I will continue to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus fun and interesting. Our children must be saved, and Jesus must be glorified!

Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art and creative writing as a career, I believe that God has chosen art and creative writing to pursue me as a calling. Illustration and storytelling are the evangelism tools that God has gifted me with to help minister to the lost and bring souls to Him. There is so much darkness in the world, and I aspire to use my work to express His hope, light, and love. As a believer in Jesus Christ, and as I walk out my purpose of being an author/illustrator, I recognize the lack of sound Bible-based reading material for our young children. My mission is to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus Christ not only fun, but interesting also. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I am here to offer kids hope and truth. Ultimately, I pray that my books will be a blessing to everyone (regardless of age) around the world. I am currently working on my second children's book. Like all of my work does, the book's message points people towards Jesus Christ. I have been told by many industry "professionals" to keep a children's book simple and not so wordy, and to not overdo it with using Scripture. But of course, I disregard all of that "advice" because first and foremost, I recognize the liar's voice who's speaking through them, and secondly, they didn't give me the heavenly calling. If the powers of darkness are going to be unapologetic with their wicked messages, then in no way will I be silent and allow their influence to be greater than mine. I will do as Jude commands us in the Bible and snatch people out of the fire.

Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. Next to God, nothing brings me more joy than being creative and seeing my work come to life. There is so much darkness and devastation in the world, and I aspire to use my work to express His hope, light, and love. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus Christ fun and interesting. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create. Although our young children are precious in the sight of the Lord, I believe that all of God’s children (regardless of age) are worth fighting for. Ultimately, I pray that my artwork will be a blessing to everyone around the world. I love to draw and paint portraits also, so I am searching for innovative ways to portray people’s likeness in a way that they experience the love of God. I am currently working on illustrating my second children's book. It is over 100 pages in length, and although it has a story line, vibrant illustrations are also included to help bring life to the words. This project has been over 10 years in the making. I have experienced several setbacks in my personal life which have contributed to the delay of this book's completion, but I am determined not to let anything hinder me from reaching my end goal of sharing this project with the world. Like all of my work does, the book's message points people towards Jesus Christ. I made a vow to God to be bold and unapologetic with proclaiming the Word. I have been told by many art "professionals" to keep a children's book simple and not so wordy, and to not overdo it with using Scripture. Of course, I dismissed all of that "advice" because first and foremost, they are not saved, and secondly, they didn't give me the heavenly calling. If the powers of darkness are going to be extra with their messages of lust, hate, violence, greed, and perversion, then in no way am I going to back down, give place to it, and let it influence this generation. I will do as Jude commands us in the Bible and snatch people out of the fire. I will be 50 years old at the beginning of the school year this fall. Never did I imagine that I would still be attempting to get a college degree at such an old age. Actually, if all goes as planned, this will be my second Bachelor's degree. I obtained my first college diploma in 1998 with aspirations of becoming a world-famous fashion designer of luxurious evening gowns, but those plans fell through very quickly. Financial restraints and physical sickness prevented me from pursuing my original dreams, but it was during those tough times that God revealed to me His true plan for my life. He wanted me to dedicate my artistic gifts to Him so that He could use them for His glory. In 2006, God spoke to me about writing and illustrating a children's book, and in 2008, I was fortunate enough to have it published and released. Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always searching for new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social media platforms and other technological means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign will help me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of traditional mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. Another thing that is helping me to grow as an artist is drawing subjects that are outside of the norm for me. Over the past few months, I've become interested in studying food: their different textures, rich colors, variety of sizes and shapes, and their unique smells and tastes. Learning how to capture those features on paper is a bit difficult at times, but as I continue to study food and work hard at refining my artistic skills, my work will reflect a unique style and aesthetic. I am excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist. Winning this scholarship will help lift a great financial burden off of my shoulders. Being an out-of-state student pushes the cost of my education through the roof. I often lose sleep wondering if I'll be able to effectively fulfill the will of God for me if I don't get the skills and training that I believe that I need . I have been attempting to go back to school for over two decades now, but because of personal health challenges, coupled with the lack of finances, I have had to place my dreams on hold. I didn't have the good fortune of knowing Mr. Thomas Rorie,Jr., but I can sense by the requirements of this scholarship that he was a man who honored God with his life. With the Lord's help, if I win this award, I will do my absolute best to put the money to good use and will help tell lost and dying souls about the wonderful saving power of Jesus Christ.

I grew up in a family that worshipped and served the Lord Jesus Christ, but my personal relationship with Him didn't seriously begin until I was almost 30 years old. When I was a child, my parents would hold family meetings to discuss certain issues affecting us as a whole, and then they would ask me to pray afterwards. I was so uncomfortable praying because I had never done it publicly before, but little did I know that those moments would be seeds that would take root in me, and I would grow up to become a woman who gets excited to pray and intercede. It was in college that my heart began to really get tender towards the Lord. Although I didn't always walk uprightly before Him when I lived on campus, I could sense His hand of protection over me, keeping me from many situations that should have destroyed my life. I never owned a personal Bible the entire four years while I was an undergraduate student, but I had a strong desire to want to own one and understand the Word for myself. On a Sunday morning during Christmas break my senior year of college, my family and I went to church service together. The preacher delivered a powerful message that cut me to the core, and it changed my life forever. I bawled like a baby and asked my mother to go with me to the front so I could commit my life to Jesus. Someone prayed with me at the altar, and after the service, I was very quiet during the entire ride back home. I was reflecting on what had just happened a few moments earlier. Since around 1998, God has been faithful to reveal Himself to me on a daily basis. From the moment I got my first Bible in the early 2000's, I have not been able to put it down. That in itself is a miracle because I'm not one to particularly care about reading any type of book! The Spirit of God prompted me to write an inspirational children's book in 2008, and now I am in the process of working on my second one. If you don't mind, I will take a few moments to tell you about the long, difficult journey I took towards becoming an author and illustrator. I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was a young 22 year-old and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My career aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books, but as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I have reapplied and gotten accepted to art school so that I can improve my painting, drawing, and graphic design skills, and gain more knowledge about the illustration field. With all of the adversities that I have had to overcome, I believe that there is a great purpose for me to fulfill in life. Like the old saying goes, "Nothing good comes without a fight." There is a lost and dying world for me to reach with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and winning this scholarship will help me get closer to that goal without the burden of financial stress. I will continue to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus fun and interesting. Our children must be saved, and Jesus must be glorified! Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always searching for new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social media platforms and other technological means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign will help me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of traditional mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. Another thing that is helping me to grow as an artist is drawing subjects that are outside of the norm for me. Over the past few months, I've become interested in studying food: their different textures, rich colors, variety of sizes and shapes, and their unique smells and tastes. Learning how to capture those features on paper is a bit difficult at times, but as I continue to study food and work hard at refining my artistic skills, my work will reflect a unique style and aesthetic. I am excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist. To see a sample of my some of my artwork, please visit my social media page: https://www.instagram.com/leelel.dawa

Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. Next to God, nothing brings me more joy than being creative and seeing my work come to life. There is so much darkness and devastation in the world, and I aspire to use my work to express hope, light, and love. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create. Although our young children are precious in the sight of the Lord, I believe that all of God’s children (regardless of age) are worth fighting for. Ultimately, I pray that my artwork will be a blessing to everyone around the world. I love to draw and paint portraits, so I am searching for innovative ways to portray people’s likeness in a way that they experience the love of God. I am currently working on illustrating my second children's book. It is over 100 pages in length, and although it has a story line, vibrant illustrations are also included to bring life to the words. This project has been over 10 years in the making. I have experienced several setbacks in my personal life which have contributed to the delay of this book's completion, but I am determined not to let anything hinder me from reaching my end goal of sharing this project with the world. Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always searching for new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social media platforms and other technological means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign will help me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of traditional mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. Another thing that is helping me to grow as an artist is drawing subjects that are outside of the norm for me. Over the past few months, I've become interested in studying food: their different textures, rich colors, variety of sizes and shapes, and their unique smells and tastes. Learning how to capture those features on paper is a bit difficult at times, but as I continue to study food and work hard at refining my artistic skills, my work will reflect a unique style and aesthetic. I am excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was a young 22 year-old and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My career aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books, but as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I have reapplied and got accepted to art school so that I can improve my painting, drawing, and graphic design skills, and gain more knowledge about the illustration field. With all of the adversities that I have had to overcome, I believe that there is a great purpose for me to fulfill in life. Like the old saying goes, "Nothing good comes without a fight." There is a lost and dying world for me to reach with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and winning this scholarship will help me get closer to that goal without the burden of financial stress. I will continue to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus fun and interesting. Our children must be saved, and Jesus must be glorified! Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always searching for new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social media platforms and other technological means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign will help me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of traditional mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. Another thing that is helping me to grow as an artist is drawing subjects that are outside of the norm for me. Over the past few months, I've become interested in studying food: their different textures, rich colors, variety of sizes and shapes, and their unique smells and tastes. Learning how to capture those features on paper is a bit difficult at times, but as I continue to study food and work hard at refining my artistic skills, my work will reflect a unique style and aesthetic. I am excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist. https://www.instagram.com/leelel.dawa

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was a young 22 year-old and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My career aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books, but as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I have reapplied and got accepted to art school so that I can improve my painting, drawing, and graphic design skills, and gain more knowledge about the illustration field. With all of the adversities that I have had to overcome, I believe that there is a great purpose for me to fulfill in life. Like the old saying goes, "Nothing good comes without a fight." There is a lost and dying world for me to reach with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and winning this scholarship will help me get closer to that goal without the burden of financial stress. I will continue to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus fun and interesting. Our children must be saved, and Jesus must be glorified!

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was a young 22 year-old and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My career aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books, but as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I have reapplied to art school so that I can improve my graphic design skills, and to gain more knowledge about the illustration field. Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of wholesome, Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about Jesus fun and interesting. In a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images, the youth need to know that there are better alternatives. Winning this scholarship will help me alleviate the financial burdens of education so that I can focus on sharpening my creative skills. Our children must be saved!

One of the drawing classes that I recently took was called Caricature Bootcamp. This was one of the most enjoyable and stress-relieving classes that I have ever participated in because perfection and exact image likeness were not the goal. In fact, the more silly and creative we were with our interpretation of the model, the better our drawings turned out to be. Our professor would encourage the students to draw funny and distorted pictures of the live model who would pose and make funny faces during the sessions. On one particular day, the model who was scheduled to be there was unable to make it to the class, so our instructor filled in and became the subject of ridicule. He thought of several unique poses to do so that we would be stretched in our imaginations while drawing, and one pose in particular became my favorite. After several minutes of posing and modeling, Professor Brodner suddenly "thumbed his nose," which is typically done by placing the thumb on the nose and wiggling the fingers. It's often used to express disregard or disrespect, especially towards someone who has offended or wronged you. As completely unexpected as this gesture was, it was also funny in a way because it made everyone in the class loosen up and laugh. Our homework assignment for that evening was to take one of our favorite poses from the class and do something extra with it. I immediately knew that I wanted to add onto the "nose thumbing" pose because it reminded me of another real-life serious moment which was interrupted by an unexpected thumbing of the nose. In 2022, Prince Louis, who is the youngest child of Prince William and Kate Middleton, was in London, England attending the Platinum Jubilee of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, when out of nowhere, he began acting like a bratty little youngster by being fidgety, sticking out his tongue, and making inappropriate hand gestures. That incident took the world by storm because he was just being a normal 5-year-old kid, but everyone was expecting him to be prim, proper, and on his "best behavior" during the stiff and rigid formal event. I created an illustration in which Professor Brodner and Prince Louis were facing off against each other, taunting and teasing one another with the nose thumbing. I had a fun time drawing it because both people (a grown, professional white man and a young "well-to-do" prince) have somewhat high standards placed on them from society. Generally, and maybe even stereotypically, older white men are often regarded as experts and professionals who are leaders in their chosen fields of business, while members of royal courts are held to even higher standards of leadership, excellence, and poise. To see representatives of these two societal classes break the mold and express real emotions was so refreshing. What I learned from this drawing assignment was that life is short, and we must take time out to laugh and enjoy the small things while we can. Laughter is good for the soul, so we should all put forth more effort to let loose and bring joy to the world.

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was young and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My creative aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books. As soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I still would like to attend art school to improve my graphic design abilities, and to gain more knowledge about the illustration field. Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. In a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create.

On a daily basis, we are bombarded around the clock with images and messages of doom, gloom, and death, but I know that there is so much more to look forward to than that. I believe that it is part of my life’s mission to instill hope and spread love through the artistic gift that I have been blessed with. I aspire to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As digital technology and social media vie for the attention of the younger generations, our children are losing their fundamental reading skills. I want to create and publish wholesome reading material that will positively engage them, stimulate their minds and get their imaginations active. I want to write and illustrate books that will affirm their purposes in life, and that will also inspire them to dream big. In addition to children’s book illustration, I also have an interest in portraiture. I want to find unique ways of painting portraits that express the love and plans that God has for them: healthy, blessed, and prosperous individuals. It has become a trending thing today for people (especially women) to write positive affirmations on their mirrors and confess them out loud, but it is something completely different for them to see an actual representation (my painting) of themselves as a renewed and prosperous person who is making a positive mark on the world. This upcoming fall semester of 2025, I will continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC and work towards obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Illustration. In addition to improving my digital art skills, I am also striving to improve my drawing and painting abilities. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will both challenge and strengthen my creative muscles, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, Lifestyle Illustration, and Surface Design. Being in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles of the city, I will have an endless supply of resources to turn to. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

As someone who struggles on a small scale with dyslexia, picture books have saved my reading life. All throughout my school-age years, I used to loathe reading assignments. I would often find myself staying stuck on the same sentence or paragraph for the longest time because my brain couldn't comprehend the storyline. Many times, I would go to the bookstore to look for a shorter, simpler version of the books that I was assigned to read. As a very young girl, I remember falling in love with picture books. Not only were the illustrations beautifully colored, but the way in which they enhanced the storyline helped me make sense of what was written. It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. I find this to be so true because I was able to use my imagination more and interpret a story's meaning by studying the illustrators' images. Ever since I can remember, nothing (other than God) has brought me so much joy than creating art does. When I’m making a drawing or painting, the outside world becomes oblivious to me, and I get lost in the moment. My imagination carries me away to a place where there is no pain, frustration, or chaos. There is nothing more fascinating to me than watching a creative vision come to life on paper and canvas. As an adult, I have had my fair share of working odd jobs and doing what seems to be "beneath me." However, the young girl in me still wants to be carefree and express herself through illustrations that will hopefully inspire other young boys and girls to dream and create as well. My goal is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As digital technology and social media vie for the attention of the younger generations, our children are losing their fundamental reading skills. I want to create and publish wholesome reading material that will positively engage them, stimulate their minds and get their imaginations active. I want to write and illustrate books that will affirm their purposes in life, and that will also inspire them to dream big. In addition to children’s book illustration, I also have an interest in portraiture. I want to find unique ways of painting portraits that express the love and plans that God has for them: healthy, blessed, and prosperous individuals. It has become a trending thing today for people (especially women) to write positive affirmations on their mirrors and confess them out loud, but it is something completely different for them to see an actual representation (my painting) of themselves as a renewed and prosperous person who is making a positive mark on the world. On a daily basis, we are bombarded around the clock with images and messages of doom, gloom, and death, but I know that life possesses so much more to look forward to than that. I believe that it is part of my life’s mission to instill hope and spread love through the artistic gift that I have been blessed with. By winning this scholarship award, I will be able to continue my academic studies at School of Visual Arts in NYC and be one step closer to obtaining my B.F.A. in Illustration in 2027. With the city's vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention its eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I am looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an illustrator.

