Beyond DIY: Intro To PAFA

I have spent years devising and practicing techniques, honing my skills independently as I make up art rules of my own. However, without a teacher or someone to show me the fundamentals of fine art, I was always missing something in my work that could take it to the next level. There was never a time when someone sat me down and taught me everything from basic vocabulary to advanced techniques. There was no one to push me or teach me things I could not so easily research. On one hand, this was freeing. I have always had the autonomy to paint freely, giving me space to explore how to do things on my own. Each painting becomes a canvas for experimentation and growth, driven solely by my instincts and desire to improve. I grew to navigate challenges independently, turning setbacks into opportunities for learning.

However, there comes a point where self-teaching reaches its limits. As much as I have grown through trial and error, there are foundational aspects of painting that I have not yet fully grasped and so much to learn about other mediums. Formal education offers more than technical knowledge; it provides a space for introspection and growth. It is a chance to gain insights into my artistic process, receive constructive feedback, and discover new perspectives that can enhance my work. Formal education is an opportunity for personal development, allowing people to uncover latent skills and refine their artistic voice. I hope to find all this and more at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA).

I have visited PAFA once before as an awe-filled enthusiast brimming with profound hopes and dreams. Now, I return to the PAFA as a student, still nurturing those dreams, eager to transform them into a remarkable reality. I could not describe how ecstatic I was receiving the news of my acceptance to PAFA’s four-week intensive program. Learning from experienced instructors and collaborating with peers who share the same passion promises to be a transformative experience. PAFA is not just an opportunity to refine my technical skills but also a chance to deepen my understanding of art on a fundamental and personal level. Being around peers and mentors who understand my challenges and aspirations gives me the chance to grow a supportive community with meaningful relationships. PAFA's enriching environment promises to foster the exchange of ideas, feedback, and exploration of diverse approaches to artistic expression. The relationships made this summer will hopefully have the potential to evolve into lasting connections, offering opportunities for both personal and professional development. PAFA represents more than just an educational opportunity; it is a community dedicated to fostering creativity and pushing artistic boundaries and I look forward to the transformative impact this experience will have on my journey.

This program also comes with some exciting perks and opportunities. At the end of the intensive, every student will have the chance to showcase their work in PAFA’s prestigious museum. This exhibition is not just the end of another summer program; it is a gateway to a broader audience and a new level of exposure. It is a chance to connect with a diverse community of art enthusiasts, critics, and supporters who visit the museum. With this platform, I can share my talents and artistic vision with a wider audience, extending beyond the classroom and into the art world at large. It is surreal to think that I will have my work displayed in such a renowned setting, where each piece can resonate with viewers and potentially leave a lasting impact. This opportunity not only validates the hard work and growth achieved during the program but it also sets the stage for future artistic endeavors and connections. With that, it is an understatement to say that I am excited to embark on this journey, and I am more than grateful to have the support of my village beside me.

Cover Photo By The facade of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia, PA. Courtesy of PAFA.

Newmuis, Kyle. 2 November 2014. Accessed 30 June 2024