Music is the voice of the soul. We express ourselves and find deeper meaning through music. A song that I take to heart dearly and has the most important message to me is "Brighter Days" by Blessings Offor. The message in ‘'Brighter Days'’ is about the idea that we all experience dark days. However, it is those days that lead us to brighter ones, and those brighter ones are worth the wait. Blessings Offor says "Brighter Days" was inspired by his love of telling people that through it all, it’s going to be all right. There is still pain and disappointment, but it is going to be all right, and circumstances do not have to define what 'all right' means. "Brighter Days" offers me solace. I listen to this song whenever I feel sad, lonely, or confused. This song gives me rest when I am weary and comforting reassurance when I feel as if situations in my life are not going the way I wish. "Brighter Days" inspires me to keep on going and preserve. It reminds me to forget the bad that is behind, appreciate what good remains, and look forward to what is next. I believe "Brighter days" has an overall important message of hope and strength for people struggling emotionally, mentally, physically, financially, socially, spiritually, etc. "Brighter Days" is a reminder that love will always find you in your pain and even when it feels hard to go on, remember that it will get better. Yes, pain, disappointment, and heartache are very much real and present in this world but so are hope, joy, and love. The brightest mornings always come after the darkest nights, and tomorrow is always a new day, and with each new day comes endless possibilities and opportunities.

Perseverance is a powerful attribute, and whether or not one has it defines what type of person he/she is going to be in life. The persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success is a key to living life. At the beginning of January, I caught COVID-19 and had to be quarantined in my room for 10 days. It was arduous dealing with the symptoms of COVID-19, challenging missing school, but even more difficult dealing with the anger and feeling of complete loneliness I felt being completely isolated from all my friends and family. However, despite these hardships, I managed to find the strength to make the most of a day. To weather this storm, I had to remind myself to have patience and those brighter days would come. I remembered my mother's mantra, "This too shall pass." and kept it at heart. I needed to remind myself that it was crucial to take the proper time to rest and heal for not only myself, but for others. Eventually, I realized that I wasn't completely alone. I had my dog, Falkor, always by my side and remembered that my family loved me and was always with me in one way or another. I found peace through art. Art is a huge part of who I am and to me, art is not a hobby, it is a passion. Painted, drew, and eventually, got into a zone where everything in my life stood still and time flew by unnoticed by me. Additionally, I enjoyed watching movies and sleeping in. In the end, I learned that perseverance comes from falling down and most importantly from getting back up. I understand that I can’t let roadblocks keep me from reaching my destinations because from hardships, learning and growth take place.

My journey in creating the portfolio I submitted happened last spring. At the time, I was taking a photography class, and my school was online instead of in-person. Being at home for my photography class was a blessing because I had more options, opportunities, and resources to take great photographs. The theme for my portfolio was hand photography, and there are a total of 25 different hand photographs. Each photo was taken on a Nikon D100 camera. When taking these photographs, I tried to push myself creatively and think outside the box. When taking these photographs, I asked myself, what do we use our hands for, and how can I use my surroundings and resources to take great photos? The five photos submitted with this application are titled, "Double Focus," "When Winter Meets Spring," "Making Music," "Reaching for the Light," and "Flying Ace." The photograph with the camera lens is "Double Focus." I had my brother hold a macro lens in one hand and then put his other hand behind the lens to create a warped illusion. When I took "When Winter Meets Spring," it was in the middle of April. It was spring, but the weather decided to snow that day, so I took advantage of the opportunity to take a beautiful photograph. For "Making Music," I had my brother pose with a guitar and piano. The photo of the hands reaching up is "Reaching for the Light," and I focused on the lighting to create a dramatic feel. The photo of the levitating card is "Flying Ace." I had my niece hold up her hands underneath a card on a clear wire to create this magical illusion. For this photograph, I hope viewers feel a sense of awe and wonder. After I took each photo, I edited each one of them in Snapseed. I mostly made adjustments to the brightness, contrast, saturation, highlights, shadows, etc. of each photo. In the end, I believe I was able to take astonishing photos. Three of these photos even received awards in the 2021-2022 Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. I received an Honorable Mention for "Double Focus," a Silver Key for "When Winter Meets Spring," and another Silver Key for "Making Music." Overall, photography is one of the favorite types of media I enjoy. Photography will always be a part of my life, and I will continue to take great photographs.

