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language collaboration form memory knowing observation dreams attention to detail reflectiveness success repose self esteem commitment experimentation group interaction frustration risk taking delighT wisdom comparison failure r e fin e m e nt foresight circumspection investigation unexpectedness Cover 2/Inside Front Cover in their words…
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Cover 1/Front Cover
ambition
re asoningrefl ective ne s s
ob s e rvation
cre atiVITY
Inte ll ect
memory fore sight que stioning
se lf e ste em
languageris k ta king
succe s sfailure
wisdom
expression
comparison
individuality
form
de lighT
inve stigation
wit
refin
ement
circumspection
k nowing
frustration
craftsmans hip
unexpectedne s s
curiosITY
constructive criticism
group inte raction stre ngth
repos e
commitme nt
atte ntion to detail
dre ams
expe rime ntation
collaboration
Cover 2/Inside Front Cover
in their words…
humor
wit
mirth
TALENT
SKILL
COMMITMENT
attention
to detail
COLLABORATION
PROGRESS
intuitive, reasoning,
reflective faculties
SENSE OF
THE TERRIFIC
flirtation
time
management
missed deadline
emergency backup reserve
concerts
performances
exhibitions
courage
sleep
call home
eat
idea
development
creative experimentation
VCU basketball
memory
expression
dreams
form
individuality
Arts Honors
study
abroad
mentors
internships
joy
fulfillment
coffee
wearsunscreen
strength
thoughts
of the
beach
const
ructiv
e cr
itici
sm
questions
Belle Isle,
Byrd Theatre,
Richmond’s
charms
2
thirst for
knowledge
VCUarts brain not to scale
STUDENT LIFE AT VCUarts
How can you know what VCUarts is really like until
you’re here? Well… you can’t. But we thought posing
the same 13 questions to students from each VCUarts
undergraduate major might help. These students are
recent recipients of the much-coveted VCUarts Dean's
Scholarship. There are similarities in their responses,
and as to be expected, many differences.
Those who plan to attend VCUarts will find their words
and advice enlightening - and we hope - helpful.
Enjoy.
3
4
CONTENTS
What made you decide to come to VCU? 6
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience? 8
Student InterviewsAda Cooke, Art Foundation 10
Lauren Leigh Hall, Art Education 12
Allison Frew, Art History 14
Ian Edwards, Cinema 16
Cara Frye, Communication Arts 18
Meg J. Roberts, Craft/Material Studies 22
Aaron Burr Johnson, Dance & Choreography 24
Nedim Sudic, Fashion Design 28
Rachel Z. Walters, Fashion Design 30
Whitney Ann Stevens, Fashion Merchandising 32
Karla Mickens, Graphic Design 34
Lauren O’Neill, Graphic Design 38
Linda J. Clark, Interior Design 42
Kirk Zamierowski, Kinetic Imaging 44
Melanie Libbey, Music 46
Katherine Duckworth, Painting & Printmaking 48
William Connally, Photography & Film 50
Anne Schermerhorn, Photography & Film 52
Tim Rusterholz, Sculpture + Extended Media 55
Trevor Dawkins, Theatre 56
What do you wish someone had told you before you came to VCU? 58
What advice would you give to a new VCUarts Student? 60
Important VCUarts web sites and contact information 64
VCUarts is ranked the #1 public university arts & design program in the country (US News & World Report, 2009)
For specific department rankings information, visit www.vcu.edu/arts/overview/national_rankings
5
What made you decide to come to VCU?
It came down to a choice between VCU and another purely
arts school. In the end I decided I wanted to have the access
to classes, students, and activities that lay outside the arts.
I didn’t want to box myself up, and the broad spectrum of
opportunities around Richmond really appealed to me.
Ada Cooke, Art Foundation
I had heard so much about how excellent the art program was,
and I was really excited to experience it firsthand. Also, most
all other Virginia institutions are too secluded and the campus
environments seem to share a certain aesthetic that I don’t
really care for. The experience of being in a city during college
I think is an awesome thing and really helps you grow up a lot
faster than being secluded off in the middle of nowhere and
only being around college students.
Kirk Zamieroski, Kinetic Imaging
I heard about the new Cinema program and knew previously
about VCU’s reputation. I met with Dean Toscan and was really
impressed with everything, so I decided to come.
Ian Edwards, Cinema
6
When applying for college, I chose VCU because of its location
in an urban city relatively close to Washington, DC and the
reputation of the School of the Arts.
Linda J. Clark, Interior Design
VCU is the art education with the most bang for the buck. And
the only school that offers fashion design curriculum in Virginia.
Rachel Z. Walters, Fashion Design
VCU was a clear choice. A hugely impressive art school for the
cost of in-state tuition… pretty compelling.
Meg Roberts, Craft/Material Studies (Metal)
The encouraging vibe that I got when I came to audition at the
Singleton Center made an education at VCU really appealing to me.
Melanie Libbey, Music (Flute Performance Major)
Warm weather, nice people, supportive work environment,
cool little city.
Trevor Dawkins, Theatre
I knew that I wanted to move away from Tennessee and I
knew that I wanted to study art. It is rare that you find a huge
university with such a thriving art community, but that wasn’t
the only thing that brought me here. VCU has such a diverse
campus I think it attracts students who want a different type of
college experience. We truly are an international university. You
can learn Indian dances right here in the Student Commons if
you want to. That’s amazing.
Katherine Duckworth, Painting & Printmaking
It’s so great to be a part of this school as it reaches new heights
and gains recognition across the country. The teachers here
are fantastic, instilling their strong philosophies on the arts and
helping us develop our own beliefs on the subject. In addition,
my family is important to me. Since my triplet sisters are only
eight years old, it’s important that I am still a part of their lives.
I am so fortunate to have VCU in my backyard. Because my
home is only 15 minutes away, I can go home for a school play,
a weekend, or just for dinner. Coming to VCU from the local
area has also provided me with many opportunities in using
resources from friends and family but also showing others all
that Richmond has to offer.
Lauren O’Neill, Graphic Design
I made my final decision to come to VCU because of its
reputation as a leading art school in the nation, and the
opportunity to participate on a Division I track and field program.
Tim Rusterholz, Sculpture + Extended Media
Honestly, VCU was cheaper than the other schools and they
were so great at getting back to me fast. I was looking at VCU
and it had an art program that had interesting projects going on.
It is also relatively warm in winter.
Anne Schermerhorn, Film
I knew that I wanted to go to an art school and VCU was the
best option. It was in state, close to home (not too close), and
had a great reputation. It was a no-brainer.
Aaron Burr Johnson, Dance and Choreography
I was very impressed with the good reputation that VCU School
of the Arts has and that made me decide to enroll and study here.
Nedim Sudic, Fashion Design
The School of Art’s reputation is amazing, and I felt that my art
education here would trump that of the other schools on my
list, in addition to my desire to attend a school in the inner city.
Allison Frew, Art History
I came to VCU because I heard great things about the School of
the Arts, and was impressed with the freedom given to the art
students.
William Connally, Photography
7
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
I’m constantly in awe of the work produced by my fellow
students. The students in VCUarts are very gifted, and I love
being surrounded by such talent. It’s both humbling and
inspiring.
Ada Cooke, Art Foundation
I have been abroad in Australia, working on a film. I am just
now appreciating how high VCU holds its standards and how
much it expects from its students. I feel like the world would
be a better place if everyone could do the same. It lets you feel
like an artist and not hide behind the title of a student artist
(after you get out of Art Foundation of course).
Anne Schermerhorn, Film
8
The teachers at VCU continue to impress me. They come
from all sorts of backgrounds with different philosophies and
experiences. They are inspiring, motivating, and encouraging,
bringing insight and opportunity to students while fostering
curiosity in a dedicated learning environment.
Lauren O’Neill, Graphic Design
I am really impressed by all of the equipment and facilities we
have access to, not only just in VCUarts, but throughout the
whole university. VCU is like a little city. Everything I need is
right here in the Fine Arts building or the library.
Melanie Libbey, Music (Flute Performance Major)
What has impressed me most about my VCUarts experience
is the Sculpture department’s ability to allow each student to
work towards a variety of individual goals. There is a large range
of work being made in many different mediums and I admire
my instructors for being able to balance everybody’s needs
and develop everybody individually. The work environment and
meshing of styles and work habits is impressive.
Tim Rusterholz, Sculpture + Extended Media
My professors have made the largest and best impression
upon me. Nothing is more exciting than attending a class where
the professor is not only interesting, but completely dedicated
to their work. Classes are typically very exciting and informative
and I honestly cannot get enough of it. If I don’t have class to go
to, I get really bored.
Allison Frew, Art History
I think several elements work in tandem to make VCUarts
impressive. The faculty and the facilities are precisely as they
should be and as we students need them to be. The Richmond
scene is particularly suited to art making. One can wander,
explore, take photos, and find inspiration in a number of places
about town. The Richmond art scene, including the plethora of
galleries from which to choose, and the proximity of the Virginia
Museum of Fine Arts are conducive to learning about art. Also,
the peer group is astonishingly talented.
Rachel Z. Walters, Fashion Design
The overwhelming power of the artist community here in
Richmond has impressed me most. I’ve never experienced a
place that is so open to the arts and so interested. Especially
in spring semester, it seems as though there is a new visiting
artist or performance happening daily, and there’s never a day
left where you can’t experience one art form or another. I feel
that that the more art you experience, the better artist you’ll
become, and I’m extremely impressed with VCUarts’ very
apparent understanding of this.
