Mickala Cifarelli
Digital Media Department
Embedded Files
Self Reflection
Self Reflection
2020
Mirror, inkjet print, mod podge
8.5in x 12.5in
My work has always been an outlet for me to work on my internal problems, using photography as a nonverbal way to cope. Throughout my life I've struggled with confidence, body image, and self-worth; my current concentration explores the human figure, trying to teach myself how to accept myself in my most natural state. I took that a step further by using myself as the model for this piece. Sitting in front of the camera was the most powerful I've ever felt while still being vulnerable. When it came time to upload my work I felt sick to my stomach, horrified of what other people may think. But I would never know what people thought if I didn't put myself out there and do what makes me happy. I had to realize that I needed to keep being vulnerable in order to let myself feel that power; in every aspect of my life. At the end of the day, I make my work for myself, but I hope it can make other people analyze things within themselves as well.
First senior black out
Universal 2019
Sophomore peprally
Prom 2019
Dear Class of 2020 ...
Dear Class of 2020 ...
Freshman year I came into Dreyfoos only knowing miss Sonya Soloveyeva, the quiet, sleepy, Russian from my middle school. Both of us scared and confident we'd never make any friends. But over time we made some, and I would like to thank all of them for sticking around and dealing with me and my crazy Russian counterpart. Dreyfoos wouldn't have been the same without you guys and you all truly mean the world to me. ♥
I came to Dreyfoos trying to get away from the small town I grew up in. I wanted to be exposed to new ideas and new experiences, and that's exactly what I got. Being at Dreyfoos has taught me how to be confident in my work and my opinions. But along with that, being in an environment that is so expressive with no judgment pushed me to break out of my shell. I’ve enjoyed everything that being an artist has taught me about the world. Being able to talk about artworks and understand other people's perspectives on them has reflected over to my everyday life. It’s given me a greater appreciation for life itself. Getting to where I am today was probably the most painful but rewarding thing I could've ever done for myself, and I could never be the person I am today without it, and I want to thank all of my teachers and classmates for providing an environment that has allowed for that.
New York trip 2018
My people ♥
New York trip 2019
Untitled
Intertwined
Death by Peach
Untitled
Valentines day freshman year
Holiday day freshman year
DEAR CLASS OF 2021
DEAR CLASS OF 2021
First off, I want to congratulate you for making it through 4 years, and you should truly be proud of yourself. My biggest piece of advice for your senior year is to live every moment to the fullest. Take it from someone who's year ended short. There are so so so many things I wish I had done while I still had the chance. Go to that party, make that art, go on that road trip, do everything you want to do without hesitation because senior year should be your best year.
On that note, don't let college get to you too much. Of course keep your grades up and try your hardest. I'm a mediocre student when at my best, I was convinced I wouldn't get in anywhere but managed to get into 6/7 of my schools with scholarships. I wont say that I didn't push myself, but I wish I hadn't planned my life around not getting accepted before I even applied. Everything works out how it should so don't waste your senior year stressing, like I said spend every moment being happy.
Best wishes,
Mickala Cifarelli
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