Art is a huge part of who I am, and to me, art is not a hobby, it is a passion. Whenever I feel sad or feel lost in this world, I turn it to the arts. I get into a zone where everything in my life stands still and time flies by unnoticed by me. I’ve always enjoyed music and doing many different types of media. I love drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, digital arts, playing the piano, and listening to music. My love for the Arts truly began to grow around 7th grade. I started piano lessons and would always be drawing or working on some project at school. Any time I would create a work of art, I would give it to a person who has touched my life in a meaningful way as a gift. They would gush all over it and tell me how I should be an artist when I grow up. It is always nice to see my work come to life, but the greatest part is the surprised look of joy on people’s faces when they see the finished product. I realized that is what the Arts are all about. The performing and fine arts are about being joy and beauty to others' lives. Most of my recent activities have coincided with my love of the performing and fine arts and my aspiration to be either a graphic designer or illustrator. Through experiences I’ve had as a member of the Mural Club and the National Art Honor Society, I’ve learned to express my creativity and bring joy to people’s lives by giving back to the community through the beauty of art. In addition to those two organizations, I have also had the privilege of being in the Groves Performing Arts Company tech crew. These activities remind me of my goals and compliments my love for the performing and fine arts. The lessons and skills I've learned from them will undoubtedly help me overcome adversity and develop a mindset that is committed to staying focused on accomplishing my goals. Overall, my goal is to have a career that incorporates my gift and love for art that not only benefits me but for others as well. My hope for the future is that the path I’m on and have laid out leads me to a career that I love and love doing. I’m passionate about pursuing further education in the world of graphic design, illustration, or any related education field. With the support and encouragement from my instructors, peers, friends, and family, I believe that I have the ability to go far in my future career as a graphic designer or illustrator. I know that a big part of life is using the gifts we receive to help others. Whether it is a kind gesture, knowledge that we pass along, or a present wrapped in a bow, when we use our gifts or talents for good, we can make a positive impact. From a small gesture to a grand one, anyone can make a difference in the lives of others, a difference that can last a lifetime. Regardless of what disasters may strike, what roadblocks I may stumble upon, or how difficult situations may appear, I will always strive for my end goal of being a graphic designer or illustrator. I’ve learned to express my creativity and bring joy to people’s lives by giving back to the community through the beauty of art. Through it all, I will remember to stay positive, persevere, work hard, and learn.

In the grand scheme of things making the world a better place can seem overwhelming. Regardless, whether it is holding the door for someone, giving an unexpected compliment, or simply just smiling at someone, a small act of kindness can have a strong ripple effect. Even though one person may not have the capacity to single-handedly change the world, he or she has the power to make a positive impact little by little every day. Every day I strive to live, learn, and hopefully make the world a better place. I aspire to make a positive impact in the world through the gifts and passions that bring me and others joy in life. Throughout the years, I have been involved in various in-school and out-of-school activities. Every activity has taught me to give back, respect, communicate, connect, and serve others. Most of my in-school activities have coincided with my love of the performing and fine arts. As a member of the Mural Club and the National Art Honor Society, I express my creativity and bring joy to people’s lives by giving back to the community through the beauty of art. In addition to those two organizations, I have also had the privilege of being in the National Honor Society, in which I strive to demonstrate great leadership, character, and significant impact of serving others. I love volunteering for any community service opportunities that come my way, and hopefully, that inspires others to serve. Always being ready to help, is a significant way to make a positive impact. There is no limit to the impact one can create contributing to a cause that matters to that person and the community. Sharing the gifts and talents we receive in life is another way to make a positive impact in the world. Art is a huge part of who I am, and to me, art is not a hobby, it is a passion. Usually, once I finish a piece of artwork, I give it to a person who has touched my life in a meaningful way. It is always nice to see my work come to life, but the greatest part is the surprised look of joy on people’s faces when they see the finished product. I realize that is what art is to me, it’s about bringing joy to people’s lives. I've always believed I have been very good at art and have a natural talent for it. More importantly, I realize that something that I enjoy brings joy to others. I know now that a big part of life is using the gifts we receive to help others. Whether it is a kind gesture, knowledge that we pass along, or a present wrapped in a bow, when we use our gifts or talents for good, we can make a positive impact. From a small gesture to a grand one, anyone can make a difference in the lives of others, a difference that can last a lifetime. All-in-all, anyone can make a positive impact in the world. The Lord says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). The world can seem like a dark and hateful place. Nevertheless, always remember that tomorrow is a new day. Each new day brings great possibilities and endless opportunities to make the world a brighter place. Having a positive and glass-half-full outlook on life spreads to others and brings light to a world full of darkness.