Linda J. Clark, Interior Design
I think I have been most impressed by the active careers of
my professors! They not only teach all week, but also have
incredible work of their own that they exhibit all over the world!
When you see that your very own professor is succeeding
in the art community, it provides motivation and cultivates a
certain level of respect.
Meg Roberts, Craft/Material Studies (Metal)
I think that the other students have most impressed me here
at VCU. The creativity and skill level of those around me is
astounding. In my classes, and when I am able to see student
art exhibits, I am so inspired by the progress of my peers.
Lauren Leigh Hall, Art Education
I have been very impressed with the guest artists that VCU
brings to Richmond. While I have been a student, the dance
department has had numerous guest performers and teachers
come from out of state and even abroad. These residencies
enable the students to get an outside perspective on their work,
both technically and choreographically. It helps us see how
things are going to be in the “real world.” Equally informative
are the performances that these guests provide. I’ve had
the chance to see Battleworks Dance Company, The Urban
Bush Women, Monica Bill Barnes, Tania Isaac Dance, Miguel
Gutierrez and the Powerful People, to name a few. As far as
I know, VCU is what brings contemporary dance artists to
Richmond. This is impressive.
Aaron Burr Johnson, Dance and Choreography
9
Art Foundation student from Maryland
Ada Cooke
10
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Since coming to VCU, I’ve been exposed to many different
styles and types of art – of my peers and of contemporary
artists introduced to me by my teachers – and I feel that this has
had a strong influence on my own work. And I definitely work
faster and with more certainty! I feel much more confident
about my art.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
I thought that going through Art Foundation was going to be
really hard, and, well, it was, but I had a lot more fun than I
thought I would. The atmosphere is really open and relaxing.
It’s hard not to enjoy it.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Tin Salamunic, the instructor for my Project: Communication
Arts class really impressed me. He has a ridiculously high
work ethic that he was always trying to press onto us. It was
daunting, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating. I came
out of that class with a lot of pieces I liked. And from what he
showed us, he has a great body of work, and seems to be really
successful for someone who just graduated. The class drove
me crazy, but once it was over I was really glad for it.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I’m absolutely fascinated by foreign cultures and languages.
In high school I travelled to Japan as part of a student exchange,
and now I’m hoping to spend a summer studying abroad in
Italy. I love European history and can’t wait to see some of it
firsthand. I’m not very proficient in any other languages, but
I’ve dabbled in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Japanese.
Obviously I hope to expand my repertoire to Italian.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
For most of my life I’ve been the shy, hesitant one, but since
coming to college I’ve realized that I shouldn’t worry about
what other people think. You need to grab life by the ears –
take hold of all opportunities thrown your way – speak up –
go out and experience things to their fullest. I often wonder
how things would be if I’d always been this spunky person.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
The trip my Art Worlds class took to NYC was probably the
most memorable part of my freshman year. It was a hectic
marathon of trying to see as much art as possible in such a
short time. I wish we could’ve lingered longer, but it was really
fun and I absolutely loved it.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
It’s really hard to say… I enjoyed most of my Drawing
Studio, especially doing figure drawing, and I also really liked
many of my projects in Surface Research and my Project:
Communication Arts class. I can’t pinpoint it to any exact piece!
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I definitely want to study abroad, particularly in Italy. Once you
have a full-time job, it can be really hard to find the time and
the ability to travel like that. I want to see as much of the world
as I can while I still have the time, and study abroad programs
are the perfect chance for that. I’m also really hoping to fulfill a
global studies minor.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I have no idea, I’m still trying to figure out what I want to do right
now! I’m not absolutely set on anything at the moment, just
seeing what opportunities rise and where the road takes me.
ART FOUNDATION PROGRAM | vcu.edu/arts/artfoundation/dept | 804.828.1129
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Lauren Leigh HallArt Education major/Religious Studies minor, from Virginia
12
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
I’ve learned about types of media that I previously had no
experience in. Specifically, I have learned a lot about making
more sculptural art and I have the skills now to make 3-D forms
out of wood, metal, fiber, or other things. I am now also able to
make digital designs using Photoshop or Illustrator programs.
My abilities have progressed far beyond the basics of drawing,
painting, and collage.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
When I came to VCU my first intention was to apply for
Communication Arts because I was very confident with
drawing and designing. Once I began to study here and
explored other options, I was very impressed by the other
fields of art. I was even tempted to become a craft major
because of the excellent classes I saw being offered there.
Ultimately, I went into Art Education because of my love for
both art and young people. Conveniently, the Art Ed program
has allowed me to take basic classes in most arts disciplines.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
I have had Dr. Burton from the Art Ed department for three
semesters and I am very grateful to him for his insightful
instruction and dedication to forming competent art educators.
Who I am becoming as a teacher has a lot to do with the
instruction I have received from Dr. Burton.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
My greatest interests are my study of Art Education and
expanding my own art knowledge, my friends and family, and
most of all learning about and getting to know God. I have other
hobbies and interests such as playing guitar, biking, Scrabble,
and being outdoors, but these all revolve around my main three:
God, people, and art.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I don’t believe that I realized when I was younger that I had
the right to take charge and make a difference in the world.
At that time I was still waiting for adults and leaders to set up
opportunities so that I could take part in them. It never occurred
to me at that time that I could be the catalyst for change and that
I could influence the world in a positive, extravagant way.
What made you decide to come to VCU?
I was enamored with the idea of being in the Arts program at
VCU. Also, my sister was in the Graphic Design department at
the time and it felt safe to follow in her shoes.
What do you wish someone had told you before you came to VCU?
Start saving up your money now.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
I formed a textile sculpture that I called a “prayer web” in the
window of a Christian fellowship house on campus. The web
was made of many pieces of fabric with individual prayers
written on each one sewn together and attached to the window
space using strings. The intention behind the piece was to
engage students in prayer as a community and it was meant to
illustrate how prayer transforms things. So just as the physical
pieces of fabric changed the appearance of the windows and
covered the space with colored light, so also were the prayers of
the students affecting those around them and making change.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I simply want to make the most of the time that I have here. I just
want to be aware of every opportunity and live each one fully.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I do know that it will involve art and kids and it will be done with
the intent to share God’s love with others.
Art Education – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/arteducation/dept | 804.828.7154
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Allison FrewArt History major/German, History and Anthropology minor,from Virginia
14
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Since I have started my college career, any progression in my work
I attribute to my researching skills. I have developed a supreme
tolerance to spending countless number of hours pouring over
books and jotting notes about interesting and somewhat relevant
information, whilst combining these two processes to create
something coherent, interesting and informative. I believe this
has improved greatly.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
I thought college was suppose to be very difficult and it turns
out that if you just pay attention in class and do your readings
then everything falls neatly into your lap. Most of the time
I feel like college is a walk in the park, and others I feel a bit
overwhelmed. The key to college, and I suppose the rest of
my life, will be time management.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
When I took Painting 205, my instructor, Calvin Burton,
critiqued in a nonjudgmental way. Every day we would present
our paintings and critique them. It was a fabulous exercise and
I really looked forward to talking about art and just brushing
up on sincere and constructive communication. It was one
of the greatest challenges of my life but it was also the most
rewarding one I’ve had in college.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Dr. Michael Schreffler has been my advisor since I was a
freshman and no matter how often I doubt myself he has
always reassures me that I have the ability to do whatever
I wish, which is probably a boost of self-confidence that
anyone could use when battling the insecurities tied with
undergraduate work. Several other professors have helped
me realize my potential, such as Dr. Charles Brownell who has
inspired me to perform and learn at only the hardest levels.
Dr. Peggy Lindauer has encouraged me to open my eyes and
be critical of all experiences. Calvin Burton, a former graduate
student in painting, was my painting instructor and not only
did he encourage me to be confident in my opinion, but also to
embrace the world of art history with an eye that can denote
method, skill, and perseverance.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
If I wasn’t going into art history I’d go into financial banking and
money management. Few things are more exciting to me than
talking about investing and IRAs. If I had realized sooner, I would
definitely have saved my money from high school and invested
that wisely, and I would probably not be so poor today.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I am very into traveling, photography, painting, art museums,
and TED.com
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
Right now I fear that I do not know enough to proceed to graduate
school; I wish to reach a level in my learning where I feel confident
with any situation that comes my way. I want to understand the
wide scope of art history, from start to finish. Until then, I think I’ll
be here.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
I am on the fence between museum studies or becoming a
professor. I am having difficulty selecting an area of art to put
all my time and devotion into, so until then, I’ll be in school.
Art History – BA | vcu.edu/arts/arthistory/dept | 804.828.2784
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Cinema major/Religious Studies (second major),from Tennessee
Ian Edwards
16
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
My work has become much more mature since coming to
VCU. I now have a greater understanding of the cinematic
language and the body of work that came before me and have
a basis to make much more interesting art that takes into
consideration and manipulates what has already been done
to create an entirely new image. Aside from that, I have also
learned to better work with a team. Making movies is difficult
work, which could not be completed without the work of an
entire crew. I used to feel that filmmaking was a very private,
personal experience, but in the context of making narrative
pieces, I have learned that it is a very group oriented task.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
There are many people at VCUarts (faculty and students alike)
who are doing very important, timely work and are very excited
about it.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
I was afraid that my first couple of years of film school
would simply be a rehashing of what I had already learned
about film from my high school filmmaking and film studies
course. It turned out that this was not the case and that I was
immediately able to enrich what I had already learned.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Rob Tregenza has been an incredible inspiration to me. His
career has pretty much followed what I ideally want to do with
my life.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would have never seen Titanic. Or Pearl Harbor.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I read a lot, but there’s no particular theme. Right now I’m trying
to digest Thomas Pynchon, which may take the better part of
the summer. Lately I’ve been trying to learn the art of being a
home bicycle mechanic and I’ve been watching a lot of Seinfeld.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
I would have to say the latest production we did is my favorite
memory. We shot a film in 35mm with students from La Fémis
and their instructors Pierre-William Glenn and Jean-Jacques
Bouhon.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
I shot a film called “With a Capital C” for a friend and fellow
student named Michael Leonberger. It was a runner-up at the
recent Student Film Festival and I feel it was my best work so far.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I would like to be director of photography for a feature-
length film.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I hope to become a director of photography. I plan to go on to
graduate school and eventually (hopefully) earn a Ph.D. and
teach others about the art of cinema.
