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2025 Conference Proposals are now being accepted!!
March's PAEA Student Artist of the Month is
Haley!
Haley attends Pocono Mountain West High School and was nominated by PAEA member Kristen Miele-Beatty.
What Kristen has to say about Haley:
As a leader in our Advanced Placement Art program and President of the National Art Honor Society, Haley has consistently demonstrated excellence, creativity, and a strong work ethic. Haley has not only excelled in AP Art History, AP Drawing, and AP 2D Studio Art and Design, but has also taken the initiative to engage her peers in meaningful projects that utilize art to enrich our community, such as the mural project for a local elementary school. Her remarkable problem-solving skills, along with her contributions to school musical productions and art exhibitions, showcase her multifaceted talent. Above all, Haley embodies kindness and responsibility, inspiring those around her and demonstrating that art can be a powerful force for positive change. She is truly deserving of this honor.
Haley had this to share with other artists:
As an artist, I believe there is always room for growth in skill, technique, and style. One of the most valuable resources in my artistic journey has been the guidance and advice from fellow artists and mentors. This support has significantly shaped who I am as an artist, and I am passionate about sharing insights that can help others on their creative paths.
First, it's essential to understand that drawing inspiration from other artists is perfectly acceptable. I once feared that this would compromise my originality or lead to plagiarism. However, studying the techniques, styles, and choices of others can genuinely enhance your own artistic voice. Inspiration fuels creativity, and what matters is how you interpret and integrate these influences into your unique work.
Secondly, create art that resonates with you rather than what you think will please others. It can be tempting to chase public approval, but the most rewarding art comes from personal expression. Focus on what speaks to you and what makes your work distinctive. Ultimately, your art should reflect your interests and passions.
Finally, I urge fellow artists not to destroy their work. I’ve made the mistake of discarding numerous pieces instead of choosing to improve them or set them aside for later reflection. Each artwork, even the ones that don’t meet your expectations, represents countless hours of effort and learning. Destroying them only diminishes opportunities for growth and self-improvement. Embrace your journey and see past your mistakes; often, they can lead to greater insights and creativity.
These three pieces of advice—embracing inspiration, prioritizing personal expression, and valuing your work—have profoundly benefited my artistic journey and can certainly empower others as well.
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