To me, art is not a hobby, it is a passion. I get into a zone where everything in my life stands still and time flies by unnoticed by me. I express my passion for art by participating in various art organizations at school and enjoy doing many different types of media: drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, and digital arts. Usually, once I finish a piece of artwork, I give it to a person who has touched my life in a meaningful way. It's nice to see my work come to life, but the greatest part is the surprised look of joy on people's faces when they see the finished product. This leads me to realize that I want to pursue a career in the art world. My mom always says that if you do what you love every day for work, you will never work a day in your life. I believe it is important to do what you love and love what you do. People should always be proud of what they do, even if not everyone gets it. Whenever I am creating art, I feel calm, relaxed, and happy. More importantly, art to me is about bringing joy and beauty to other people's lives. Overall, art is a big part of who I am. Art is important to society because we express ourselves through art. It is a sense of communication in different and unique ways. People from all over the world with different backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and situations have the power to effect change and move mountains. Art influences how we feel and see the world around us. It's a way to blend imagination and reality. Art inspires, benefits, and motivates us to make a difference, all the while providing a multitude of opportunities and possibilities.

While less-known, Vladimir Kush is a trail-blazing and inspiring artist. He is considered a founder of Metorphorical Realism: a blending of the imagination and reality. The way Kush brings his pieces alive in a realistic yet dreamlike, surrealist way pushes and inspires me to think more creatively and outside of the box, all the while reminding me that there are an infinite number of possibilities and discoveries. One of my favorite and inspiring pieces of art by Vladimir Kush is "To a Safe Haven." It's a breathtaking, emotionally deep, and powerful work of art. Kush painted the flame of the burning candle as a symbol of the human soul in trepidation as it flickers and waivers. The candle is an allegory to a lighthouse, and its light brings the hope of salvation to lost sea voyagers in a sea of despair. From the dark, mysterious hands folded in prayer arise. I believe they are the hands of God the Father, simultaneously protecting the flame from the wind and focusing the beam of light on the vessel in distress. If you look closely, the candle's wick is a person, which I believe to be Jesus Christ. Vladimir Kush presents this troubled ship as an allegory of a lonely man seeking salvation in the ocean of life. I love "To a Safe Haven" because I can relate to it on a deeper personal level. At times, I feel as if I'm lost in sea darkness and trying to stay afloat above the rough waves of life. I am a firm believer in Jesus Christ. Experiencing this piece makes me feel understood and reminds me that Jesus is my Savior and lighthouse guiding me through the hardships of life. "To a Safe Haven" reminds me to have faith and hope, and I do.

It seems that every moment of this year I have been doing nothing but worrying about what comes next. It’s difficult not knowing what the future has in store for you or hearing and seeing that fellow classmates, friends, and family are already set on or have completed their goals and plans for life. I’ve always had some game plan about what college, major, and job I wanted to pursue and what goals I wanted in life. It’s always been to attend a four-year college/university, major in some studio art, and have a career in the art world. Right now that plan has molded to where I attend a four-year college/university, majoring in either graphic design or illustration, and have a career as a graphic designer or illustrator. I plan to attend either Wayne State University or Oakland University for graphic design, or Kendall College of Art and Design for illustration. It's important to love what you do and love to do what you love. Additionally, I’ve always thought about opening a small business which could be fun and an adventure. I've always loved the concept of being your own boss. In the end, I hope to have a nice vacation home up north to spend most summers on the lake, swimming, fishing, or motoring boating with family, like the one my family has now. I hope to have a career that I love, is financially stable, makes it easy for me to take time off to spend time with family or friends. Most of all I wish to find love and have a family of my own someday. Overall, regardless of what disasters may strike, what roadblocks I may stumble upon, or how difficult situations may appear, I will always strive and aspire to achieve my end goals.

Music is the voice of the soul. We express ourselves and find deeper meaning through music. Music has the power to bring out nearly or possibly all emotions that we experience in our lives. Most importantly, it has the power to inspire the best out of us. A song that inspires me is "Brighter Days" by Blessings Offor. According to the artist, the message in ‘'Brighter Days'’ is about the idea that we all experience dark days. However, it is those days that lead us to brighter ones and is what makes those brighter ones worth the wait. The music itself has an uplifting harmony and melody that makes you believe that brighter days are amongst the darker ones. I listen to this song whenever I am sad or when life is not going the way I wish. It inspires me to keep on going and preserve. It reminds me to forget what is gone, appreciate what remains, and move and look forward to what is next. This song has the power to change lives and bring someone out of their darkest moments. "Brighter Days" is a reminder to have hope and that love will always find you in your pain. The morning always comes after the darkest night, and tomorrow is always a new day, and with each new day comes endless possibilities and opportunities.