Cinema Program – BA | vcu.edu/arts/cinema/dept | 804.828.7919
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Cara FryeCommunication Arts major from Virginia
18
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
When I revisit work from the beginning of my freshman year
and compare it to the work that I make now, I not only see
an improvement in skill but an improvement in conceptual
understanding. As a freshman I found that being creative was
the most difficult aspect of being an artist. I grew up in a small
town where being artistic was not emphasized and suddenly at
VCU I find myself as part of a creative community. This change
in environment has been the reason for any improvement of
my work.
What made you decide to come to VCU?
VCU has the best art program around. I never felt the need to
travel out of the state to find another school when there was
a great one right here. It was just the right amount of change
that I needed. I knew it would challenge me yet I still felt
comfortable and safe in Richmond.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
Instructors in the Communication Arts department truly
impress me every day. It is such a great opportunity to not
only have professional artists teach you but to have them be
completely honest with you about your work. It took my first
year in the department to realize how important critiques are.
The instructors are sincere and do not tend to sugarcoat a
critique for the sake of hurt feelings. Being critiqued will always
be an aspect of what I do. The amount of time that the faculty
take to prepare students for this truly impresses me. It is part of
the VCUarts experience that I appreciate the most.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
I was initially intimidated. I worried that I would feel that I
needed to constantly compete with peers. I grew up a big
fish in a very small pond and suddenly I was surrounded by
people who were far more talented than me. Now I experience
a feeling of community. The number of students in our
department is relatively small and because of this you become
close to your peers and teachers. I feel very comfortable
now sharing opinions with them. I am no longer intimidated
about being a student along side of very talented people. It is
important to have others that will challenge you. It is the only
way to improve.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Jorge Benitez, assistant professor in Communication Arts,
has been an inspiration to me. His classes have awakened me
and taught me how to speak out rather than shy away as I had
previously tended to do. Also, he has made me realize that as
an artist it is very important to know about the world around me
and pay close attention to what is going on outside of my own
personal life.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
Nature, Biology. My favorite thing to do in high school was hike
to Connely’s Run, a local creek, and collect data from the small,
delicate ecosystem. I participated in a Save Our Streams program
where a couple days a week we would monitor activity in the
ecosystem by measuring water pH levels, types of insects, fish
and so on. Maybe one day I will combine the two and illustrate a
wildlife book to document species of insects and plants.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
The best memory by far is winning the Dean’s Scholarship
Award. I was very surprised when I was notified. I called
everyone in my family twice. Realizing that I – and my work –
are noticed by other people is a great feeling.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
My favorite project as a student was an assignment I received
during the fall of my junior year in a painting class taught by
Sterling Hundley. We were able to generate one-on-one ideas
with him the way that an illustrator might with an art director.
It was great coming up with an idea as a team. Sometimes it
is almost impossible to generate a really great concept alone.
Continued…
Communication Arts – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/communicationarts/dept | 804.828.3658
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I learned that working with another mind can be a great thing!
Maybe my painting in the end technically was not the best, but
it is one of the few that I really feel satisfied with due to a solid,
creative and effective concept.
What do you wish someone had told you before you came to VCU?
I would not change my knowledge of what to expect about
attending VCU if I could go back to summer before my
freshman year. I really enjoyed the process of figuring things
out on my own. VCU and Richmond are the perfect place to
start a new life away from your family. Growing up here over
the past three years has made me a much more confident and
independent person.
What advice would you give to a new VCUarts student?
I would tell them to never let yourself become discouraged.
There are so many different personalities at this school. It was
intimidating to me when I first got here to be around so many
outgoing and talented students. I graduated from high school
with friends that I attended kindergarten classes with. VCU
was a huge change for me. But, now I have found a great new
group of friends that are artists too. I was never able to have
this before. There is always someone to help you with projects,
idea generation, etc. It is very important to not separate
yourself as an art student. I would tell any VCUarts student to
go out and be part of the Richmond art community, see what is
going on and participate.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
My goal for my senior year is to get a head start with my career.
I don’t want to have to figure things out the months after I
graduate. I hope to have some type of path established ahead
of time. I hear from other people how important it is to get your
name out there, and to be recognized. I wish that I had listened
more carefully before and really started working towards this
earlier. I have been able to coast along with work my whole life.
Now the gears are going to have to shift, but I am really excited
and looking forward to change.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
There are many things that I would love to do after I graduate.
I am constantly changing my mind about what I want to be. I
think that this is a good way to be though, I think that my career
will always be in constant motion and evolving with one thing
leading to another. I would love to be an art director, freelance
artist, teacher, or just continue on to graduate school. As long as
I am working with other people and always given the opportunity
to solve visual problems, I will be very happy.
Cara Frye interview continued
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Meg J. Roberts Craft/Material Studies major concentrating in Metal,Art History minor, from Virginia
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
I feel like it’s impossible not to progress, especially within the
first year of Art Foundation. The rigorous schedule and high
expectations really force you to constantly think, create, and
push your ideas. Being a Craft major has also helped me refine
my work in a major way. A huge emphasis is put on the “craft”
of a piece, in addition to high expectations for concept and
thought process.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
My experience is definitely different from my original
expectation. This is mostly because I started Art Foundation
hoping to go into Graphic Design. I think this was just because
it was seen as the only “valid” way to pursue visual arts and
possibly find employment after college. This wasn’t necessarily
my belief, but more what others, pre-college, had me believe.
It was in Art Foundation that I realized that I hated computers
and was much more interested in three-dimensional work that I
could physically interact with. So I feel like my original choice of
Graphic Design and what I ultimately pursued, Craft, are sort of
opposite ends of the spectrum. (Both valid! Just different.)
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
I am reluctant to say this, but my first studio professor in Art
Foundation was particularly influential. At the time I found him
abrasive and rude. However, his harsh attitude really made me
push myself beyond what I thought I was capable of. His words
still run through my head sometimes when I am working! I
guess the most valuable thing I got from him was the ability
to be more critical of my work and ideas, which has ultimately
made me better at what I do.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I love to play sports and compete! I play on a few volleyball
teams at Richmond Volleyball Club. I have also been sailing
ever since I can remember. Every summer my dad and I race
a small boat on the Chesapeake Bay. I am also a huge fan of
eating food.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
I think my favorite project is one much bigger than myself. I
had the opportunity to participate in a program called “Radical
Jewelry Makeover.” This program basically raised awareness
about the issues surrounding the metal mining industries,
including devastating social and environmental damage.
This was accomplished through a community project which
involved jewelry donations from the Richmond area. These
donations (everything from Mardi Gras beads to diamond
wedding rings) were transformed and reworked into new,
more desirable pieces. It was really exciting to work in the
metal studio with everyone at all hours of the night, creating
work for a cause.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
My goal is to leave VCU with a body of work and a thread of
ideas that will compel me to continue to create work in “real
life.” I hope to have a little bit of fun between now and then too.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
My favorite memories all involve my
freshman suite mate, Ashley. I think my
ultimate favorite is when she came to
my class wearing the prosthetic butt
made especially for her. She worked it.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I kind of want to continue going to school. I hope to go to
graduate school, or even pursue another degree somewhere
else. I don’t really know what kind of “work” I will do. I feel like
I should just pursue what I want and the rest will fall into place.
Craft/Material Studies – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/craft/dept | 804.828.1477
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Aaron Burr JohnsonDance & Choreography major/Marketing minor, from Virginia
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
I came to VCU Dance with the intention of developing
choreographic skills because I thought it was too late for me to
become a “dancer.” By that I mean a professional with whom
choreographers ask to work, not someone who dances as a
hobby. Aside from being asked to dance by student, faculty,
and guest choreographers, there are certain days where I can
just feel my bones, muscles, and brain making connections
to one another. When it happens, you can hardly believe what
your body is actually doing. It’s definitely a gradual process,
though. Some days you’ll do something and then remember,
“I couldn’t do this a month ago!”
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
Coming out of high school, I thought that I was going to be
either a biologist or an orthodontist. I decided to come to VCU
as a dance major because I wasn’t particularly passionate
about biology or orthodontics and I was really enjoying the
extra-curricular dance classes that I was taking. In retrospect, I
really had no idea what I was getting myself into. Absolutely no
idea. It was a risky decision but a perfect fit.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Dr. James Frazier. I have had him as a professor for Ballet
History, Modern Dance History, and African American
Presence in American Dance, Performance, and Social
Contexts. The information that I have taken from his classes
has found its way into my views about choreography,
technique, art and the importance of dance in everyday life.
