Introduction

Beginning high school during quarantine made a difficult transition even harder, and I felt more lost than ever before. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my future and I didn’t even feel like a high schooler. My schedule felt strange and full of classes that seemed unfittingly mature. The only class that held some semblance of normalcy was my Studio Art 1 class with Mrs. Thompson. I took art during middle school, and have taken art classes/practiced art over my four years of high school. This activity has taught me how to collaborate with others in a vulnerable way and incorporate creativity into all aspects of my life. The ability to choose my own inquiry ideas/portfolio themes has taught me what I value and want to spend my time exploring. For my A.P. 3-D portfolio last year, I had to find an inquiry to examine and explore. I studied women in mythology, symbolism, and cultural art/clothing/jewelry, etc. Through this process, I discovered that I love research and applying history to my art; it’s something I want to continue well after high school. This year, my inquiry is focused on revision and growth. I am revising some of my previous artwork and developing my style more, to see how I’ve grown as an artist and student. Being able to tie my research in with my artwork has given me creative liberty in my learning. I can think about things differently, and share those findings with others.