Each month I will be spotlighting one of my students – past or present, and their artistic ventures! I work with students of all ages and abilities and you’ll get to learn a little bit about these amazing artists and their work!
Our October spotlight is on:
Gage Smartnick
“I’m Gage and I’m 15 and in 9th grade at James M Bennett High School. I like swimming and I swim on the YMCA swim team, running, playing on the computer, and art classes. I was adopted from China and have 3 brothers and 1 sister.”
How long have you been taking art lessons? “8 years”
Why did you begin to take art lessons/how did you become interested in art? “To get more creative.”
What’s your favorite thing about art? “I like seeing the finished product from all my hard work. “
What are your favorite mediums and/or subjects for your artwork? “I like painting landscapes the most.”
When you’re making your art do like to listen to music or watch tv for inspiration (if so what)? “I like it to be quiet when I work on my art. At home, I usually paint in my room because it’s away from all the noise.”
What is your favorite thing you’ve ever created and why? “The picture of Marty, my sister’s dog, that I painted her for her birthday.”
Do you have a favorite color? ” My favorite color when I was younger was green, but now I like blue.”
What or who inspires you to create your artwork? “Ms. Jenell”
Is there anything else about you that you’d like us to know? “I’m an uncle already.”
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to become an artist or improve their skills? “Follow your dreams and never give up.”
Gage always has a positive outlook on his art – even when his work isn’t quite going the way he’d like! Instead of getting frustrated and giving up, he takes his time and carefully continues to work on the piece until he’s able to reach his artistic goals! His perseverance and determination is inspiring! Keep on creating Gage!
Check out our other student spotlights here!
