I come from a large family, being number 7 of 10 children, half of whom I raised due to my mother and step-father having to work 12 hour night shifts to support us. I myself have always worked and even now as a current undergraduate student I have had to take on the role of two jobs to support myself as I seek higher education. My passion for art comes directly from my desire to create work that can bring community together and emphasize the everyday struggle of the disenfranchised and under-appreciated. My art is often seen as "grotesque" or "terrifying", however upon further analysis it reflects the struggle of mental illness, femininity, and poverty. Through the use of sculptural ceramics and photography I wish to conceptualize these themes in order to bring awareness to and encourage others in their own daily trials. Not only would this scholarship help keep me in school, but it would also help me create a path for others in the future as I fully intend to work within my community after graduation to help young artists fulfill their dreams and passions. I myself nearly did not attend college. I found that my art was never "good enough" or relatable to others. I was worried about profitability rather than meaning and experience. I come from a very low-income family who has never had the opportunity to pursue higher education and believed that it would not be a possibility for myself, regardless of my consistent good grades and behavior. However, like Anne, I didn't want to look back and regret never attending art school because I was worried I wasn't good enough. Through hard work and determination I have proved to myself that my art is worthy of being in the world. And as my career progresses, I would like to give others the opportunity to see themselves in my work in the hopes that they too choose to pursue their passions. Women like Anne never had the chance to further their education in these fields, and I find myself feeling deeply saddened at the thought of how many amazing artists the world may never see because of the preconceived notions in our society on the roles of women (specifically women in art). Art is and always will be an incredibly important means of connection and growth in our world. It expresses what words often lack; a raw emotional depth. Women have always been in art, whether the muse or the maker (more often than not without credit), we have helped build the world into what it is today. Whether it be mother's who have given their lives for their children to have a chance at success, or young women defying the odds and creating despite the lack of support, these are the things that drive me, and the reason I felt so moved by your families desire to honor your late grandmother who no doubt created many beautiful and awe-inspiring pieces. Not only would this scholarship give me the opportunity to honor Anne and other female artists like her, but it would also help pave the way for the countless women I intend on lifting up in the future. Thank you very much for your consideration. Warmest regards, Kaylee Stewart