Here is a draft of my Statement of Purpose for the MFA application.
I am applying to the MFA in Visual Art to deepen and expand a practice grounded in curiosity, play, and a lifelong love of learning. My background includes a BS in Computer Science with an emphasis in web development, a BFA in Graphic Design, and an MS in Instructional Design, along with a professional career in graphic design and web development. Across these fields, art has remained my creative center. I am energized by taking classes, exploring new processes, and continually challenging myself to grow.
My work blends digital and hand-made materials and is strongly influenced by my childhood in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly mid-century illustration, picture books, and PBS programs such as Sesame Street and Mister Rogers. I create colorful, expressive, and playful work that emphasizes strong color relationships, texture, collage, and a sense of wonder. Using technology alongside illustration and design, I aim to make work that feels imaginative, energetic, and uplifting.
While illustration, graphic design, and abstract painting are my current focus, I am also interested in expanding into ceramics, printmaking, risograph, paper marbling, 3D objects, video, and animation. My work naturally lends itself to visual narrative, particularly picture books and media for children. I seek greater freedom, playfulness, and expression in my future work, and want to create art that feels alive and emotionally resonant.
I am drawn to this MFA program because several faculty members share similar interests, and I believe I would learn a lot through working with them. I know I will progress more quickly in a rigorous, supportive environment than on my own. I am especially interested in strengthening my ability to express and communicate ideas visually, as I believe visual communication is powerful. I value learning by doing through projects, action, and challenge – which is what I hope to gain from this program.
Recently, the city of Boise commissioned artists to design art for traffic boxes. I saw finished boxes around town and wanted to be able to design one. I wondered what mine would look like if I had the opportunity. When applications opened, I applied and was accepted. I didn’t know what it was going to be, but I felt a nervous excitement and curious anticipation to see what I could create. I wanted it to be playful, colorful, and energetic with a positive meaning, since it was in front of an elementary school. I illustrated a scene that wrapped around all four sides of the box, inspired by a board game. The title is “Move Forward with Confidence.”
Along my journey mistakes have been made and lessons have been learned. When I think of being in the MFA program, I don’t know if I will ever feel fully ‘ready’ but I do know I will do the best I can in the moment. I don’t know exactly what I am going to make or do, but I am so excited to find out! I hope my next step of moving forward in my art journey will be admission and participation in the MFA program.