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was young and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My creative aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books. As soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I still would like to attend art school to improve my graphic design abilities, and to gain more knowledge about the illustration field. Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. In a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create.

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was young and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by, but I still kept hope alive by applying to art schools and various scholarships. My creative aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books. As soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with Jesus and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. By the goodness of God, He also made a way for me to have the life-saving surgery that I so desperately needed. Today, at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I still would like to attend art school to improve my graphic design abilities, and to gain more knowledge about the illustration field. Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. In a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create.

When most children go to bed, they like to leave some type of light on so they can see when the “scary” things appear. What they don’t realize is that the light shining on the objects in their bedroom is what’s causing the “monsters” to appear. I suppose that the proper name for the monsters is shadows. A shadow, by definition, is “a reflected image”; or “a dark figure or image cast on the ground or some surface by a body intercepting light.” I was given a school assignment a few years ago where the challenge was to draw an object and its shadow several times. Each drawing was to depict the object and its shadow during different times of the day. I chose to place some sneakers on top of my vehicle on a sunny day and capture the shadows and reflections in the morning, afternoon, and evening. The first picture I drew captured the morning light. This one in particular is my favorite of the images I created because of the stillness and subtlety of the atmosphere. The sun had barely risen, so the shadows it cast on my vehicle were not so visible. To my surprise, the shoes' colors appeared visibly brighter, and the shadow was not as strong. I thought that because the sun had not fully risen yet, the reflections and shadows it cast would cause the shoe to appear darker. The sun had just begun to rise from the east, and this caused the blue sueded leather on the shoes to appear a soft green-gray color. The subdued morning sunlight caused the reds of the shoelaces and on the back of the shoes to emit a soft reddish-orange appearance, while the dark blue cloth on the tops and sides of the shoes were giving soft lavender tones. As the position of the sun shifted in the sky, I noticed a change not only in the appearance of the shadows, but also in the reflected light cast on the shoes. It had settled somewhat above and behind the shoes, casting shadows on top of my car which had become much stronger than the morning shadows. The shadows were so huge that they almost got to the point of being intimidating. It was interesting for me to observe how the objects appeared darker in color. The sun was slowly starting to set, so I used navy, dark purple, dark red, and smoky green-gray markers to portray this. So, if shadows are only faint, marred representations of the actual thing, why are people so afraid of them? Maybe because they appear larger, more distorted, and threatening. Shadows in and of themselves have no power to cause any damage. They have no life abiding in them, so they are powerless. If we take a moment to stop and think about it, shadows can actually help us navigate life to a certain degree. They give hints and warnings of another thing to come. I like what Psalm 23:4 says in the Amplified Bible: “Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me.” Shadows can intimidate us all day long, but the greater God Almighty will guide our feet to safety as we learn to trust in Him.

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would automatically open a door for me to become a fashion designer. I was young and could draw decently, but I couldn't sew very well. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford either of the tuitions, and neither did I have the resources to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by while I was working in retail, but I was still keeping hope alive by applying to art schools and seeking out financial aid resources. During that time, my creative aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books. But as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work. As a result of not working, my finances took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the trials, my relationship with the Lord and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue art was revitalized. My church family was moved with compassion to help me get around town to take care of personal needs, and I was also able to get some health insurance to have the surgery that I so desperately needed. Now, over twenty years later, and at 49 years old, I have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I still would like to attend art school to improve my graphic design abilities, and to gain more knowledge about the illustration field. Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. Next to God, nothing brings me more joy than being creative and seeing my work come to life. There is so much darkness and devastation in the world, and I aspire to use my work to express hope, light, and love. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create. Although our young children are precious in the sight of the Lord, I believe that all of God’s children (regardless of age) are worth fighting for. Ultimately, I pray that my artwork will be a blessing to everyone around the world. I love to draw and paint portraits, so I am searching for innovative ways to portray people’s likeness in a way that they experience the love of God. Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always searching for new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social platforms and other digital means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign have helped me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I am enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. Another thing that is helping me to grow as an artist is to draw subjects that are outside of the norm for me. Over the past few months, I've become interested in studying food: the different textures, rich colors, variety of sizes, and the unique smells and tastes. Learning how to capture those features on paper is a bit difficult at times, but as I continue to study food and work hard at refining my artistic skills, my work will reflect a unique style and translation. I am excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

Rather than saying that I have chosen to pursue art, I believe that God has chosen art to pursue me. Art is something that I have been drawn to (no pun intended) ever since I can remember. Next to God, nothing brings me more joy than being creative and seeing my work come to life. There is so much darkness and devastation in the world, and I aspire to use my work to express hope, light, and love. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create. Although our young children are precious in the sight of the Lord, I believe that all of God’s children (regardless of age) are worth fighting for. Ultimately, I pray that my artwork will be a blessing to everyone around the world. I love to draw and paint portraits, so I am searching for innovative ways to portray people’s likeness in a way that they experience the love of God. Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always in search of new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social platforms and other digital means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign have helped me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of painting mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I am enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. Another thing that is helping me to grow as an artist is to draw subjects that are outside of the norm for me. Over the past few months, I've become interested in studying food: the different textures, rich colors, variety of sizes, and the unique smells and tastes. Learning how to capture those features on paper is a bit difficult at times, but as I continue to study food and work hard at refining my artistic skills, my work will reflect a unique style and translation. I am both excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

I had just graduated with my first Bachelor’s degree in 1998, and with my diploma in hand, I thought that I had obtained a golden ticket that would guarantee an easily accessible portal into my dream job of being a fashion designer. I was young and could draw well, but didn’t have very good sewing skills. “Surely,” I thought, “once I apply to a reputable fashion house and get hired, they won’t mind training me for whatever skills I am lacking. What could go wrong?” Little did I know that everything that could go wrong, would. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, no doors of opportunity were opening for me. I decided that I would go back to school to acquire the design and sewing skills that I lacked. I got accepted into two of my dream art and design schools. One was in Paris, France, and the other was in New York City. Sadly, though, I couldn’t afford the out-of-country and out-of-state tuitions, nor did I have the resources for the cost of living to support myself. As much as I hated to, I got a taste of humble pie and got a “regular job” in my home state just to have some cash flow and take care of myself until I could realize my dreams. A few years went by while I was working in retail, but I was still keeping hope alive by applying to art schools and seeking out financial aid resources. During that time, my creative aspirations had changed, and I no longer wanted to be a fashion designer. My new desire was to become an author and illustrator of children’s books. But as soon as I started to pursue those dreams, another fiery dart got thrown my way. My health began to take a turn for the worst. A sickness that I had been battling since my teenage years had gotten progressively worse, and it was increasingly more difficult for me to be able to work because of the pain that I was experiencing. As a consequence of being unable to work very much, my finances also took a hit. I was forced to move back home with relatives, and my vehicle was repossessed. For nearly seven years, I was without a vehicle, and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. To add salt to the wound, I also needed a life-saving surgery, but because I couldn’t keep a full-time job, I had no insurance to have it done. This is where faith in God comes in. In spite of all of the ups and downs, my relationship with the Lord and my prayer life were the only things which got stronger. I found encouragement for navigating the storms of life by studying the Bible, and my passion to pursue my purpose for living was revitalized. My church family was moved with compassion to help me get around town to take care of personal needs, and I was also able to get some health insurance to have the surgery that I so desperately needed. Over twenty years later, I still have not given up hope of becoming an illustrator. I would still like to attend art school to improve my graphic design abilities, and to gain more knowledge about the illustration field. If all goes as planned, and if it is the Lord’s will, I will be attending School of Visual Arts this fall. Not all of my educational and living expenses have been met, but I believe that they will be taken care of as I continue to live by faith. Nothing in life goes as planned, and there will always be disappointments. Through all of the struggles and doubts, I’ve learned to persevere and trust God to work everything out for my good.