He really makes his students question the art form and the way
in which its history has been recorded and taught.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I’ve always loved gardening and watching things grow. I
probably developed this love as a kid when my mother watched
me as she gardened. I would collect bugs and put them in
jars that I had fashioned as terrariums. Now I just have potted
plants and a fish tank. I also love preparing food. I was given
a juicer recently and have been juicing everything in sight. I’d
juice my own hand if it wasn’t attached to my body. Dogs are
very important, too. My family has a beagle named Betsy that
I miss very much. Luckily, there is a small park outside of the
dance building. People bring their dogs to the park and I’m not
shy about scratching behind a few puppy ears.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
At one point, I was a Boy Scout. I dropped out as a Life Scout,
one rank away from the illustrious Eagle Scout rank. I’m
not heartbroken about it, but I think it would be funny to be
known as the modern dancer who is also an Eagle Scout.
Nevertheless, I still carry around my Swiss army knife and am
a good source for outdoorsy information. I know my knots and
first aid.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
There was one afternoon when some religious fanatic was on
campus spewing his agenda at students outside the dining hall
and the library. He accumulated a crowd of heated students
that were arguing with him. Three other dance students and I
took the opportunity to perform an improvised dance on this
“stage” that he had set up. After a while, some people in the
crowd began to notice and started watching us instead of the
evangelist. Some strangers even joined in and others gave
compliments. It was like we were breaking up a fight that had
no purpose.
Dance and Choreography – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/dance/dept | 804.828.1711
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What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
This past spring, I served on the Student Concert Committee.
This was the first fully produced dance concert at VCU that
featured work created, performed and selected solely by the
student body. The committee did everything that the faculty
normally does in preparation for a dance concert. This included
organizing the adjudication process, designing a poster,
publicizing the show, making sure the choreographers and
dancers knew their obligations. We did have a lot of guidance
from the faculty but were told that if something didn’t get done,
they wouldn’t cover for us. The whole process was meant
to be a preparation for our Senior Project Concert, which is
the culmination of our work in VCU Dance. Two dances that I
worked on were also chosen by the adjudication committee to
be presented in the concert.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I’ve had this idea for a while of getting a group of art students
together that presents improvisational performances around
campus. I’d love to finally get it organized this upcoming year.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
My post-graduation plans change by the minute. As of now,
I plan on continuing my dance training in New York City at
the Merce Cunningham School. In New York I hope to dance
for choreographers whose work I find to be stimulating both
mentally and kinesthetically. I also will be presenting my own
work in some capacity.
Aaron Burr Johnson interview continued
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Fashion Design major (“my one and only love”) from Bosnia and Herzegovina; relocated to Richmond in 2004
Nedim Sudic
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Major progression that I have made was the construction of the
actual garments. Before I started in the fashion program at VCU
my work has always been stronger on paper than in cloth. Fine
art was one of my father’s passions and he used paint mostly
in oil and oil pastels, so I grew up around paint, art books and
art galleries and I could draw before I could walk. Even though I
had a lifelong fascination with fashion, my ideas about creating
it have been much different than they are now. I can call myself
a fashion designer now.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
I was very impressed with the students, especially the fine art
students. The strength and passion with which these people
work is very inspiring.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
In all the classes that I have taken, not just in the fashion
department, but also general education classes, I had really
great experiences with all the professors.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Professor Linda Lee is my great inspiration. Her passion for
students and knowledge about all things fashion is just great.
She is constantly pushing us to develop as great designers, and
she always has a great word of advice whether it’s related to
fashion or just life in general. I could not be happier to have her
as one of my professors.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I hate to admit it but not much, really. I do like to visit museums
in Richmond and DC from time to time, but aside from that, all
my interests are in fashion. I breathe it, sleep it, dream it, eat it,
it’s what I live for.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would not change anything. Sometimes I think about some
events in my life that I would rather forget, but ultimately these
experiences and events have brought me here and made me
what I am today. I always try to look forward rather than back.
What is your favorite memory (memories) so far at VCU?
One of my favorite memories has to be one night right before
our garments were due for jury and a whole group of us had
been in the studio for two straight days and at some point we
just all started performing Mad TV skits and laughing to tears.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a
student?
I think it was a dress I made in Art Foundation. It was a
self-assigned project and I made this dress out of paper,
plastic, wood and metal and it was even wearable because I
remember having one of the girls try it on for me.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
A lot of things actually, but I’m starting to realize how time
constrained I am. I would definitely like to create a great
collection, organize a great senior fashion show, and leave the
rising seniors inspired to organize an even better fashion show
the following year.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
Ideally I would like to start working for a company small
enough where I can learn all the ins and outs of the fashion
industry and then eventually start my own label. Tomorrow.
Fashion Design and Merchandising – BFA and BA | vcu.edu/arts/fashion/dept | 804.828.1699
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Rachel Z. WaltersFashion Design major/Art History minor, from Virginia
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Before I came to VCU I had a somewhat narrow view of art. I
wasn’t well read on many current working artists. Having to
research and write about contemporary art practices opened
my mind to the possibility of combining media to create
something new. I learned that I could combine my love for
storytelling, painting and clothing design by making sets with
puppets and then documenting my tableaus with photography
or video; art forms that I hadn’t explored before coming to VCU.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
When I was told that Art Foundation would consist of four core
studio classes, I thought that within each area of study, class
time would consist of specific technique training. For instance,
I expected to be taught to paint in Surface Research. I was
surprised that we were mostly assigned projects and left to do
whatever we could with what we already knew. If we wanted
specific instruction, we were expected to ask for it. Things
were a little different in Space Research, where we were
shown techniques for wood working, for which I was grateful.
It probably just boils down to which teacher you get.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Matt King seems to be the most thoughtful, talented, and
organized teacher. He has a knack for explaining projects and
techniques, giving lectures and running critiques. I was inspired
to work at the top of my game for his class because I respect
his art and his teaching method.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I find musical theater riveting. It combines so many fields of
art and design which fascinate me - writing, composing, set
design, costume design, and performance. It’s a culmination of
many types of creative processes, and when done well, can be
really effective in captivating an audience.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
There are so many embarrassing things, so I’ll stick with
something simple: I would save all of my allowances,
Christmas, Hanukkah, and birthday money over the span of my
life and put it in a high interest bank account or CD for use now.
What are your favorite memories so far at VCU?
My favorite memories include staying up all night in the Art
Foundation building working on a project with my music blaring
down the hall. Also, seeing the student show at the Anderson
Gallery and realizing that my peer group is astounding and
picking up my portfolio and finding out I won the Dean’s Award.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
My favorite piece I’ve made was a nine foot wooden found-
object sculpture based on a character of my invention. It
was bright gold and covered with things I scavenged from
dumpsters (which wasn’t as gross as you think, they were
all on top). It was a commentary on both the ironic beauty of
superficial objects in everyday life and the true beauty of the
deeper meanings we associate with those things.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I want to show a collection of works in a gallery downtown. I
want to win more awards and scholarships. I want to maintain,
and maybe even amp up the level of energy with which I
attacked my freshman year. Most importantly, by the time I
graduate I want to be able to make a collection of clothing that
resembles wearable poetry or music.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
If I don’t chicken out, I want to move to New York and work in
the fashion industry until I have enough experience and capital
to open my own business as a clothing designer. If I ever have
time on the side, I will continue to paint and make my funny little
musical theater productions.
Fashion Design and Merchandising – BFA and BA | vcu.edu/arts/fashion/dept | 804.828.1699
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Fashion Merchandising major from Virginia
Whitney Ann Stevens
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
My work in and out of VCU has increasingly progressed in my
three years at VCU. I have built lifelong relationships, taken
on new challenges, and enjoyed what Richmond has to offer.
I have worked at least 20 hours a week in Carytown, for two
years at Annette Dean and now I’m at Can Can Brasserie. I
have stayed on track with my major and recently participated
in the annual VCU Fashion Show. I studied abroad in Florence,
Italy this past fall and traveled to other countries as well. This
summer I interned at Movie Star, a lingerie company, and Marc
Jacobs in New York.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
The communication has been excellent through e-mail and
personal contact. Additionally, all the events that circulate
throughout the Fan with the Anderson Gallery, First Fridays, etc.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
Nothing is how I plan or picture. Each year there are new
surprises.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Each faculty member in the fashion department has a
distinctive personality. Ms. Videtic is straightforward and
intimidatingly sharp. Ms. Caskey is off-beat in an intriguing way
and I listen to whatever she has to say. Ms. Guthrie is one of the
most put-together beings I’ve ever encountered.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I have always enjoyed tennis and being outdoors. More
importantly, I like to discover what is unknown to me and I am
very open to trying new things.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would probably like to pick up another major/minor even more
geared towards what I am interested in.
What are your favorite memories so far at VCU?
Gosh, I believe the memories I have at CanCan with cookouts,
going away parties, birthdays, etc. could last me a lifetime – but
I do remember the first time Tyler (my boyfriend of over a year)
winked at me.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
Digital Thread, the VCU Fashion Show was perhaps the best
project. At least I hope so.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I hope to work for a fashion-oriented company or a publication
that is forward-thinking and is in a positive environment.
Fashion Design and Merchandising – BFA and BA | vcu.edu/arts/fashion/dept | 804.828.1699
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Karla MickensGraphic Design major from North Carolina
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Education in general is supposed to expand the mind and be a
challenge. I will say my experience at VCU has been just that. I
think differently than before and I am using different methods
to solve problems in all of my classes.
What made you decide to come to VCU?
The one and only reason I came to VCU was for the art school.
Even after I decided to attend, I had no idea it was ranked.
