By Jaime Park
October 2021
Piano cover by Kara Ng
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ppn2G01flTQ
Kara is a current ISB senior, and a talented pianist. Whether she was inspired by her brother (a fellow pianist), coaxed by her parents, or struck by a sudden burst of conviction, Kara has been playing the piano since she was 7 years old. Because she started at such a young age, piano now plays an integral role in her life. In her words, “I feel like it’s an important part of what makes me me.” When it comes to playing, music serves as both a personal challenge and an outlet for her expression. Role models in her music career, such as her piano teacher, have inspired her to take more risks with her music, and encourage her to step out of her comfort zone musically. Having played for all these years, Kara is a seasoned musician with no signs of quitting. She plans to play piano through college.
Kara's covers are played with a level of precision that surpasses most. Her playing shows no signs of uncertainty. Like a walk in the park, her posture is collected, smooth and natural, clearly a sign of a piece well-practiced. With her experience, Kara’s level of skill is unsurprising. Her cover of “Veiled Autumn” is played beautifully with clean and precise ornamentation. Regardless of difficulty level, Kara makes playing the piano look effortless. With a fantastic sense of musicality and clear rhythm, her covers and musicianship are sure to amaze.
You can find more of her playing at @kar_piano on Instagram. Be sure to check it out.
Art piece by Nico Taylor
Nico Taylor is a 10th grader at ISB. Art has been a long time interest of his. In fact, he has been drawing for as long as he can remember. A paragon to this modern era, he mostly works in digital. He is inspired by other artists such as Hiroshi Shiibashi (manga artist) to continue improving his craft, and emphasizes the catharsis of recognizing his own progress: “I think making something I'm proud of is one of the best feelings in the world”. Indeed, Nico will continue to make art and strives to become the best artist he can be, driven by the freedom of creativity that the arts offer.
Nico's art creates a fine balance between warm colors and the shadows which often pervade his pieces. The rougher texture which often accompanies this blend, further compliments it and brings out a whole new facet to “atmosphere”. “Umerakuen”’s skillfully contrasted warmth and darkness is a welcome tenant of Nico’s style that amplifies the vibrance of the piece. Its unique perspective further interests the audience while the subtle, yet atmospheric background enhances the scene.
Be sure to visit his Instagram page: @jellyboy.n for more!
Art pieces by Helena Lieu
Helena, a 12th grade student at ISB, started making art from childhood. Her primary medium is digital. Though her art originally started as a hobby, it is now driven by the need for self reflection, which allows her to explore sensitive subjects through a versatile medium. “Art is … a stepping stone for me to constantly improve as a person”. She admires the works of Gabriel Lipper (local artist), fellow art student, Alesya Zaytseva, and works by countless other artists whose styles she aims to contend with. She is currently president of ISB’s Art National Honor Society and runs an art business by accepting commissions from her clients.
Helena's works are full of color. Her art often gives the impression of ordered chaos: in which the color variety enhances the subject matter rather than distracts from it. The contrasting bold colors of Work and Worth seem inevitable to fall into conflict but instead create a synergy that works beautifully in giving the piece its signature striking nature. The blending in Synthesis gives it a soft texture. That, with its warm colors, compliments the mood of the piece. The diversity in styles, both of which are executed masterfully, is a testament to Helena’s artisanship.
Make sure to support her Instagram page: @dramatire