Art is important to society because we express ourselves through the arts. It inspires and motivates us to make a difference while providing a multitude of opportunities and possibilities. Art to me is not a hobby it is a passion and a big part of who I am. My favorite piece of art and one that inspires me is "Diaries of Discoveries" by Vladimir Kush. "Diaries of Discoveries" is a breathtaking piece and a great form of surrealism art. Surrealism is a way of blending imagination and reality. This is something that Vladimir Kush has been able to successfully accomplish for this painting and all of his paintings. The open book in Vladimir Kush's painting represents the opportunity to bring the readers to a limitless number of places, times, and realities. It shows the moment when the imagination transfers the reader from the wearisome daily routine to the distant regions of fantasy leading to the instant of discovery and revelation. In this painting, the moment of discovery is shown as each turned page transforms into a bird that takes flight, which adds to the amazement and admiration for this painting. The wide-open window provides a way into this new world. "Diaries of Discoveries" is a piece I especially admire because it inspires it has a great feeling of wonder, elegance, and creativity. It brings a strong sense of beauty, freedom, and endless possibilities. The incredible painting and artistic skills demonstrated in this piece inspire me to become a better artist. The way Vladimir Kush was able to bring this piece alive in a realistic but yet dream-like way pushes me to think more creatively and outside of the box reminding me that there are an infinite number of possibilities and discoveries that can be discovered through art.

Art is important to society because we express ourselves through the arts. It inspires and motivates us to make a difference while providing a multitude of opportunities and possibilities. Art to me is not a hobby it is a passion and a big part of who I am. A piece of art that inspires me is "Diaries of Discoveries" by Vladimir Kush. "Diaries of Discoveries" is a breathtaking piece and a great form of surrealism art. Surrealism is a way of blending imagination and reality. This is something that Vladimir Kush has been able to successfully accomplish for all of his paintings. The open book in Vladimir Kush's painting represents the opportunity to bring the readers to a limitless number of places, times, and realities. It shows the moment when the imagination transfers the reader from the wearisome daily routine to the distant regions of fantasy leading to the instant of discovery and revelation. In this painting, the moment of discovery is shown as each turned page transforms into a bird that takes flight, which adds to the amazement and admiration for this painting. The wide-open window provides a way into this new world. "Diaries of Discoveries" specifically inspires me because it has a great feeling of wonder and creativity. It brings a strong sense of beauty, freedom, and endless possibilities. The incredible painting and artistic skills demonstrated in this piece inspire me to become a better artist. The way Vladimir Kush was able to bring this piece alive in a realistic but yet dream-like way pushes me to think more creatively and outside of the box, reminding me that there are an infinite number of possibilities and discoveries that can be made through art.

Hello, my name is Mikaila Doede. I'm currently a senior at Wylie E. Groves High School and will be graduating at the end of the spring of 2022. Throughout my whole high school career I have maintained a GPA of about 4.0 or higher, and I was inducted into the National Honors Society in the fall of 2020. Besides all of that, art is a big part of who I am. Art to me is not a hobby it is a passion. I enjoy doing many different mediums of art such as drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, and digital arts. I participate in many of the art organizations at school like the National Art Honors Society and Mural Club. The National Art Honors Society's purpose is to increase awareness of art-related service in the community. We share our artwork with one another, do art activities, and discuss art-related community service opportunities. We have painted rocks for breast cancer patients, made art for the Oxford High School community, and helped work the Groves Art as Therapy event. With Mural club, the goal is decorating the public spaces of Groves, connecting students through art, and improving the painting skills of students. But it's not just the fine arts I enjoy I also enjoy the performing arts as well. Throughout my whole high school journey I've been a part of the Groves Performing Arts Company, which is my school's drama club. I have done many plays and theater festivals as a part of the technical crew. Then on my own, I also enjoy playing the piano. More importantly, the arts, whether performing or fine, are important to society because we express ourselves through the arts. People underestimate how powerful and important the arts are. Art is a sense of communication in different and unique ways. People from all over the world with different backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and situations have the power to effect change and move mountains. We can also benefit from art emotionally and psychologically. For example, according to Dorien Eising, a research assistant from Mental Health Foundation, participating in the arts can enable people to deal with a wide range of mental ill-health conditions and psychological distress. Art engagement alleviates anxiety, depression, and stress, which shows that the arts have the power to heal. Additionally, there are many financial opportunities that the arts can bring as well. In the end, art influences how we feel and see the world around us. It is a way to blend the imagination and reality. Through art and music, we have the ability to change opinions, form values, and share our experiences with one another. It inspires and motivates us to make a difference while providing a multitude of opportunities and possibilities. Art to me is bringing joy to people’s lives and is a great way to give back to others.