When I toured the Art Foundation building I was definitely
sold. The studio space really attracted me. There was student
artwork on every wall.
What has impressed you most about VCU?
I am impressed with the openness and freedom. Being an art
major is pretty cool and rewarding. I can’t see myself doing
anything else. I am also impressed by the diversity within the
school. The different ethnicities at VCUarts add to the success
of the school. It is a great place to learn and build on your
individual strengths.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I came from a high school
that couldn’t care less about the arts. There were not that many
people into art so I was completely shocked when I stepped
foot into my first Art Foundation class. Students had pink, blue,
and orange hair. Some had large gauges in their ears. It was a
totally different atmosphere, but I loved it.
What do you wish someone told you before you came to VCU?
I thought I would have lots of money in my pocket because
I didn’t have to buy a lot of textbooks and clickers. That was
before I realized how much money I had to spend on art
supplies. My advice would be to save up early and always be
on the lookout for great deals on art supplies. Last year I came
across a store that was having 75% off all art supplies. You
better believe I stocked up.
What advice would you give to a new VCUarts student?
Being an art major is very time consuming. Work hard and be
diligent. It will all pay off in the long run. Oh yeah… don’t forget
to have lots of fun.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Many faculty members have helped me and given me tons
of great advice and help throughout my years at VCU. It’s
hard to acknowledge just one. So I will say the entire faculty
in the Graphic Design department and the MFA students.
My classmates have also been one of my main sources of
inspiration. I learn a great deal from them. They make me happy
and proud to be a Graphic Design major.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
It’s hard to think outside of graphic design when I eat, sleep,
and breathe it 24/7. One thing I do enjoy doing is traveling, but
since I’m a broke college student I just dream of the places I will
travel someday.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
If I could do go back and do anything, I would have played
basketball and practiced a lot more at it.
What are your favorite memories so far at VCU?
One of my fondest memories is when I won first place in the
AFO Student Show in 2006. That was one of the greatest days
of my life. I certainly didn’t expect to win. I was happy with just
having my work in the show, but winning that award was the
best way to end a year of hard work. It was the cherry on top.
One day I will never forget happened at the end of my
sophomore year. We were having portfolio reviews and we
had to set up our portfolio at a certain time during the day. It
Graphic Design – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/graphicdesign/dept | 804.828.1709
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was set in my mind that the portfolios were due that Tuesday
but as I was walking across campus I ran into a classmate
who told me portfolios were due that day. I quickly ran into
the Pollak building to find that they were in fact due, and there
was only 15 minutes left to set up portfolios. So I ran back to
my dorm and grabbed my portfolio, which thankfully I did the
night before. I got back, only to find the doors shut - no more
portfolios could be set up. I dropped my work on a bench
nearby. I had no idea what I was going to do. I immediately
thought I would be kicked out of the program and I would have
to go home and become a janitor. Nevertheless, Anne Graves,
the department administrative director, who works very hard
for the Graphic Design department, allowed me to set up my
portfolio. I can laugh about this now but on that particular day I
believe I cried at least five times.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
As an intern at Advanced Energy in Raleigh, NC one of my
projects was to strategize marketing techniques for sustainable
living and energy efficiency. It was awesome to be a part of this
move towards creating a world that is more productive with less
energy consumption.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I hope to work in a design firm for a few years and get some
valuable experience. Maybe after working for other people I will
have gained enough knowledge to open my own firm. I want
to be somewhere where my strengths can blossom and I can
learn something new every day. Hopefully I will do well enough
that VCU will ask me to come and be a guest lecturer. That
would be the day.
Karla Mickens interview continued
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Lauren O’NeillGraphic Design major/University & Art Honors, from Virginia
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How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Concept drives the idea and design. At VCUarts, I have found a
way to integrate my background in academics with my passion
for design. Because observation and research are so important
to finding inspiration and seeing the world in a creative way,
my background in analyzing data and literature has provided
me with the ability to develop strong conceptualization skills.
Discovering relationships and connections within the world is
the foundation of my love for art and design. In addition, I have
found a way to integrate my hobbies and interests into my field
of design, making my education and the work that I produce
personally gratifying. Through its encouraging teachers and
their challenging assignments, VCU has really allowed me to
explore and develop this passion.
The details make the design. Over my last three years, I
have really refined my craft with meticulous hand skills. By
also exploring media and developing a true understanding of
these materials, I have learned the most suitable elements for
particular projects.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
College is what you make it. There have been ample
opportunities for me to push myself continuously, achieving
things I would have never imagined. Participating in a number
of activities and being involved within the school has been
incredibly rewarding as well.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Jamie Mahoney has been truly inspirational. With a
background in art direction for one of the leading advertising
agencies in the country, she lends her knowledge and
experience to the classroom. Her real world assignments push
us into the community by collaborating with others, including
exceptional opportunities to work with real clients. Likewise,
she plans many field trips and workshops to bring students
and professionals in the industry together. She is extremely
concerned with each student’s growth and potential,
expecting students to go above and beyond while providing
critical feedback. Her knowledge of the history of graphic
design is also incredibly valuable. As my Letterpress and
History of Visual Communication teacher (in addition to leading
a number of my favorite classes), Jamie delves into the history
and early practices of graphic design, encouraging students
to learn from the past while incorporating new perspectives
through exploration and play. Jamie’s passion and dedication
to graphic design are contagious, spreading excitement,
knowledge, and experience to her students.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
Time spent outside my discipline is incredibly valuable to my
work. In my free time I enjoy baking and cooking. Growing
up in the kitchen (my dad has a culinary background and
my grandmother has a love of baking) I have learned the
importance of sharing a good meal with the ones you love.
We love to celebrate holidays and special occasions with
memorable dinner parties. Birthdays and celebrations are
complete with delicious home cooked meals, handmade
invitations and decorations, and lovely arrangements.
Growing up, I was also absorbed in shows, magazines, and
books about culture, home, and garden. I love HGTV, Food
Network, Discovery, Fine Living Network, TLC, Martha Stewart,
Project Runway, or Top Chef…anything! Dancing, sailing,
traveling, reading, and photography have also provided me with
insight into culture, as well as inspiration. The great thing about a
field in the arts is that inspiration can come from everything, so
being observant, learning about your surroundings, and taking it
all in are all incredibly valuable exercises.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would love to spend more time with my family and friends. If I
could go back, I would be more involved in my sister’s activities
and be there for all the family functions and outings.
Graphic Design – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/graphicdesign/dept | 804.828.1709
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What is your favorite memory (memories) so far at VCU?
Favorite memories, there are too many to count! Because
schoolwork is often very involved within the School of the
Arts, classmates turn to close friends, sharing the stress and
celebration of projects. With such a passion for art and design,
my friends and I take every opportunity to delve deeper into
our field, taking trips to see lectures, watch films, tour design
firms, meet with other designers, and get involved. I cherish
all these experiences as they have truly made my college life
memorable, and incredibly rewarding.
Trekking to New York City with two close friends, we spent
three glorious days touring art museums and galleries,
immersing ourselves in the culture and offerings of the big
city. We’ve turned it into an annual affair, and I can’t wait to go
back this year!
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
So many of the projects are reflective pieces that provide
insight into ourselves. By learning about yourself, you are
able to produce quality work that you are passionate about.
Likewise, knowing who you are as a creator is incredibly
important in collaborating with others, therefore everyone’s
styles and best qualities are represented.
In getting more involved with the community, I have really
enjoyed collaborating with others. In Jamie Mahoney’s
Letterpress class, we teamed up with poets in our community
and from across the country to produce a beautiful, handmade
book. Each student created a spread to illustrate the poem
using traditional means of production—wood and metal type.
The process of putting the book together was informative and
eye-opening to the roots of graphic design and bookmaking.
Also, it was rewarding for both students and poets to have a
published piece.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
Being involved within the school has opened many doors,
providing tons of areas of exploration. Being engaged in the
Student Government Association, VCUarts Student Advisory
Task Force, and a number of other activities, I have been
heavily involved in the VCU Green campaign to make our
campus more environmentally friendly. In doing so, I’ve loved
seeing the change around VCU and in our community. Before
I graduate, I am hoping to get more by bringing Richmond and
VCU closer through creative endeavors. There are a number of
projects I want to head up including a community garden and
perhaps a resource center for student and area designers.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
Pursuing an education in the arts is really about learning how to
solve problems effectively. VCUarts has really prepared me to
tackle any task and provide a creative and appropriate solution.
I look forward to digging my hands into a number of design
fields, bouncing between graphic and perhaps interior design
(and maybe even fashion design). To me, design is about
fostering all sorts of relationships—between elements within
a work, or among members of the community. Design is all
around us, we live our lives in it. So, by creating pieces that
provide innovation and a fresh perspective, I want to produce
meaningful and thoughtful work. I want to affect people’s lives.
I hope to move to New York and immerse myself in the culture
and arts while working in publishing, perhaps for a magazine.
Maybe work for a firm for a little bit, then attend graduate
school to further explore my passion for design and return to
Richmond, perhaps to teach and raise a family.
I have a long list of career goals, dreams, and aspirations, but I
am eager to see where life takes me!
Lauren O’Neill interview continued
40
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Linda J. ClarkInterior Design major/Business minor, from Washington, DC
42
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
My work has progressed to a more reflective and
sophisticated level of analysis and completion. My work is
stronger because it has more of a foundation supported by in-
depth research applicable to my design solutions. In my design
process, my work addresses solving a problem by means of
creativity, innovation, and understanding the need for such a
change or improvement.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
What has most impressed me about my VCUarts experience is
its educational and cultural opportunities, diversity, foundation
courses and collaborative efforts among departments.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
There is ample attention given to students, where our growth
can be measured and creativity fostered on an individual basis.
