I live in a major city with lots of fantastic artists. One of my favorite experiences recently is being able to work on a mural for my college. It impacted me in the best ways, challenged me to become a better artist, and gave me an opportunity to learn something new. I had an interesting high school experience, I didn’t get to go to a typical school, I went to an engineering academy. My favorite teacher from that school inspired me to do what made me happy, which lead to me becoming a fine arts student. She was a bit intimidating, but only wanted the best for her students and I will be forever grateful for that. Art brings people together and sheds light on the injustices people face. I would love to curate a show specifically for transgender people in my area. I would love to showcase our struggles, our hardships, and most importantly, our success stories. I believe that would inspire trans youth to be who they are unapologetically. I have definitely failed a lot in my lifetime, most recently, I nearly became homeless due to my college tuition. I pay for my own rent each month, and I pay for my college tuition. I was forced to pay my tuition instead of my rent, in order to stay enrolled in college, nearly leaving me on the street. I’ve grown as a person and I’ve picked up more hours at my workplace. I’ve learned from this situation to save as much as possible for the future.

Joy is something I seek everyday in my life. Joy is important to me, it maintains the beauty I see in the world. I love looking for the little things in life, beautiful sunsets, amazing smells, the sound of laughter. Everything I see and hear contributes to my love for this life. My favorite memories are the ones I’m currently making. Joy isn’t always present, but something I will always seek out. Even though not every moment is the best, I can always rely on coming back to that feeling. Joy is the best thing I can look forward to.

My native heritage is something that I haven’t been able to embrace all my life, but within the last few years I’ve been free to learn and explore everything I’ve missed. My heritage has brought be closer to my community, given me access to new resources and finally given me a family outside of my own. I’ve always felt like there was a part of me that was missing, and now that I can freely express myself I feel whole. Currently I’m pursuing higher education in the hope of being able to create art for a living. I love designing sculptures, throwing ceramics on a wheel, and everything to do with spatial arts. Thank you for your time.

I am a transgender art student, currently enrolled in my second year. I made this piece of art titled “Am I the Center of Everything I Know” in ceramics. It captures how I feel like I sometimes can’t control my life, but I feel like everything is revolving and changing so fast. Thanks for reading!

I personally love to take interest in their emotional well-being. I love being the friend and family member that is reliable and trustworthy. I will always lend a helping hand or listen when I am needed, and I will always try to give my best advice when it’s wanted. One of my favorite examples is when I drove four hours to help a close friend move out of their apartment. This friend was always there for me, so naturally I wanted to return the favor. I would never brag about this to them, but I am glad that I can donate my time and share this personal experience with others. I have had many great people in my life be there for me when I most needed them. I understand how it feels to rely on someone. And by knowing how it feels, I can give the best friendship possible. I always want to be that reliable best friend!