Xixi

Xu

At the beginning of this journey, I set the theme of this portfolio to be relatively specific and objective. I wanted to explore people's state of mind as they experience and recollect various emotions and to explore this subject with multiple ways of presentation. But my state of mind also changed as I was creating, and I gradually realized that if I wanted my work to be more compelling, I needed to imbue it with my thoughts and voices, too, as this is what led to an artistic language that is exclusively unique to me. After the pieces were completed, I began to write statements and written evidence for them, for which I realized that careful deliberation and a personal touch would allow my audience to comprehend my message better. Therefore, I revised my written statements to become more heartfelt by presenting them as sincere, precise, and intelligible text.

While developing my portfolio, I reviewed at least five to six prototypes before officially working on each piece. I originated my technique by making this pink heart patterned top and green puffy skirt dress. I worked through two patterns and material substitutions before creating a satisfying piece, as I was constantly pressuring myself. I only underwent a little experimentation or practice while making this heart-embroidered and cut-out set, as everything was formed unprepared and free of drafts. I followed my inner inspirations and instilled them into my work, which resulted in some of the shapes being wonky. Still, audiences could perceive the liveliness and passion from the irregularity of the forms, and indeed, I maintained my dedication to craftsmanship and the pursuit of details. When I made a piece that required spraying paint on transparent TPU snakeskin, I had to try it 12 times before I finally got the pattern and effect I wanted. Practicing, experimenting, and revising are crucial in refining my craftsmanship and developing a level of attention to detail that is ultimately reflected in my work.

My work is both ornamental and practical, which gives it a certain artistic and commercial merit. I take this into account in my choice of materials and development process, as well as in the advancement of my ideas and concepts, but rather than prioritizing practicality, I try to combine the visual aspect with the intricate detailing and craftsmanship that I incorporate into each piece. Such a concept also encompasses my tendency not to want my work confined to a particular role or intent. I neutralize and balance the tendencies and functions of the work, whether emotional or physical, and in doing so, I ultimately achieve comparative equality of reality and artistry in my work. My works do not refer to or borrow from any contemporary or historical art styles, although they must have influenced me to a certain extent. It is the accumulation and precipitation over the years that brings me inspiration.

My teachers and classmates were very supportive and gave me a lot of encouragement and criticism, including their comments about me, all of which allowed me to get a better sense of what the external perceptions of me and my work were so that I could adjust my direction as appropriate. My school officials supported my growth as an art student, as my principal and house principal wrote letters of recommendation for me to the Parsons School of Design, and I am now a Parsons student. My advice to other art and design students is to follow your heart!

One of the fundamental philosophies I hold dear, and that I would like to share with my fellow principals is the importance of allowing the creative abilities of our students to take flight. Each student possesses a unique set of talents and perspectives, and we must provide them with an environment where they can explore, experiment, and express themselves freely. The AP Art and Design Program serves as a sanctuary for budding artists, allowing them to delve into the depths of their imagination and bring their visions to life.

In this endeavor, we must focus on the expertise of our dedicated visual art instructors. They are not just teachers but mentors who guide our young artists in transforming their raw creativity into meaningful creations. Art is not just about painting or sculpting; it is a language, a medium through which ideas, emotions, and experiences are conveyed. Our instructors play a pivotal role in helping students decipher this language and channel their artistic energies effectively.

By encouraging our students to explore various art mediums, we provide a holistic learning experience. Art is not confined to the canvas; it transcends boundaries and manifests in many forms—from digital art and photography to performance arts and installations. By exposing our students to this diverse spectrum, we broaden their horizons and equip them with a versatile skill set.

The world becomes their canvas, and each stroke of the brush, every click of the camera, and all the nuances of their performances become a part of the larger tapestry of human expression. Through this exploration, students learn not only about different art forms but also about themselves. They discover their strengths, confront challenges, and learn the art of perseverance – invaluable qualities in any field they pursue.

I take immense pride in the success stories that emerge from our AP Art and Design Program, and one such shining example is Ms. Yu. She is a beacon of inspiration, showcasing our students' incredible potential. Seeing her flourish reinforces my belief in the significance of programs like AP Art and Design in shaping our society's future leaders, innovators, and thinkers.

To my fellow principals, I urge you to embrace the philosophy that creativity knows no bounds. In a world driven by technology and automation, the ability to think creatively sets individuals apart. By fostering an environment that nurtures artistic expression, we not only enrich the lives of our students but also contribute to a future where innovation and creativity thrive.