The student-to-teacher ratio is lower than expected in such
a large university. There is no anonymity in my department
which allows me to receive the most suitable guidance and
attentiveness to grow and develop as an individual.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Ruth Baker-Westervelt and W. Kevin Wyllie, assistant
professors in Interior Design, are two faculty members that
inspire me. Their professional work is innovative, and as
teachers, they push me to think outside the box, always taking
it to the next level.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
My interests outside of my arts discipline include engineering,
technology, painting, music and aspirations of helping the
community.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
If I could go back and do something differently in my life, it
would be to live a healthier lifestyle.
What is your favorite memory (memories) so far at VCU?
My favorite memory so far at VCU has been my trip to Doha,
Qatar for the 2007 Tasmeem Design Conference. In the spring
of 2007, I was selected along with twelve other students,
to represent the School of the Arts from Richmond in an
international design charette and conference on sustainability
across design professions.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
My favorite project is the Gathering Booth and Café design
for the School of the Arts. This design project was developed
in my junior interior design studio. The project’s objectives
were to design a café that serves to brand the Pollak building
as the home for the School of the Arts. The design displays
students’ work from various departments, making them visible
to passersby on Harrison Street. ReFresh Café contains seating
for 32 patrons, serving light snacks, sandwiches, coffee and
fruit beverages. It is equipped to accommodate students and
today’s technology. Vibrant colors and materials energize the
community, and large panels of architectural glass define the
café’s limits while offering a visual connection between the
café’s interior and the surrounding environment. Commonly
used materials in this space include wood, stainless steel, glass,
plexi-glass, and cable systems for lighting and art displays.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
After graduation, I hope to work as an interior designer for a
large commercial architectural firm and possibly segue into
architecture.
Interior Design – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/interiordesign/dept | 804.828.1713
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Kirk ZamieroskiKinetic Imaging major from Virginia
44
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
My education here has been very beneficial to my ability to
understand and critique the art that I experience on a day-to-day
basis. When I first came to VCU, I hadn’t taken an art course
since the eighth grade, and frankly was very disconnected with
the art community. I was lacking in my understanding of art both
conceptually and aesthetically, but the VCU art program brought
a better light to those abilities, which are an essential in your own
creative processes as an artist. Now I’m very confident in my
opinion and not scared to voice it.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
When I first came to VCU, I had a pretty stationary path
planned as to what direction I was headed in art. Thanks to
the Art Foundation program, I learned so much about art that
it completely changed my perspective as to what I wanted to
become and what kind of art I wanted to create. I was hardly
prepared for what was in store for me freshman year, but in the
long run I think it was a wonderful enlightening experience and
something all art students should have to go through.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
All faculty members have inspired me in their own ways. One
thing that I has made my education so much deeper is that
the Kinetic Imaging faculty don’t present themselves to us as
teachers, but more so as peers–as fellow artists. I think this
type of relationship is essential in our educational experiences
as developing artists. Their involvement and engagement in
our art is what has really inspired me to work harder. It makes
me feel as though I’m working hard for not just myself, but for a
community of artists.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I aspire to become an animator, but along with that interest, I
want to pursue an education in media theory. I have also always
been very interested in musical composition and would like to
take time to study more music theory.
What is your favorite memory (memories) so far at VCU?
My favorite memory has to be arrival week freshman year. I
had no idea what to expect, and at first, I was honestly a little
scared. There was so much going on and everyone had such a
friendly attitude, I knew I chose the right place. I’ve never made
so many friends so quickly in my entire life.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would most definitely have pursued the arts more when I was in
high school. I felt as though I wasn’t able to make that career path
because I was always told it’s not “lucrative” enough. Now that
I’m in it I’m not worried about it at all and I’m really, really happy.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
There’s an animation that I am doing with my older brother who
graduated last year. I think it is a really awesome thing to first
be making art, and second to be making it with someone who
you’re very close to.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
Before I graduate, it is my goal to achieve a quality to my work
that seems professional. I am a very critical person, and to me,
it is very easy to judge what is student work and what isn’t.
Judging by how hard I’m working and the sincere help of all my
professors and peers, I think I can get to where I want to be.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
After I graduate, I really just want to make independent
animations with my brother. Hopefully I can manage to earn
some sort of grants to allow me to work strictly on my projects,
but if not, I wouldn’t mind working on cartoons for kids. I’ve
always had a strong interest in educational programming, and
I hope one day to impact the structure of animated content–
because as of recently, I’ve been disappointed in animated
series on television.
Kinetic Imaging – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/kineticimaging/dept | 804.828.7204
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Melanie LibbeyMusic (Flute Performance) major from Virginia
46
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
As far as my musicianship is concerned, I have improved
greatly in my stage performance. I can now get up in front of an
audience of over a hundred people, and perfom the way that I
intend to, regardless of nerves or shakes.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
The most impressive aspect of VCUarts, for me, is the fact
that everyone I have met throughout the school is interested
in me AND my well-being. Everyone has been extremely
encouraging and nuturing to me, and in my opinion, that’s a
priceless entity within a college environment.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
As a flutist, I am used to LOADS of competition and
competitive students who are shady in order to get higher up.
The flute studio at VCU is NOTHING like that. Again, they’re all
out to encourage each other and learn from each other.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
My flute professor has inspired me to practice and become the
best that I can be, because I’m meant to be a musician. She’s
made me into the musician that I am today.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I’m really interested in writing, and I’m probably the only geek
who’s actually looking forward to English 200.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would have gotten my driver’s license sooner and begun to
accept more responsiblity at an earlier age.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
I had a great time playing piccolo and flute for the VCU Opera’s
production of the Mikado [pictured above].
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
The Symphony Orchestra.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I want to pass an audition for a professional symphony
orchestra.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
I want to be a symphonic flutist/flute teacher for a living.
Music – BA and BM | vcu.edu/arts/music/dept | 804.828.1166
MU
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Painting and Printmaking major from Tennessee
Katherine Duckworth
48
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
Lately, I have been really excited about my work and enthusiasm
can only lead to progression. I think a lot of my progress comes
from just disciplining myself to go to the studio every day, or to
just work on something every day. You have to treat it like it’s
your job. I’ve learned how to really focus my energy into my
work. For instance, there was a time when I was really burnt out
on painting. I wanted nothing to do with it but I forced myself
to just tough it out and keep going. I think that struggle really
pushed into new levels of thinking about painting.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
I thought that the environment in the art department was going to
be extremely competitive but that is not how it is at all. It can be
competitive at times but not in a negative way. Your professors
and classmates are almost always willing to talk to you about
your work. Everyone is exchanging ideas with each other and it’s
great! The painting department is an extremely productive place.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
It is very difficult for me to choose one professor who has
particularly inspired me. Without Rob Tarbell I would not even
be in the painting department. Sally Bowring has been a huge
support for my work and me. Christine Gray taught me how
to paint, and Todd Cronan taught me how to think about art in
ways that I would have never imagined.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I really enjoy doing things outside. My dad introduced me to
hiking and scuba diving while I was visiting him. I don’t get to
do either very often but when I do it’s like a special treat.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I wish I had better discipline when I was younger. In high school
I didn’t draw or paint from life much. I guess when you are a
teenager you think your ideas are pretty great so you disregard a
lot of information that could be valuable. I just think about where
my work would be now if I had just worked a little harder and
it kind of irritates me. But, I have the rest of my life to perfect
technicalities so I don’t necessarily regret it. I just wish I would
have opened my mind to more information before college.
What are your favorite memories so far at VCU?
My favorite memories at VCU are just all over the place. The
important memories are friends, food, walking in the Fan,
sitting on roofs and late nights in the studio.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
I think my favorite project was a series of etchings I completed
in the fall. They were sort of a starting point for understanding
where my work was going. They were based off of maps,
but were manipulated throughout the printing process. I was
basically composing landforms and changing them to my
preferences. Imaginary landscapes.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I want to get a fair amount of traveling done before I graduate.
It always seems to help my work when I go to a new place for
awhile. Traveling really puts things into perspective. You learn a
lot about life by just immersing yourself into unfamiliar places. It
doesn’t have to be out of the country, or even out of the state. You
can find something amazing in the next town over I bet. There is so
much space on this earth that is full of whatever you’re looking for.
Painting and Printmaking – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/paintingprintmaking/dept | 804.828.1696
PA
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Photography major from New York
William Connally
50
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
I have noticed that my work has matured, and I have
concentrated more on the concept behind the piece.
The department stresses strong concepts as well as
interesting compositions.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
What has impressed me the most about VCUarts is the
opportunity to interact with and learn from the acclaimed
artists who we’ve studied in class.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
Initially, I did not expect the professors and grad students to be
so approachable and willing to help. It is wonderful to know that
they are always available to help discuss ideas and lend their
expertise.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
I have had several excellent professors, but I continue to work
with Vita Litvak, who taught me during my first year. The two
of us are in the Graduate School Mentorship Program together,
and meet each week to talk about current projects. She has
taken an interest in my artwork, and introduces me to other
artists working within the same vein.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
Outside of photography, I am interested in literature, film
history, and the mythologies of different cultures. I also enjoy
drawing and swimming.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
One of my favorite memories was when I was able to
assist three of my professors as they created a film on the
Chesapeake Bay. We camped out on an island and filmed with
35mm cameras. It was a terrific experience to see how an
independent feature is made.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
A project that I just completed is a series of tableaus that were
created to be reminiscent of film stills. Each image features
a group of spectators whose attention is directed toward an
event or object just out of frame.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I am looking to create a strong, cohesive body of work before
I graduate.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
After graduating, I hope to continue creating artwork, while
teaching at a university.
