The Learning Zone

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the art that you create?

I’m in 3rd year Drawing & Painting but I don’t do much painting anymore. I focus mostly on embroidered drawings.

How long have you been interested in art? How long have you known that you wanted to pursue art as a career?

My whole life, I knew that I had always wanted a job in the arts. The only time I questioned myself is when family and friends discourage me from pursuing it as a career.

What influenced your decision to major in Drawing & Painting?

I was most exposed to drawing and painting before I enrolled in OCAD but I think I’m better suited to the Sculpture or MAAD programs. My art is very dependent on installation and rarely just stops at painting.

What do you enjoy most about your program?

I like the flexibility, they are very open to other mediums.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by conversations that I have with other people and my daily experiences. For example I recently did an extensive mold series because I had a lot moldy food in my house. I write a lot of notes and to-do lists so I made work about text. I like to include my hectic life into my art.

What is your creative process?

My creative process begins with writing and talking, rarely any sketching is involved.

What is the best art tip you ever received?

I overheard an instructor advising a student to make artwork that you can relate to, don’t make artwork that you have no association to.

What are your favourite tools to work with?

Thread, needles, different fabrics and dyes.

What two art tools could you not live without?

Needle and thread.

How would describe your work?

Very detail oriented and committed, it begins with an end in mind. I have to know where it will end up.

Has attending art school helped you develop your own personal style? If so, how?

Coming to OCAD taught me the importance to have a specific style so that people can recognize your work. It comes through a lot of failed art.

What are your plans when you graduate?

I’m divided between travelling or finding a good job. Maybe, I will pursue an art residency or internship.

What do you do to relax?

Drink wine and watch movies with friends.

What is your favourite thing about studying in Toronto?

The art scene is enormous, everyday it seems like there is a new gallery opening. Diverse neighbourhoods, you can walk one block and it’s like you are in a different city.

What do you feel is the biggest challenge facing students and artists today?

The massive sea of art, it seems that you come up with a great idea and somebody has already done it. You have to recognize when your idea is verbatim and to adjust it. Know enough about the art you are interested in, who’s done what.

Where is your favourite place to eat around OCAD U?

The Village Idiot and Pita Village.