Carson Zgoda

Interview with Carson

How did you first get involved in art?

I had always loved art growing up, and when I learned I could combine art with science I never looked back.

How did you research which college you wanted to attend?

I had the chance to meet some of RIT's medical illustration professors 1 on 1 and take a look throughout their facility. Additionally, I had the opportunity to attend a summer art camp at RIT as a junior in high school and thoroughly enjoyed the campus.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in medical illustration?

I find my art to be a gateway to my personality. You might say that you're getting a chance to see my need for organization when looking at my neatly illustrated diagrams, or perhaps my sense of humor when looking at a psychotic self-portrait of mine.

How do you do your art? Do you have a preferred method of working?

Growing up, I solely focused on traditional art, but as I studied my college courses I became more and more fond of digital methods. My professional work now consists mostly of digital illustrations and 3D models and animations.

What advice might you have for other aspiring artists?

I think it would have been beneficial to hear how important networking is. It's the people you build relationships with that help you succeed the most in your professional career.

Is there anything you would have done differently in high school knowing what you know now?

Practice a lot and embrace critique. Follow other artists and their work. Even if it's as simple as watching Bob Ross or YouTube, it always kept my interest and desire to improve.