Photography and Film – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/photofilm/dept | 804.828.1695
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Anne SchermerhornFilm major from Virginia
52
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
My work has moved beyond simply making art as an outlet
and entertainment. Before, I was told to paint some branches.
I tried to find an ironic way to paint sticks, figuring the success
was in making a pretty and funny piece. Now I can find a
context and meaning behind why I do what I do, while still
having fun. It is easier to find what to show and what not to
show in work. Art is now a way I look and feel about the world,
the creation of it stems from my need to show and educate
others on my perspective. Selfish, I know.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
I always expected there to be clear lines between art and life
outside of art. There isn’t, you just have to change how you look
at things. Art is for people with the mentality that refuses to get
bored.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
There isn’t a faculty member, good or frustrating, who hasn’t
inspired some part of me to change for the better. That being
said, all faculty have definitely made me raise expectations of
myself. I am thankful for the ones that have figured out how to
do this in a positive way. There are some, like Todd Raviotta,
who truly convince you that they care, and are simply amazing
people to be taught by. You can stay after for hours talking with
him – it’s great. In his class, exploration dictates motivation and
that appeals to how I enjoy making art.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I started off with an idea that I would major in both art and
biology, because I wanted to be a herpetologist. But the reality
is I have never wanted a specific career and more importantly
I did not want to be bored. Film was the easiest way for me to
learn about whatever I choose while being able to reach a larger
audience than just those who spend time in galleries.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
I would have looked for summer internships, abroad programs,
and volunteer art projects right from the start. People love to
have others help them out. Programs and opportunities are
everywhere if you just have the energy to look for them.
What is your favorite memory so far at VCU?
I remember eating animal crackers with one of my friends on a
drive up to DC. I was looking for all the deformed ones and taking
pictures of them. I found some that looked like dinosaur orgies in
cookie form. I thought, “hey! if a t-rex and brontosaurus could get
along that well, there is hope for our future!”
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
My favorite projects change daily, I know there are a bunch
I want to go back and rework, but I just can’t bring myself to
look at them. I would have to say that a documentary I made
on my mother is my favorite. It was the first piece I made in
David Williams’ Documentary Class that I really felt showed
my personality as well as that of my mother. I also still really like
some of the painting/drawings I did in Art Foundation though.
I look back on that year and am glad I have the broad range of
work that came out of there - everything I did ended up being
important to me.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I want to get into some more festivals and work on more films.
Really, I feel as though I am getting too much sleep and it
unnerves me. Setting goals is good but I want the to flexibility
to just jump into different projects. I love getting involved with
everyone in the department to get different projects done.
I would love to intern on film sets. I am even entertaining the
idea of going abroad and teaching English in other countries
(Nepal). I really just want to go to Nepal and do something I can
make a documentary about. I can’t think of anything better than
to go abroad and help educate not only the kids there but also
the international public about the experience.
Photography and Film – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/photofilm/dept | 804.828.1695
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Tim RusterholzSculpture major/Art History minor, from Connecticut
54
How has your work progressed?
Prior to coming to VCU my experience in the arts was very
limited. During Art Foundation I found a new motivation for my
work and it continues to build in the Sculpture department. My
work is progressing as I gain more experience in the studio and
meet new instructors who help me understand how my work
functions in the world.
How is your experience at VCU different from how you thought it might be?
I had no prior expectation of majoring in Sculpture + Extended
Media. I didn’t know what to expect being part of an art school,
and I had assumed I would become a graphic designer or
something along those lines. Three years ago, I would have
never expected to be making the work I am right now.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
Many instructors have been crucial to my development at VCU.
Chris Norris influenced the progression of my work throughout
my freshman year while Michael McKean and Kendall Buster
continue to help me develop my work to the next level. Gregory
Volk’s class was beneficial to the improvement of my concepts
and also helped build my understanding of contemporary art.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
I am a member of the VCU Cross Country and Track &
Field teams. I compete as a middle distance runner and am
committed to these programs when I am not in the studio.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
If I had not chosen to pursue a career in the arts, I imagine I
would be doing something related to athletics. Currently, I
get to pursue a career in the arts, and still train and compete
competitively so I have a good balance of things I want to
accomplish in different areas.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
I don’t necessarily have a favorite or best project to which I’ve
contributed. With each piece I try to gain some new insight to
help develop my next project. Each piece gives me something to
build off of to create more advanced work.
What is your favorite memory (memories) so far at VCU?
Through VCU’s track and field team I have been able to meet
many people from all over the world. When I look back I will
appreciate the fact that I spent most of my time outside of class
with people from Kenya, Poland, France, Ecuador, etc. Many of
my close friends at VCU are from different continents and the
meshing of cultures made for some of my best memories.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I would like to develop my technical ability at modeling the
figure to a very advanced level. I believe that it is crucial to
my concepts that I master this element of my work. For the
upcoming cross country and track seasons, my main goal is to
make the finals of the 800 meter run at conference in my last
season before I graduate.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
After I graduate I would like to take up an apprenticeship abroad
to continue to develop my work. I have plans to attend graduate
school eventually.
Sculpture + Extended Media – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/sculpture/dept | 804.828.1511
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Theatre major from New York
Trevor Dawkins
56
How has your work progressed since coming to VCU?
I do indeed feel my work has progressed. I know I have become
a more competent and confident theatre practitioner through
my intensive training at Theatre VCU. I am more aware of my
weaknesses and strengths as an artist. Through my training I
now know that nothing worth having is free, and that you have
to sweat and bleed (yes, there has been blood) for the things you
really love. I feel confident with my understanding of elevated
text such as William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe. I
now have a collection of monologues, sonnets, and movement
pieces that I can use at any time for an audition. I have worked
and will continue to work on various dialects, some of which
I have nearly perfected. I have a much greater understanding
of various schools of philosophy in regard to theatre i.e.: the
writings of Anne Bogart, Peter Brook, Jerzy Grotowski, David
Mamet, Tina Landau and Michael Chekhov. I have a great wealth
of knowledge of the history of western theatre dating back to
early Greek Theatre. The list goes on and on.
What has impressed you most about your VCUarts experience?
The level of experience that our acting professors have,
and the knowledge they impart on us has impressed me.
I appreciate the personal training we receive and the close
relationships that form between me and my colleagues.
My class is like a small eccentric family.
How is your experience different from how you thought it might be?
A rigorous physical regimen is essential to actor training. I did
not expect to be doing so much physical training.
Is there a faculty member who has particularly inspired you? How so?
My junior acting professor has been a huge inspiration to me.
She has taught me to take pride in my acting process, and to
cover the ground I stand on.
If you could go back and do something differently in your life (not
necessarily arts related), what would it be?
Take more pictures. I hardly have any documentation of my
life, and I know there is so much I know I’m not going to
remember, and I don’t want to forget any of it.
What interests you outside of your arts discipline?
Films and multimedia are extremely influential in my work.
What is your favorite memory (memories) so far at VCU?
Performing as the titular role in William Shakespeare’s
Titus Andronicus. The play was conceived, rehearsed and
performed solely by students with no help from the faculty.
Under the direction of Cooper Forsman, a fellow student, the
cast devised an extremely experimental staging of the play.
It was very well received by the student body and the faculty
members.
What is your favorite or best project that you’ve contributed to as a student?
During the spring semester I directed the play Red Light Winter
by Adam Rapp, a production that I am very proud of.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I want to direct one more show that I am currently writing, as
well as perform in at least two or three more productions.
What do you hope to do (work-wise) after you graduate?
Devise dramatic theatre with the very talented people I have
met and worked with throughout my years at VCU.
Theatre – BFA | vcu.edu/arts/theatre/dept | 804.828.1514
TH
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What do you wish someone had told you before you came to VCU?
I wish someone had told me how much work being an art
student is. I’m not exactly sure, but there seems to be a
misconception that being an art student is relaxed and a
breeze. I find myself busy all day every day, with several
projects going on at once. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not
overwhelming; I have plenty of time to myself when I need it,
but I am in working on most nights when my friends are out
and about having fun. Even though I’m not out as much as
I used to be, I’m still having a blast making art. It never gets
boring, and it’s all I want to do.
Kirk Zamieroski, Kinetic Imaging
I wish someone had told me that it is okay to feel awkward and
have no idea what you want. Oh, wait… people did say that to
me. That, and don’t buy books until you know you need them.
Anne Schermerhorn, Film
I wish that I had researched the school’s other departments,
so that I could have considered taking on a minor earlier on.
William Connally, Photography
58
Everyone has this fantasy about what college will be like, but
when faced with reality, it’s a bit of a culture shock. I pulled 60
hour work weeks (including classes) one semester, worked two
jobs, lived off of 45 cent Kroger mini pizzas and cereal for weeks,
and still managed to pull a 3.5 GPA. I wish I was warned about
the mental and physical turmoil that college can bear on you.
I also wish that I had known that I would be supplementing my
class reading with other material not covered in class, because
I have an insatiable need to learn.
Allison Frew, Art History
Get a parking permit as early as possible.
Nedim Sudic, Fashion Design
Thankfully, I was bombarded with helpful advice and have no
regrets. The most helpful piece of advice was to work harder
than I’ve ever worked before and to keep my enthusiasm level
high. Having a coffee maker at my disposal was also a helpful
suggestion.
