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2025 Conference Proposals are now being accepted!!
March's PAEA Student Artist of the Month is
Liam Seitz!
Liam attends Lower Dauphin High School and was nominated by PAEA member Dana Attivo.
What Dana has to say about Liam:
Liam Seitz is one of the hardest working and prolific artists I have had come through my program. He thinks deeply about the work he creates and his dedication to craft is impeccable. Most recently, Liam was awarded the Best in High School Division for the YAM exhibition sponsored by PAEA. In addition, he was awarded the Best in Division for high school and first place in 2-D work at the Hummelstown Art Fest, to name just a few of his accolades. Not only does Liam paint on canvas but he also hand-paints and eco-dyes vintage and thrifted clothing which he sells on consignment at Found Collab in Harrisburg. He also participates in the craft show circuit selling his work at venues like Gray Apple Market in York PA, Harrisburg Flea in Harrisburg, PA, and ArtsFest also in Harrisburg, PA.
Liam had this to share about his biggest influence and passion for art:
My biggest influence thus far in my art career would have to be the people I've met through selling my art and the conversations I've had the opportunity of having. Speaking with so many creatives from all different backgrounds and different places in the world is an invaluable experience. I've even been lucky enough to learn from some of these people firsthand, taking art classes to hone my skills. Being surrounded by those with so much individuality inspires one to reflect and create work that reflects this. These interactions have left an impression on me, as a young person who is still finding their own personal style.
Art education is a crucial element of bettering oneself not only in terms of artistic skill but also in ways of self-reflection and thought- the latter being arguably more crucial. Interacting with fellow students and teachers is such an important tool in the artistic process that cannot be understated. As an art student, I've been able to gain so much knowledge from observing the techniques of my peers. I place such importance on critiques and advice from my peers that help me to become a more well-rounded artist. Being surrounded by like-minded artistic peers gives one a sense of belonging and community, unlike any other.
The advice that I would give to other artists is to find subject matters that truly interest them since this is when the best work is created. This can be a topic that is interesting, or even a theme one notices in their past work. The style will develop naturally, and I feel it is best to let things take their course naturally. Creating anything when not fully inspired, I have found only leads to disappointment of the end result. I think it is very important to become proficient in a medium that feels most comfortable to you, whether that be painting, drawing, textiles, or sculpture, and then build on these skills. Being excited to learn new techniques and make mistakes is a crucial part of the artistic process. In my own experience, making mistakes was the catalyst that helped me improve in skill so much.
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