In eighth grade, Mrs. Magee encouraged me to take an art class in high school. I did not have any passion for art at the time, but I trusted that she saw artistic potential in me. My passion for art ignited in Mr. Koons’ class where I learned that being an art student was not only a course, but also a unique environment. I was in class with students I had never met before and we each brought our own energy to the classroom that was expressed through our work. I liked the challenges that art class presented. I live a very structured lifestyle during the rest of my day. In the morning, I follow a routine. Once at school, my math, science, Spanish, and history courses rely heavily on accuracy of numbers and facts. Even at cross country or track practice, I am running laps between two lane lines, exerting myself to meet my coach’s time expectations, and following his training regimen. Art is my time in the day to take control of what I am doing with no routine, accuracy, numbers, or facts. It’s my opportunity to venture outside the lines. 

     Mr. Koons and Mrs. Hall both gave me lessons in technique and they encouraged me to create my own style. They’ve inspired me to design pieces, some of which, I am very proud, and they’ve given me reassurance at times when I forgot why I am an art student. I found a passion and niche in art class. With that, signing up for AP art felt like it was the last lap in the mile. Although it would be the most difficult, it was the last step to completing my high school art journey. While this artistic endeavor is ending, I truly believe I will continue to find art wherever life takes me.