One of the greatest follies that has become commonplace and highly encouraged in today's society is for everyone to "speak their truth." This phrase in itself has always bothered me, because what's really meant is that everyone is encouraged to speak about their own personal experiences in which there is very little truth. Our “truth” is skewed by emotions and personal beliefs. The absolute truth is the Word of God which leaves no room for error or personal opinion. Jesus says in John 14:6 that "I am the way, the truth, and the life..." Whenever a person begins to share their "truth" about a particular circumstance in which they believe they were victimized, oftentimes they will speak from a one-sided perspective. This leaves the story incomplete because they often don't share the details about how they failed to take any responsibility for any wrong-doing they might have done. We often try to make ourselves a victim so that we can gain empathy and compassion. If the whole truth actually were told, a person's weakness and faults would be exposed, and society would be less likely to embrace them. Many people are clever orators and are highly skilled at twisting “truth”, using slick words and emotions so that their stories can sound convincing. For those who are born-again and know how to exercise spiritual discernment, there is nothing that should get past us. We are encouraged by the Word in 1 John 4:1 to “...believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” The Bible also admonishes in Ephesians 4:14: “Then we will no longer be like children, forever changing our minds about what we believe because someone has told us something different or has cleverly lied to us and made the lie sound like the truth.” For those who are not born-again in Christ Jesus, their minds are carnal. Therefore, they have ungodly ways and ideas that seem right in their eyes. Proverbs 14:12 says that “there is a way that seems right to a person, but eventually it ends in death.” People’s eyes have been blinded by the prince of darkness, and they are deceived into thinking that wrong is right. Jesus tells us not to judge according to the appearance of things, but to judge righteous judgment (John 7:24) Whenever we hear something that is in error, we should weigh it against the Word of God, and if the information is incorrect, then to let our speech be with grace and salt (Colossians 4:6), and speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). As children of light, we are to expose the hidden works of darkness and expose them by the light that’s within us (Ephesians 5:8-13). The truth of God’s Word will always prevail because He cannot lie (Titus 1:2) and He has final authority.

The year 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of one of music’s most influential genres: hip-hop. Its influence is everywhere, from television commercials, to movie soundtracks, to sporting events, to cultures and ethnicities all around the world. At the time that hip-hop was birthed, I’m sure that many people of society were doubtful of the success that it would have, but the music has proven to be a staying power. My drawing/collage is an ode to a few of the hip-hop artists who have helped make hip-hop a musical legacy to be enjoyed for many more years to come. It goes without saying that rapper/actor Will Smith had a significant impact on the rap game. He made hip-hop “fun,” and kids were able to listen to the music without having to buy edited, or “cleaned up,” versions. Will’s goofy personality and boldly colored outfits also were a breath of fresh air for those like myself who got tired of listening to profane lyrics, and who wanted something else besides gangsta-style apparel to wear. Will Smith knocked down so many barriers in hip-hop by becoming the first rap artist to win a Grammy in 1989, and for this reason, I decided to include Will in my drawing of hip-hop greats. M.C. Hammer was another wildly popular and successful rap artist, and he had a very significant impact on how hip-hop was accepted across all cultures. Hammer was one of the few rappers at the time who incorporated dancing routines into his performances. His flashy tops paired with his famous baggy pants and shiny, pointy-tip shoes made kids everywhere (myself included) want to dress just like him. In my opinion, M.C. Hammer is not given the credit he deserves for putting hip-hop on the map, so I decided to draw him as part of my tribute. Heavy D., also known as “The Overweight Lover,” was not as mainstream as Will Smith and M.C. Hammer were, but in the African American community, he was everything. Heavy D.’s rap career lasted for well over 20 years, a feat not too many artists get to attain; and he also had a successful stint in acting. What drew me to Heavy’s music was his unique rap style which was infused with his Jamaican roots and upbringing. He never used much profanity, and he had a certain “swag” or style that was unlike most other rappers at the time. Heavy D was not afraid of going against the hip-hop fashion trend, often opting for suits and finer apparel. Heavy D.’s gentle spirit and unique rap flow are two of the main traits that made me want to highlight him in my ode to hip-hop. Although rap and hip-hop is predominantly male-dominated, women have had great success and have broken down many barriers in the genre as well. One of those rappers is Da Brat. She came onto the scene in the mid-1990’s as a rough and tough tomboy who wasn’t afraid of competing with the men. Brat paved her own way in rap with her speedy rap delivery style, baggy clothes, and gangsta-style braids. One of Brat’s friends during that time, Missy Elliott is no doubt one the most creative minds in the entire rap game. She is a talented producer, singer, rapper, and dancer, just to name a few of her gifts. Missy always kept her fans anticipating her next moves, because not only did she know how to reinvent fashion styles, but her rap lyrics were often comical, and her dance moves were epic. I give both Missy and Da Brat their flowers for hip-hop greatness.

Ever since I can remember, art has been the love of my life. It is God’s gift to me, and I like to say that He chose me to share art with the world. There is so much darkness and devastation in the world, and I aspire to use my work to express hope, light, and love. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create. Although our young children are precious in the sight of the Lord, I believe that all of God’s children (regardless of age) are worth fighting for. Ultimately, I pray that my artwork will be a blessing to everyone around the world. I love to draw and paint portraits, so I am searching for innovative ways to portray people’s likeness in a way that they experience the love of God. Creatively, I am inspired by other artists whose techniques and art mediums are different from mine. I am always in search of new ways to express my artistic voice, and there is no better way to develop my creative muscles than by experimenting with something new. Lately, that “something new” has been digital art. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social platforms and other digital means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign have helped me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. Once I get the mastery of those skills, I hope to continue to broaden my knowledge of painting mediums like watercolor, oil paint, and acrylic paint. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I am enrolled in various illustration courses that will be both challenging and rewarding, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. I am both excited to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. Being an artist nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will continue to provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

