In 2023, I created He Keeps Looking at Me, a piece that was displayed in an art show I participated in and a deeply personal expression of resilience and vulnerability. Using acrylic paint, micro pens, and blue colored pencils, I aimed to craft a visual narrative that reflects Marilyn Monroe’s struggles and, on a broader scale, the challenges many women face in feeling targeted and scrutinized. This artwork draws from Monroe’s life and the metaphorical wolves of Hollywood—a representation of the predatory forces that followed her. Monroe herself is depicted as a spectral figure in white, outlined in blue-colored pencil, symbolizing her haunting legacy and the fragility of her existence in the relentless glare of fame. Her ghostly presence is pursued by the wolf rendered in meticulous detail with the micro pens. His fur bears disruptive black lines to echo the aesthetic of old black-and-white films, evoking the era in which Monroe lived. The wolf’s sharp shadows contrast with the purity of Monroe’s figure, emphasizing the tension and imbalance in their dynamic. One of my favorite aspects of the piece is the use of a blue window, which introduces the wolf into the scene. This stark contrast between Monroe’s ghostly white figure and the blue-lit wolf highlights the eerie, unrelenting nature of her struggles. The blue hue also adds a melancholic tone, underscoring the deeper emotional resonance of the story I wanted to tell. Creating this piece was not just an artistic endeavor but also a deeply personal one. I was inspired by my own experiences of feeling watched and vulnerable, a sentiment that I believe many women share. Monroe’s story is emblematic of how societal pressures and predatory forces target women, making her a powerful symbol of these challenges. This connection fueled my desire to bring her story—and my own emotions—to life through this piece. This piece allowed me to channel my emotions and experiences into something tangible and meaningful. It became an outlet for my frustrations, a way to process my thoughts, and a form of advocacy, shedding light on the often-overlooked nuances of female resilience. I consider this artwork one of my most impactful creations because it serves as a bridge between my personal feelings and a broader conversation about empowerment and perseverance. Sharing it with others has shown me how art can not only communicate but also unite people in understanding and empathy. It remains a reminder of the strength we all carry within, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.

Art has been my lifeline since childhood, the language through which I navigate and express my emotions and perceptions of the world. It is not just a hobby or interest; it is an intrinsic part of who I am. My dream is to integrate art into my career, leveraging its power to impact others. My passion for art runs deep, rooted in a profound personal connection that shapes my identity and self-expression. Each creation I bring to life is imbued with an emotional resonance, both with the subject matter and the process of crafting the world within my art. However, amidst this passion lies a challenge that threatens to hinder my aspirations: financial constraints. While Winthrop University has offered me a scholarship opportunity as part of my affiliation with Kappa, making it the most feasible option, the financial burden of obtaining my bachelor's degree in Fine Arts with a focus on graphic design still looms large. My family, despite working tirelessly, faces the harsh reality of insufficient funds to support my education without sacrificing more than we can afford. This scholarship represents more than just financial aid; it symbolizes the gateway to realizing my dreams and alleviating the burden on my family. With its support, I can pursue my degree with renewed vigor and focus, unencumbered by the financial worries that have plagued us. Moreover, it will reignite my passion for art and graphic design, ensuring that my creative pursuits never feel like a burden to those I love. Ultimately, this scholarship will not only enable me to complete my education but also reignite my excitement for learning and creating. It will empower me to pursue my passion for art and embark on a career path where I can utilize my talents to craft beautiful and impactful works.

Navigating life with an anxiety disorder has been a journey of self-discovery and resilience for me. As I grapple with its enduring effects, particularly in social settings, I've come to realize the profound impact it has had on my perceptions and aspirations. In my younger years, public events and crowded spaces didn't evoke the same apprehension they do now. Over time, however, this anxiety took root, shaping my preferences and altering my goals. While I once envisioned a career in a bustling social environment, I've now redirected my aspirations towards the tranquility of remote work, finding solace in the quietude of my own space. Communication has been a persistent challenge in my relationships, requiring patience and understanding from both sides. Trust issues and social avoidance have further complicated these dynamics, making genuine connections a gradual and deliberate process. Yet, amidst these struggles, I've found a supportive community in my peers at community college. Their empathy and acceptance have provided a haven where I can openly express myself without reservation. Living with anxiety has heightened my awareness of the world, offering a unique perspective that diverges from the norm. While this heightened sensitivity isn't always negative, it does influence how I perceive certain situations and interact with others. Empathy, however, remains a work in progress, as I grapple with understanding viewpoints beyond my own. Navigating misconceptions about my mental health has been another hurdle, with some mistaking my anxiety for other conditions, such as autism and borderline personality disorder. Learning to prioritize my understanding of my mental health journey and disregarding unfounded judgments has been liberating. Despite the challenges, I'm optimistic about the future. Beginning therapy is a daunting yet hopeful step towards healing, especially as I confront the complexities of my mind, including an eating disorder that has developed over time. I'm committed to prioritizing both my physical and mental well-being, recognizing the importance of listening to and honoring the signals my body sends. In essence, my journey with anxiety has been one of growth and self-acceptance. It's a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others, acknowledging that everyone's experiences and perspectives are valid and deserving of respect. As I embark on this path towards healing, I'm hopeful for a future where I can nurture both my physical and mental health with compassion and acceptance. In essence, my journey with anxiety has been one of growth and self-acceptance. It's a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others, acknowledging that everyone's experiences and perspectives are valid and deserving of respect. As I embark on this path towards healing, I'm hopeful for a future where I can nurture both my physical and mental health with compassion and care.