WHITNEY YOUNG

Visual Arts Department

SELF RELIANCE

2020

Acrylic on loose canvas, wooden frame with painted twine detail

40"x40

The development of my abstract portfolio throughout senior year has been crucial to my confidence as an artist. In years past I have thoroughly enjoyed my work, but felt trapped in the monotony of trying to express objects of the physical world, rather than something more organic such as the human mind. It is extremely important to me to not compare my work to the objects which they represent, but to appreciate the uniqueness of expression for each individual mind. Obviously there was a plan of the basic structure of this piece, but the actual details are created completely in the moment based on my current state of mind. The main focus of this piece, and others made throughout senior year, was to be completely non judgmental during the creation because I have recognised that judgement leads to fear, and fear leads to constraint within work, and stunting creative expression. I also really enjoyed creating the frame, which is extremely linear in comparison to the organic shapes of the actual piece. This piece has no direct meaning, and is to be interpreted individually, fit to whatever experience each person has lived as a unique, wonderful human being.

Dear Class of 2020 ...

I am so immensely grateful for the opportunity Dreyfoos has given me to integrate Visual Arts into my high school education. I want to thank Mr. Armetta for not only being an amazing art teacher, but also a mentor for progressive thought. It has been so inspiring to see everyone grow as not only artists, but as complex, creative individuals as well. Thank you to my friends for inspiring me to be the truest version of myself. I love each of you with my whole heart and cannot wait to see you grow into a more passionate version of your truest self.

-Whitney Young <3

DEAR CLASS OF 2021

Senior year was honestly the most difficult for me because of the personal responsibility of college applications, specifically the essays. Begin to plan your essays during the summer, and develop them as soon as possible, once those are done you're golden. Don’t be scared to ask people for help, you will not be a burden, people want to help you succeed!

Take senior year as a transition into a more independent life; you no longer are focusing on developing as much as a portfolio so, experiment with your mediums and style!

Always remember that everything happens for a reason, and every time you struggle, ultimately you will learn from your mistakes and come back with more knowledge about yourself. Don't limit yourself in terms of adhering to a certain section of your personality, you have a complex mind so you should show it.

-Whitney Young

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