There is a Bible Scripture that says it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). I have been on the receiving end of other people's generosity and mercies in my times of desperate need far too many times than I'd like to mention. For almost ten years of my adulthood, I was in a low place in life. I had been dealing with a certain sickness since my childhood which had gotten progressively worse over time. Because of poor decisions, I also lost my vehicle, which made it extremely difficult to get to work daily. As much as I fought it, I eventually swallowed my pride and asked for help from others who could assist me with certain needs until I was able to get back on my feet. The people that God used to bless me during that trying season of my life made me realize how genuinely loving and sincere people actually are. Many of my friends, and even some strangers, were eager to offer their time and resources. I was somewhat shocked at the length that certain individuals went to make sure that I had all that I needed to survive. Among other things, I was allowed to use friends’ vehicles to look for employment; when I couldn’t use their cars, they willingly sacrificed their time to pick me up and take me to various places; and others even gave me money to help me pay my outstanding bills. After experiencing the outpouring of love and kindness that I received during my time of need, I now have greater compassion and sensitivity to the desperate needs of others. It is so important to stay humble and gracious because nobody ever knows when the tables will turn. The person who is on top today might be the one at the bottom and in need of help tomorrow. Life’s burdens are too heavy to be carried alone. People are in our lives to share in our joys as well as pains. The blessings that we receive are not to be consumed exclusively upon our selfish desires. I believe that God trusts certain individuals with His goodness, which is why He keeps blessing them with more. I want to be an extension of God’s love and allow Him to use me to be a blessing in the earth. As the Lord brings the increase in my life, I want to experience the blessedness of giving and make my resources available to those in need. Among other things, I have volunteered my creative talents to my local church by painting the interior walls and making murals in the children's classrooms. Once a week, I also participate in community clean-up days by picking up trash along the highways. When I have spare time, I like to prepare hot meals for the hungry, help buy clothes for underprivileged citizens, or simply offer a word of comfort and prayer. I am willing to serve in whatever capacity I can because I know first-hand what impact volunteering can have on someone else's future. Winning this scholarship will help alleviate some of the financial burdens of college tuition and related expenses. Because I am an out-of-state student, tuition is much higher than if I resided in-state. I will be a full-time student, and I would prefer not to have to juggle a part-time job along with balancing my schoolwork. It is my prayer to obtain my Bachelor's degree with as little debt as possible. Thank you so much for your consideration.

If it was not for the arts, I don't know what I would be doing with myself today. Art has provided a way for me to escape from the noise and chaos of the everyday world. As a child growing up, whenever it would be time to shop for school supplies for the new school year, I would get so excited at the thought of passing by the crafty supplies because of the smell of the fresh crayons in the air! Then, I'd hope and pray that my mom would have enough money to purchase the 64- and 128-count count boxes because of the options that they allowed me to have. I always faired well academically, but I really came alive and thrived when creative projects were assigned by my school teachers. I always knew that I wanted to have a profession that involved doing something artistic. My first dream was to become a fashion designer. I studied Fashion Merchandising and Design at a college in Texas immediately after high school graduation, but after I obtained my degree four years later, I realized that I had a greater passion for illustration. Since then, I have been on a non-stop mission to learn as much as I can about illustration and graphic design. My journey toward fulfilling my dreams has not been an easy one. I’ve experienced several obstacles and setbacks. In 2008, I wrote and illustrated my first children's book. Unfortunately, it was discovered a few years later that the family which owned the publishing company was operating a fraudulent business. Also, for nearly 25 years, I battled with a personal illness that limited my ability to walk and do physical activities. Fortunately, in 2013, I was able to have a life-saving surgery that allowed me to live pain-free and let my creativity flourish. Then I was met with financial challenges, not knowing how I would pay for the classes that I desired to take at an out-of-state art school. Through all of the valleys and days of self-doubt, I thank not only God for sustaining me but also my twin sister for her undying support and words of encouragement. The days when I just wanted to throw in the towel and forget about pursuing an art career are too many to count. Before I could have a pity party and cry really good, my sister would always tell me that she loved me and that I should not let anything deter me from following my heart's desires. Everyone has bad days, and we all have hurdles to leap over. I appreciate my sister for encouraging me to shake the dust off of myself, pick up the broken pieces, and pursue even harder to make my dreams a reality. Because of her, I am continuing to apply for scholarships so that I can obtain my Illustration degree with as little debt as possible. This upcoming fall semester, I will be continuing my educational journey by taking classes that enhance my drawing, painting, and graphic design skills. After my horrible experience with the ill-fated publishing company, I want to learn as much as I can about the book publishing business, so I will be taking a few business classes as well. As an older adult continuing my education, I do get tired along the way and still have thoughts of giving up and taking the "easy" road. But my burning passion for the arts and my sister's gentle nudge keep me on the path that I believe God has destined for me to be on.

The sole reason why I relentlessly pursue my passion for the visual arts is simply that I cannot imagine myself doing anything else in life. None of the odd jobs I’ve had throughout my life have given me the fulfillment that creating art does. When I’m creating a drawing or painting, the outside world becomes oblivious to me, and I get lost in the moment. There is nothing more fascinating to me than watching a creative vision come to life on paper and canvas. My desire is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I recognize the lack of Bible-based, Christ-centered reading material for our young children. I want to write and illustrate books that make learning about our Lord fun and interesting. We are living in a time when kids are constantly exposed to uncensored, vile, and perverted images. I want to offer kids hope and truth through the books and artwork that I create. Although our young children are precious in the sight of the Lord, I believe that all of God’s children (regardless of age) are worth fighting for. Ultimately, I pray that my artwork will be a blessing to everyone around the world. I love to draw and paint portraits, so I am searching for innovative ways to portray people’s likeness in a way that they experience the love of God. As I continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my artwork. With these skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social platforms and other digital means. Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign have helped me gain a solid foundation in graphic design. In addition to improving my digital skills, I am also striving to improve my drawing and painting abilities. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I am enrolled in various illustration courses that will both challenge and strengthen my creative muscles, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, and Surface Design. I am both excited and nervous to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. I’m certain that being in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of inspiration and resources to pull from. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

On a daily basis, we are bombarded around the clock with images and messages of doom, gloom, and death, but I know that there is so much more to look forward to than that. I believe that it is part of my life’s mission to instill hope and spread love through the artistic gift that I have been blessed with. I aspire to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As digital technology and social media vie for the attention of the younger generations, our children are losing their fundamental reading skills. I want to create and publish wholesome reading material that will positively engage them, stimulate their minds and get their imaginations active. I want to write and illustrate books that will affirm their purposes in life, and that will also inspire them to dream big. In addition to children’s book illustration, I also have an interest in portraiture. I want to find unique ways of painting portraits that express the love and plans that God has for them: healthy, blessed, and prosperous individuals. It has become a trending thing today for people (especially women) to write positive affirmations on their mirrors and confess them out loud, but it is something completely different for them to see an actual representation (my painting) of themselves as a renewed and prosperous person who is making a positive mark on the world. This upcoming fall semester of 2023, I will continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC and work towards obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Illustration. In addition to improving my digital art skills, I am also striving to improve my drawing and painting abilities. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will both challenge and strengthen my creative muscles, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, Lifestyle Illustration, and Surface Design. Being in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles of the city, I will have an endless supply of resources to turn to. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

