In the Beginning . . . and How and Why.
Oftentimes I get asked the question ” How did you get into Art? ”
Well, to start at the beginning . . . I always drew as a kid and felt that it might be something I would do when I grew up. At first I wanted to be an architect (that’s because I was a Brady Bunch groupie), but then doubted the whole art thing in high school — my guidance counselor advised me that I would starve. That’s when thoughts of becoming a gynecologist or medical examiner set in. I for sure did not want to end up a character in a Dostoevsky novel. Yikes!
Fortunately for me I had a wonderful art teacher who pushed me to follow my heart.
In the summer before my senior year, she helped me get into a 2 month art program in Fredonia, NY, where I was fully immersed in art school life. After that, there was no looking elsewhere — an art career it was.
At a portfolio day at Syracuse University, I met the admissions director at Parsons School of Design and she loved my work and offered me a scholarship.
So at 17, I moved to the Big Apple and studied at Parsons.
Choosing art and moving to New York were the greatest decisions of my life! I feel really lucky to be able to do something that I love and to live somewhere that inspires me.
Sometimes it is weird how life works, and you realize that sometimes there are outside forces and angels that push you along the way. Always do what you love and makes you happy.
Until the next sketch!
Really enjoying your blog. Thanks for posting.
Thanks Mary!
umm I believe the greatest decision in your life was to hire me
Yes that was a great decision too!
You were a wonderful student…….it was such fun encouraging you and you just kept doing better and more interesting work. I’d forgotten about Fredonia. It really helps to have that experience that sets you up to realize that this is what you want. I absolutely remember portfolio day as if it were only yesterday. Pretty wild of that admissions person to declare that a scholarship could be yours….. and you loved it. I remember our NY trip and your late return to the hotel….. Stephanie and you were experiencing the city….. and I could have killed the two of you….. you’re the reason I have gray hair….. I’m kidding…. anyway, I’m very proud to have had the experience of being your hs teacher and of getting to know you. Best of everything always Michael. Regards to your folks