My name is Shiri C., and I am an animation major at UMBC with a lifelong passion for visual storytelling. Drawing has been an integral part of my life since I was a child. From my earliest memories of sketching to the art I create today, art has always been my language—a means through which I communicate with the world. I started my journey into digital art eight years ago, teaching myself how to use Photoshop.

Over the years, I’ve built a pretty diverse skill set that goes beyond animation, including web design, digital content creation, design, and illustration. One of my proudest moments was designing a workbook for MAKOM, an organization that supports people with disabilities. I’ve also created unofficial book ads on social media using my graphic design and illustration skills, which got great feedback from bestselling authors including Ana Huang and Stephanie Garber. My most-liked post, a collaboration with Lynn Painter showing the tropes of Better Than the Movies, reached over 11k likes on Instagram. I also illustrated The Photographer's Son, a children’s book about a WWII family’s real-life story of surviving the Holocaust, written by Maya C. Klinger, a Yad Vashem award-winning author. Beyond my artistic practice, I’m passionate about promoting cultural appreciation, and language learning. I’m fluent in three languages, including English and Spanish, which helps me connect with various cultures and influences. As an artist, my ultimate goal is to tell stories that resonate with people from all walks of life.

Melting Sun--My artwork explores the connection between nature, emotions, and surrealism. Melting Sun represents transformation—how everything in life, from time to our own feelings, is always shifting.

In this piece, the sun has eyes, almost as if it is aware of its own slow melting into the sea. The melting effect symbolizes the emotions of nature, blending day into night, warmth into coolness, and stability into change. The pastel clouds above create a dreamlike atmosphere, adding a sense of calm and softness to the scene. The contrast between the sun’s solid form and its melting state reflects how nothing in nature remains the same, yet everything is interconnected.

Mahal’s Secret is a poster I designed to capture a sense of mystery and heritage. Inspired by Indian architecture and storytelling, I wanted the design to feel immersive like stepping into a hidden world. The use of warm tones and shadows helps create a sense of intrigue, hinting at a story waiting to be uncovered.

I focused on balancing elegance and suspense through typography and composition, making sure every detail contributed to the overall mood. This project reflects my interest in storytelling through design, using visuals to evoke curiosity and emotion. Mahal’s Secret is more than just a poster, it’s an invitation to explore the unknown.

Howdy there, My name is Diondre Roane, I am a 2D animator with a strong passion for high action and storytelling. This passion grew within me as a child when watching Saturday morning cartoons and Shounen anime. with in my work I thrived to create pieces that are able to tell stories that resonate with my audience for their entire lives.