The sole reason why I relentlessly pursue my passion for the visual arts is simply that I cannot imagine myself doing anything else in life. None of the odd jobs I’ve had throughout my life have given me the fulfillment that creating art does. When I’m creating a drawing or painting, the outside world becomes oblivious to me, and I get lost in the moment. There is nothing more fascinating to me than watching a creative vision come to life on paper and canvas. As a young girl, I wanted to become a fashion designer, but as I got older, I realized that I had a greater passion for illustrating and painting all kinds of subject matter. Since then, I have been on a mission to learn as much as I can about illustration and graphic design. I aspire to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. As digital technology and social media vie for the attention of the younger generations, our children are losing their fundamental reading skills. I want to create and publish wholesome reading material that will positively engage them, stimulate their minds and get their imaginations active. I want to write and illustrate books that will affirm their purposes in life, and that will also inspire them to dream big. In April of 2008, I released my first children’s book entitled We Are Royalty. Having no previous knowledge of or experience with the publishing industry, I didn’t know what to expect, and as a result, I believe that I was taken advantage of. Many of my original illustrations were edited by the now-defunct publishing company, and my book files were “lost.” This bad experience has significantly influenced my desire to know more about the children’s book illustration business, as well as how to edit my files the way I want them done. Despite a few personal setbacks throughout the years, my dreams and aspirations of entering the visual arts world never died. I continued taking drawing and painting classes at a local college where I was able to familiarize myself with oil paint and watercolors. Currently, I am taking graphic design courses that help me to incorporate Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign into my work. With these digital skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social platforms and other digital means. This upcoming fall semester of 2023, I will continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC and work towards obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Illustration. In addition to improving my digital skills, I am also striving to improve my drawing and painting abilities. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will both challenge and strengthen my creative muscles, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, Lifestyle Illustration, and Surface Design. I am both excited and nervous to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. I’m certain that being in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of resources to turn to. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

The work of art that I created, entitled “Who Wore It Best?”, is inspired by the male model in the illustration. During a drawing session in my caricature class a few months back, Pascal posed in various outfits and livened things up with his wide array of facial expressions and gestures. This pose in particular, with Pascal peeking over the top of his sunglasses, and the scarf delicately draped over his head and shoulders, gave lots of attitude which inspired me to capture his likeness in a more detailed drawing. As I began drawing him, I thought of other people who were famously known for wearing a scarf and sunglasses, and immediately actresses Audrey Hepburn as well as Susan Sarandon’s character from the movie Thelma and Louise came to mind. Then I imagined what fun it would be to create a themed drawing of these three individuals in a friendly competition as they posed wearing their scarves and sunglasses in their own unique way. As an aspiring fashion illustrator, I took on this project as a step toward perfecting my skills in that area. To break out of my comfort zone of working in a familiar medium (colored pencils and oil paint), I chose to render all of the illustrations using alcohol markers. I was initially apprehensive about using markers because I was not sure how well they would blend together, or if they would accurately capture the feeling I wanted to convey. However, as I began to work on the foundational colors and undertones, I was pleased with how the medium reacted to my paper, and I proceeded to use bolder colors as I layered them on top. Pascal brought the most flair to my project with his paisley-floral sheer head wrap, striped shirt, and iridescent sunglasses. Soft purple, blue, green, and red are the primary colors used in this particular drawing. They help me to convey the femininity of the scarf while contrasted against the masculine darker grey stripes in the shirt. The iridescence of the sunglasses adds a sense of mystery, but Pasqual allowed us to see through the protective barrier by giving us a peek at his expressive eyes. My next drawing of actress Susan Sarandon gave me an opportunity to illustrate one of my favorite movie scenes. Susan’s no-nonsense attitude was reflected in the way I drew her facial expressions. It was further enhanced by her fiery red hair and the subtle red tones in the scarf, along with the reddish-brownish colors in her cat-eye sunglasses. The softer purple and green undertones in the scarf balanced the overall sternness that this illustration communicates. Lastly, actress Audrey Hepburn was widely known for her simple classic fashion style which she sometimes coupled with sunglasses and a scarf. The warm color palette in this drawing is limited to soft touches of yellow, green, orange, and brown. Audrey’s wide eyes draw the viewer’s eyes to the direction in which she seems to be focused. Overall, I am very pleased with the outcome of the final illustration. I had so much fun putting my personal illustration style on some of the most classic movie scenes and was able to incorporate the relatively unknown male model with the famed ladies. I look forward to creating more fashion-inspired illustrations and experimenting with more mediums in the near future.

I am a non-traditional student because of my age. At 47 years young, my longtime dream is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial, fashion, and lifestyle illustrator. Initially, I wanted to become a fashion designer upon graduating from high school in 1993. However, after I obtained my first Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design four years later, I soon realized that I had a greater passion for illustrating not only fashion but also people and everyday objects. Since then, I have been on a non-stop mission to learn as much as I can about illustration and graphic design. Throughout my educational journey, I’ve experienced several obstacles and setbacks. Over a span of about 20 years, I battled with a personal illness that limited my ability to walk and do physical activities. During this time, I worked a few odd jobs as I was able to support myself, but my aspirations of entering the visual arts world never faded. Once I recovered from a life-saving surgery in 2013, I continued my quest toward obtaining my second Bachelor’s degree from School of Visual Arts. While waiting for the right time to attend SVA in New York, I enrolled in drawing and painting classes at a local college in North Texas for two years. These art classes allowed me to not only familiarize myself with oil paint and watercolors but also gain a stronger foundation in basic drawing skills. In 2021, I finally got the opportunity to start fulfilling my dream of taking illustration courses at SVA in NYC. However, because of the COVID-19 restrictions at the time, all of the courses were held online which made learning new art techniques a bit challenging. Through mentorship and guidance provided by my professors, I was able to excel in the courses and gain new skills. As tough as it was to endure at times, online learning did present one advantage: out-of-state tuition and fees were waived because of the shelter-in-place guidelines. As the COVID-19 restrictions began to lift in 2022, I began to question again how I was going to continue my education in New York the following school year with the living expenses being so high there. I hadn’t saved up enough money to be able to afford to move there and pay for my education as well. As difficult as it was, I decided to take a gap year for 2022-2023, continue to work at my job so that I could save and try to attend SVA again the following school year, and take graphic design classes at the local college once more. As an adult approaching the great age of 50, I am determined to fulfill the purpose that God has for me. Although stereotypes and expectations for older adults exist, I refuse to live up to them. I want to blaze a new path in my family and start a creative business that can be handed down to future generations. With a broken heart, I watched my maternal grandmother settle for whatever life handed her because she felt as though she had no other options in life but to put aside her educational dreams in order to raise her children. That defeated mindset stops with me. If it is God’s will for me, a way will be made for me to return to School of Visual Arts in September 2023 and finish my studies.

At 47 years young, my longtime dream is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial, fashion, and lifestyle illustrator. Initially, I wanted to become a fashion designer upon graduating from high school in 1993. However, after I obtained my first Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design four years later, I soon realized that I had a greater passion for illustrating not only fashion but also people and everyday objects. Since then, I have been on a non-stop mission to learn as much as I can about illustration and graphic design. Throughout my educational journey, I’ve experienced several obstacles and setbacks. Over a span of about 20 years, I battled with a personal illness that limited my ability to walk and do physical activities. During this time, I worked a few odd jobs as I was able to support myself, but my aspirations of entering the visual arts world never faded. Once I recovered from a life-saving surgery in 2013, I continued my quest toward obtaining my second Bachelor’s degree from School of Visual Arts. While waiting for the right time to attend SVA in New York, I enrolled in drawing and painting classes at a local college in North Texas for two years. These art classes allowed me to not only familiarize myself with oil paint and watercolors but also gain a stronger foundation in basic drawing skills. In 2021, I finally got the opportunity to start fulfilling my dream of taking illustration courses at SVA in NYC. However, because of the COVID-19 restrictions at the time, all of the courses were held online which made learning new art techniques a bit challenging. Through mentorship and guidance provided by my professors, I was able to excel in the courses and gain new skills. As tough as it was to endure at times, online learning did present one advantage: out-of-state tuition and fees were waived because of the shelter-in-place guidelines. As the COVID-19 restrictions began to lift in 2022, I began to question again how I was going to continue my education in New York the following school year with the living expenses being so high there. I hadn’t saved up enough money to be able to afford to move there and pay for my education as well. As difficult as it was, I decided to take a gap year for 2022-2023, continue to work at my job so that I could save and try to attend SVA again the following school year, and take graphic design classes at the local college once more. As an adult approaching the great age of 50, I am determined to fulfill the purpose that God has for me. Although stereotypes and expectations for older adults exist, I refuse to live up to them. I want to blaze a new path in my family and start a creative business that can be handed down to future generations. With a broken heart, I watched my maternal grandmother settle for whatever life handed her because she felt as though she had no other options in life but to put aside her educational dreams in order to raise her children. That defeated mindset stops with me. If it is God’s will for me, a way will be made for me to return to School of Visual Arts in September 2023 and finish my studies.