Rachel Z. Walters, Fashion Design
I wish someone had told me that Art Foundation and all the
portfolio reviews are really not that bad as long as you are
willing to work hard. I guess the same thing is true for pursuing
your major... it’s not that scary as long as you put in the work.
Meg Roberts, Craft/Material Studies (Metal)
I wish someone would have told me not to bring my car! You
practically don’t need it. I get so many parking tickets and it just
costs so much money. It’s best to walk or bike.
Katherine Duckworth, Painting & Printmaking
To MAKE SURE TO USE MY MEAL SWIPES. haha. Enough
said, I think.
Melanie Libbey, Music (flute performance)
I wish somebody had told me before coming to VCU the
importance of attending the guest artist lectures in every
department. It was not until these past two semesters that I
have realized the benefits of attending all lectures from every
department in the School of the Arts, and how it can influence
my thought process and ideas positively.
Tim Rusterholz, Sculpture + Extended Media
Not everyone here is a stereotypical art student. VCU is actually
quite diverse!
Lauren O’Neill, Graphic Design
Bring a bike! I actually didn’t know how to ride a bike before
coming to VCU, but I finally learned around spring break and
have constantly been begging friends to let me borrow theirs.
I’m definitely investing in one of my own for next year. I love
taking impromptu shopping trips to Carytown!
Ada Cooke, Art Foundation
I could have saved the $3,000 I used on meal plans and parking
to make my first feature.
Ian Edwards, Cinema
I wish that someone had told me to get out of VCU every now
and then. As a Dance major, you spend a lot of time in the
Dance Center with classes, rehearsals, extra rehearsals, and
more rehearsals. If you don’t pace yourself, you’ll burn out
quickly. Now that I think about it, I can distinctly remember
students warning me about this at the orientations I attended.
So I guess I really wish that I would have listened to them.
Don’t get me wrong, it is very important to be involved in the
department, in fact it’s integral to one’s success; however, a
good balance makes the load much lighter.
Aaron Burr Johnson, Dance and Choreography
59
What advice would you give to a new VCUarts student?
60
The best advice that I could give would be to take advantage of
all the opportunities presented to you. This school grants you a
wonderful chance to meet visiting artists, and it is important to
make it to as many lectures as possible.
William Connally, Photography
I’ve met a number of people who scoff at art majors, saying
it’s not as difficult or challenging as, say, a chemistry or
engineering major. Maybe you even believe that. I don’t care
what anyone says, but it is absolutely not true. You will be
investing a lot of time and energy and effort into your work. If
you aren’t, well, I worry for your grades. Be prepared, but if you
truly love art, I’m sure you will get through just fine.
Ada Cooke, Art Foundation
You can never be over-educated. I know that our art history
professors are always interested in personal opinions and
exciting art news from around the world. My advice to a new
student would be to always be on the lookout for new art, or
even new information on old art and embrace all facets of the
art experience. Richmond is one of the most important art
centers in the United States right now; you couldn’t have a
better opportunity.
Allison Frew, Art History
Don’t take the Art Foundation experience too lightly. It has
gotten the reputation as being the arts students’ boot camp.
I was also nervous about the program because I did not know
what to expect, but I really enjoyed it, it was a great experience.
Nedim Sudic, Fashion Design
If you ever get to a point where you are disinterested in your
assignments, and find yourself disengaged in your work, it’s
okay to move onto something else, or even take a break. This
is your art, and it should always be important to you, even if it
is a lot of work. Also, class assignments are never enough.
The more work you do, the better artist you will become.
Never stop working– ever.
Kirk Zamieroski, Kinetic Imaging
Everything at VCUarts is competitive. Everyone here is talented
and driven to succeed and stand out among other students. You
need to work as hard as you can and commit yourself to your work.
Ian Edwards, Cinema
Never become set in your ways. It will only hurt you. The best
way to take advantage of your schooling is to just open your
mind to virtually every possibility both in your everyday life and
in your work. Read books! Read essays! Go to galleries! Meet
new people! You aren’t here to be an art star. Just learn as
much as you possibly can while you are here because you have
so many wonderful things within your reach.
Katherine Duckworth, Painting & Printmaking
Meet as many people as you possibly can, and treat them all
the way they’ll indubitably treat you, with love and respect and
genuine care.
Melanie Libbey, Music (flute performance)
My advice to a new VCUarts student would be to network
and meet as many people as possible. It is important to meet
contacts relative to your field of study but also individuals
outside of your field. VCU’s diversity is one if its major assets
and students should use this to their advantage. A different
perspective can shape your outlook on a solution to a problem.
Linda J. Clark, Interior Design
Continued…
I would advise new VCUarts students to attend every lecture
they can no matter what major they choose to pursue. They
won’t always get the opportunity to hear so many successful
artists talk, so take advantage and see everybody that comes to
speak. They will make you better artists. I would also suggest
that new students read as many reviews as they can in Art in
America, Art Forum, etc; it will be beneficial to their work.
Tim Rusterholz, Sculpture + Extended Media
I would say, get involved in as much as you can, especially in
departments outside your own. Take advantage of all the gallery
showings, performances, and lectures that you can because
knowing your surroundings influences how you make your own
work, and in turn how it is received by your audience.
For new VCU Dance students specifically, present as much
choreography as you can. It’s really important to get comfortable
with presenting your own work and accepting feedback.
Aaron Burr Johnson, Dance and Choreography
Give the city a chance – don’t go stay in your dorm 24/7 or go
home every weekend.
Whitney Ann Stevens, Fashion Merchandising
New VCUarts students should try to attend as many gallery
openings, visiting artist lectures, musical performances, and
plays as possible. They should get out to the Virginia Museum
of Fine Arts, the National Gallery - anything they can do to
look at, talk about and experience as much art as possible.
I also recommend befriending people who are talented and
dedicated. Having friends who operate in a similar manner to
you is very sustaining in times of frustration. Plus, you can go to
shows together and partner up on group projects.
Rachel Z. Walters, Fashion Design
Don’t buy everything on the supply lists. Wait until
assignments are given, scavenge what you can from home,
share with your friends, and if you really must, then go to the
store and buy it. This will save you money and build ingenuity.
Secondly, get plugged in. You are going to need supportive
friends as you push through Art Foundation. There are campus
ministry groups and other awesome fellowships on campus.
Get involved and meet people. Last, take advantage of the great
fun, free experiences and services that VCU offers. There are
fitness classes, workshops, shows, lectures, art openings,
movies, food, culture, and so much more.
Lauren Leigh Hall, Art Education
The worst thing to do is waste Art Foundation classes by
complaining about them. Just use the opportunities and
projects to explore and make the pieces work towards your
goals. Don’t be a lemming.
Anne Schermerhorn, Film
Come with an open mind.
Save all your work.
Archive everything.
Keep a sketchbook with you at all times.
Research is key.
Ask a lot of questions.
Speak up in critiques.
Learn the rules and then break a lot of them.
Sleep every now and then.
Pride yourself on good craftsmanship.
Be observant of your surroundings.
Find inspiration in the things that you enjoy.
Discover all that Richmond has to offer.
Surround yourself with others.
Take chances.
Lauren O’Neill, Graphic Design
Advice for New Students, continued
62
63
64
Cover 3/Inside Back Cover
67
Want to know which guest artists are coming, where faculty members and alumni are exhibiting their work, or what shows and exhibitions are coming to VCUarts? While visiting ester, you can sign up to receive the weekly VCUarts events email too! Visit www.esterknows.com
PrudenceInterested in finding out about opportunities such as internships and competitions for VCUarts students? www.prudenceknows.info
Inside VCUartsFor information on everything from scholarships to where to buy a used easel, the Inside Arts section of the VCUarts web site has you covered. www.vcu.edu/arts/inside_vcu_arts
VCUarts makes it easy for students to find what they're looking for.
Undergraduate Admissions www.ugrad.vcu.edu
800.841.3638 ugrad@vcu.edu
SAT code: 5570, ACT code 4375
Welcome Center 1111 W. Broad Street 804.827.2000
Records and Registration www.vcu.edu/enroll/rar
rar@vcu.edu 804.1349
Financial Aid 804.838.6669 FAFSA code 003735
International Admissions804.828.6016
On-Campus Housingwww.housing.vcu.edu
804.828.7666 vcuhousing@vcu.edu
Off-Campus Student serviceswww.usca.vcu.edu/offcampus
804.828.7205 harperma@vcu.edu
Dining Services www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcufood
Health & Wellnesswww.students.vcu.edu/health
www.yourstrategy.org
Safety and emergency notificationswww.vcu.edu/arts/emergency_notifications
www.ugrad.vcu.edu/students/resources
Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts325 North Harrison Street, Ste 201Richmond, VA 23284-2519
arts@vcu.edu
(866) 534-3201 (toll free)(804) VCU-ARTS / (804) 828-2787
www.vcu.edu/arts
Cover 4/Back Cover
youthfulne s s
love
pas sion friendship
b e nevol e nce
commitme nt
powe r
appreciation o
f n
ature
agre e abl e ne s s
e xplorationpe r s eve rance
hope
morality
connectedne s s
curiosity
defiance
trust
courage
wonder
originality
vitalitylove of animal s
admiration
community involveme nt
empathy
re spect
inde pe nde nce
kindne s s
social conscie nce
sociability
creation
adve
nturo
usn
ess
power
of w
ill
strength
ambition
guts
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