Portrait by Stella Han
My first dream was to become a painter when I was five. As I grew older my passions became varied, yet they were always art related; whether it was being an art teacher, comic artist, or illustrator and so on. I had my first opportunity to learn painting when I was in the 2nd grade, however after two sessions, it was unfortunately cancelled due to low enrolment.
My second artistic opportunity came when I was in the 9th grade. At first I was ecstatic, though soon enough I became disappointed. The teacher merely directed me in how to trace and lacked any traditional skill training. The fees for the class became too much for my parents, and again I was forced to leave.
By the time college rolled around I had to create and manage my portfolio all by myself and luckily I was accepted in School of Visual Arts in New York. I was truly excited to learn ‘real’ art. Once again, it was a discouraging experience because my painting professor told me: “Skills don’t matter.” All I learned from there was to paint and draw without any direction. The only feedback I received from my professors was: “That’s good.” I yearned to learn more about how the old masters created their stunning works, and wanted to discover their rigorous methods and skills; however I simply couldn’t find the answers to my questions.
After the first semester of college, I had to come back home yet again because we could no longer afford the tuition, and I needed to work full-time to help support my family. After a few years of just working and neglecting my creative skills, I thought it was high time to do something with my art and after weeks of researching, I found Web Art Academy.
The website answered many questions I’ve had for a long time. Web Art Academy taught me practical and innovative ways to solve my creative obstacles; having the opportunity to study the Old Masters Academy will help me to compound all the lessons I have learned so far on Web Art.
When I start a painting, I feel great and motivated. As most artists will understand, I truly feel alive, but I can’t seem to finish a painting because I feel lost, and I become mired in self-doubt; as if I need a few arrows to guide me and help portray the painting in a way I truly desire.
I would be truly grateful if I win the Old Masters Academy; I am eager to receive any training I can to finally achieve the skills I’ve been wanting, and to not get discouraged again. Thank you!
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