My longtime dream is to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial, fashion, and lifestyle illustrator. Initially, I wanted to become a fashion designer upon graduating from high school. However, after I obtained my first Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design four years later, I soon realized that I had a greater passion for illustrating not only fashion but also people and everyday objects. Since then, I have been on a mission to learn as much as I can about illustration and graphic design. Throughout my educational journey, I’ve experienced several obstacles and setbacks. Over a span of about 20 years, I battled with a personal illness that limited my ability to walk and do physical activities. During this time, I worked a few odd jobs as I was able to support myself, but my aspirations of entering the visual arts world never faded. Once I recovered from a life-saving surgery in 2013, I continued my quest toward obtaining my second Bachelor’s degree from School of Visual Arts. Until I was able to attend SVA in New York, I enrolled in drawing and painting classes at a local college in North Texas for two years. These art classes allowed me to not only familiarize myself with oil paint and watercolors but also gain a stronger foundation in basic drawing skills. In 2021, I finally got the opportunity to start fulfilling my dream of taking illustration courses at SVA in NYC. However, because of the COVID-19 restrictions at the time, all of the courses were held online which made learning new art techniques a bit challenging. Through mentorship and guidance provided by my professors, I was able to excel in the courses and gain new skills. As tough as it was to endure at times, online learning did present one advantage: out-of-state tuition and fees were waived because of the shelter-in-place guidelines. As the COVID-19 restrictions began to lift in 2022, I began to question again how I was going to continue my education in New York the following school year with the living expenses being so high there. I hadn’t saved up enough money to be able to afford to move there and pay for my education as well. As difficult as it was, I decided to take a gap year for 2022-2023, continue to work at my job so that I could save and try to attend SVA again the following school year, and take graphic design classes at the local college once more. I am being very proactive by applying for as many scholarships as possible so that my financial burdens won’t overwhelm me and hinder my goals anymore. Through it all, I have learned to trust God through the difficulties and not to give up on Him or my dreams. Everything that happens in life has a purpose, so I know that as a believer in Jesus Christ, He is working everything out for my good. If it is His will for me, a way will be made for me to return to School of Visual Arts in September 2023 and finish my studies.

The sole reason why I relentlessly pursue my passion for the visual arts is simply that I cannot imagine myself doing anything else in life. None of the odd jobs I’ve had throughout my life have given me the fulfillment that creating art does. When I’m creating a drawing or painting, the outside world becomes oblivious to me, and I get lost in the moment. There is nothing more fascinating to me than watching a creative vision come to life on paper and canvas. I aspire to become a children’s book illustrator, as well as to work as a freelance editorial and fashion illustrator. Initially, I wanted to become a fashion designer. After I obtained my first Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design, I soon realized that I had a greater passion for illustrating not only fashion but also people and everyday objects. Since then, I have been on a mission to learn as much as I can about illustration and graphic design. In April of 2008, I released my first children’s book entitled We Are Royalty. Having no previous knowledge of or experience with the publishing industry, I didn’t know what to expect, and as a result, I believe that I was taken advantage of. Many of my original illustrations were edited by the now-defunct publishing company, and my book files were “lost.” This bad experience has significantly influenced my desire to know more about the children’s book illustration business, as well as how to edit my files the way I want them done. Because of a personal illness that I had to overcome over the course of several years, I had to work “regular” jobs to sustain myself, but my aspirations of entering the visual arts world never died. I continued taking drawing and painting classes at a local college in North Texas where I was able to familiarize myself with oil paint and watercolors. Currently, I am taking graphic design courses that help me to incorporate Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign into my work. With these digital skills, I can use my art to reach a wider audience via social platforms and other digital means. This upcoming fall semester of 2023, I will continue my education at School of Visual Arts in NYC and work towards obtaining another Bachelor’s degree (Illustration). In addition to improving my digital skills, I am also striving to improve my drawing and painting abilities. I truly believe that it is vital for visual artists to have a strong foundation in these areas. I have enrolled in various illustration courses that will both challenge and strengthen my creative muscles, including Human Anatomy, Animal Anatomy, Lifestyle Illustration, and Surface Design. I am both excited and nervous to start my junior year of college this upcoming fall semester. I’m certain that being in the heart of the bustling city of Manhattan will provide lots of inspiration for my artwork. With the vast assortment of museums and historic landmarks, not to mention the eclectic mix of cultures and fashion styles in the city, I will have an endless supply of resources to turn to. I’m looking forward to spreading my creative wings and growing as an artist.

My mother has had the biggest influence on my life, particularly because of the godly, gentle spirit that she embodies. During times of difficulty, I have watched how my mother patiently endured many hardships and then stood still to see God's faithful hand of deliverance. Having such a great example of what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ is the primary reason why I decided to become a Christian several years ago. I plan to keep the godly flame shining brightly through my artwork. In a world where we struggle to find hope, I want to help other individuals see the beauty and joy in what remains in the earth - whether it's good or bad. In my artwork, I use bold colors to add a sense of life to the objects and atmosphere. I am still developing my voice as an artist/illustrator, but I am currently interested in working as a freelance editorial, fashion, and children's book illustrator. Subjects of interest to me are portraits, fashion, and food. I stand out from other illustrators in the fact that I do most of my work by hand. Although the majority of artwork today is digitized, I am not opposed to using technology. I do believe that a small amount of digital editing is needed to fine-tune certain illustrations (depending on the job), but there is a special personalization that the artwork possesses when the artist's raw pencil marks and paint strokes remain. I believe that having the original handprint of the artist on a piece of art not only adds character but also helps communicate the story that the artist was trying to convey. More than that, I want others to sense the hand of God on my life to express His love and creative power through my work. My favorite mediums to work in are oil paint, colored pencils, and markers, but I am constantly developing my skills to stay relevant in an industry that is always evolving. While I am studying at School of Visual Arts, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my illustrations. Also, I am learning other skills that are in demand today, such as lettering, watercolor, and gouache. Being a great world-renowned artist and illustrator is not my ultimate goal. When all is said and done, I want to be found faithful with the gifts that the Lord has entrusted to me. My creative talent is a ministry of sorts that is to be used to bring glory and honor to Him. If just one person can sense the love and light of Jesus Christ through my work, then I know that I will have accomplished His perfect will. Without the seeds of righteousness and godliness that were instilled in me by my mother, I would be lost and hopeless without any sense of purpose for my life. I pray that everyone would be able to experience the unconditional love of a beautiful soul such as my mother's.

Life has proven to be a challenge in navigating the ups and downs, and the ebbs and flows it brings my way. One of the greatest challenges I have faced to date has been effectively managing my time as I work at both my full-time and part-time jobs, setting aside time to work on my school assignments, and squeezing in personal time to renew my mind and breathe so that I can stay sane amid the hectic pace that I’m on. As a non-traditional student, I have decided to defy the stereotype of older adults who feel as though they must set aside their dreams and settle for the mundane path that has been established for them. Upon obtaining my first Bachelor’s degree when I was in my early twenties, I desired to become either a fashion designer or a children’s book illustrator. However, after I experienced a long battle with sickness, I found that it was best for me to find “regular” employment and allow my body to heal until I was well enough to go back to school, continue my studies, and pursue my artistic dreams. Over twenty years have passed since that time, but I am still passionate about carving out a creative career path for myself. I have worked continuously throughout the years so that when the time is right for me to go back to school full-time, I will have saved up enough money to help finance my education. At one point in my life, I had accumulated so much debt, and I worked tirelessly to dig myself out of the hole that I managed to fall in. Now that I am debt-free, I know how heavy the burden is to have debt collectors harass me daily to recover the money that was borrowed. I can now pursue my education without the added pressure of working to pay off old debts. Recently, I have been able to go back to school part-time while I work two jobs, and I have been fortunate enough to have worked for two employers who offered tuition reimbursement programs for current students. I have taken advantage of the program and was able to take a few classes that applied towards my new degree in Illustration. In addition to participating in the tuition reimbursement programs, I am actively applying for scholarships to help eliminate as much student debt as possible. When I am finally able to make the transition to a full-time adult learner, I do not want the burden of juggling employment and education at the same time. I want all of my attention to be focused strictly on my studies so that I can graduate debt-free and start pursuing my new illustration career.

Loyalty is the greatest quality that I believe helps me to stand apart from the crowd. We are living in a day and time where people are so easily swayed to the left or the right whenever something does not satisfy them anymore, or whenever an individual does not live up to certain expectations. The disloyalty of our modern-day "cancel culture" goes to show that there are very few people who will remain faithful to a cause, person, or company in the midst of controversy. I believe that I am one of the few remaining individuals who believes in staying loyal to my commitments. As uncomfortable as difficult situations can be, I know that they can be used to help build great character in me. Enduring hardness builds up tenacity, and it also polishes off the flawed parts of myself to reveal some other characteristics within me that I never knew I possessed, such as patience and trust. On my journey towards pursuing my passion of becoming an artist, I have had to work several jobs that were of no particular interest to me. Was I tempted to quit those jobs? Of course I was, but what good would it have done me? I still would have been broke, had no job benefits, and wouldn't have met some of the great people who helped me to get to where I am today. During those hard times, I also acquired a few job skills that I can carry into my future. Employers are also more willing to hire someone who remained on their former jobs for a longer length of time than someone who bounced around from company to company every few weeks or months. In the future, I know that if I continue to remain loyal to my commitments, I will reap the benefits of the seeds that were planted during the stormy moments of life. In order for beautiful flowers to bloom, there must first be tilling, pruning, fertilizing, and lots of watering. In order for beautiful fruit to come forth in life, there must first be adverse circumstances, humility, betrayal, and lots of crying...but the end result yields such beauty that one forgets the painful trek that it took to get there. In today's society, it is so easy to be persuaded to go with the flow and as be wild, carefree, and unconcerned as a piece of trash blowing in the wind. But the danger that the free-flowing trash faces is that when the wind stops blowing, it may come to a sudden crash and land in a place that it never thought it would be. I choose to remain planted in the ground that God put me in, let my roots dig deep into the ground, and wait patiently for the fruit that is to come.

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and if that is true, I will be very intentional in using my "voice" to spread hope and light to a world that seems so dismal and gloomy. I am currently studying Illustration at an art school in New York, and my ultimate goal is to publish my own inspirational children's books. I wrote, illustrated, and published my first book, We Are Royalty, in 2008. It had an uplifting message geared towards younger children ages 5 to 10, encouraging them to see themselves as the victors and leaders that God created them to be. I am currently brainstorming ideas for my next book which encourages people to take better care of their bodies by eating foods that promote health and healing. I believe that as I continue to take illustration courses, I will be able to communicate my message more effectively through my drawings and paintings. Certain art mediums convey a story better than others (for example: the subtly of watercolor often communicates serenity and gentleness, whereas graphite and charcoal are often used to express chaos and tension). By continuing to study and being sensitive to the "personality" of the different mediums, I will be able to make better choices as I decide how to express my creative voice. Without being "preachy," I want to share my love of Jesus Christ with the world through my artwork. I love to draw portraits, so if someone can sense true love and compassion coming forth from the eyes of someone I drew or painted, then I will have accomplished my task successfully. We are living in a dire times, and I believe that the world is crying out for supernatural peace that can't be explained. Although I am not the answer to the world's problems, I do know the One Who is. Because I have been blessed with a creative and artistic gift, I give it back to God and His Son Jesus Christ to use me a vessel that spreads messages of love, hope, and healing.

No other book has had such a profound impact on my life as the Holy Bible. It is an all-encompassing book full of life and power, hope and healing, and also drama and romance. I was in my late twenties when I made the decision to be intentional about studying the Bible. If the truth be told, I was tired of going to church and being embarrassed because I didn't know where to find the scriptures that the preacher would teach from. Yes, the table of contents came to my rescue several times, but I wanted to confidently know where to turn to rather than madly thumb through the pages until I landed on the right one. More than that, though, I wanted to know about the Jesus that I had prayed to all of my life, and that my family had served faithfully. Once I began my Bible study journey in the Book of Genesis, I was hooked. I couldn't put it down. I fell in love with God as I read how about how deeply He loves His creation - and how He especially loves ME. I was fascinated with how He exercises so much wisdom when people turn to Him for guidance; how much power He possesses when His people need deliverance; and how much love, compassion, and grace He continually pours out when people feel as though they are not worthy of receiving it. To this very day, I still can't fully grasp how Jesus was willing to endure all of the shame and torture that He did just for me, but that's what true love does. It is selfless and compassionate, merciful and gracious. I thank God for prompting me to read the Bible, because it gave me a new standard for righteous living.

My mother has had the biggest influence on my life, particularly because of the godly, gentle spirit that she embodies. During times of difficulty, I have watched how my mother patiently endured many hardships, and then stood still to see God's faithful hand of deliverance. At moments when I thought she should have forsaken others who didn't appear to reciprocate the same amount of love, compassion, and selflessness that she freely gave, my mother continued to give even more of herself (and even much more of God). Having such a great example of what is means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ is the primary reason why I decided to become a Christian several years ago. I plan to keep the godly flame shining brightly through my artwork. In a world where we struggle to find hope, I want to help other individuals see the beauty and joy in what remains in the earth - whether it's people, tragedy, adverse circumstances, or simple pleasures. In my artwork, I use bold colors to add a sense of life to the objects and atmosphere. I am still developing my voice as an artist/illustrator, but subjects of interest to me are portraits, fashion, and food. I am currently interested in working as a freelance editorial, fashion, and children's book illustrator. I stand out from other illustrators in the fact that I do most of my work by hand. Although the majority of artwork today is digitized, I am not opposed to that. I do believe that a small amount of digital editing is needed to fine-tune certain details (depending on the job), but there is a special personalization that the artwork possesses when the artist's raw pencil marks and paint strokes remain. I believe that having the original "handprint" of the artist on a piece of art not only adds character, but it also helps communicate the story that the artist was trying to convey. My favorite mediums to work in are oil paint, colored pencils, and markers, but I am constantly developing my skills to stay relevant in an industry that is always evolving. While I am studying at School of Visual Arts, I am learning how to incorporate digital technology into my illustrations. Also, I am learning other skills that are in demand today, such as lettering, watercolor, gouache, and photography. I aspire to be an illustrator who possesses many diverse skill sets that are able to meet the needs of the clients who request my services.