Artist of the Month: Stolichnaya Duque
September 20, 2017
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Fresh out of middle school and starting her high school journey, freshman Stolichnaya “Sam” Duque uses a classic pencil and eraser to create art. Duque specializes in drawing anime fanart and her own original characters.
Duque started in a humble beginning, and was originally inspired by her friend.
“My friend back in 3rd grade used to draw anime; I got into anime because of her. I asked her if she could teach me how to draw anime,” Duque stated, “As the years went by, I started to teach myself.”
Now, she is inspired by various medias such other artists and anime. She taught herself through various sources on the internet, including websites like YouTube. Duque gives out advice anyone can follow when asked about how to grow as an artist.
“Draw everyday. I regret not drawing everyday more,” Sam said, “Before doing any stylized drawings, draw more realistic drawings and learn the rules.”
Duque likes to balance the fundamentals of art with her ideas.
“You need technique so you know what you’re doing,” Duque said. “Draw what you have in mind. Get it out of your mind. Unleash your creativity.”
Duque has passion for art, but her true love lies in the medical field.
“I want to be a doctor,” Sam said. “I got inspired by my grandma, who is a nurse, to be a doctor.”
To her, art is a hobby. Right now, Sam is working simply on improving her skills and knowledge as an artist through art classes on campus and on her own time. Sam Duque has a bright future ahead of her, whether it be in the art field or the medical field.
Being a fresh member of the team, I didn’t know Lily at all nor was I confident to talk to her. Her inspirations were what caught my eye, seeing her so enthusiastic for her found passion of art, a passion that is so inspiring, admittedly made me jealous. When I first met Lily, it was the beginning of the year in the podcast room. The excitement she shared to work with the team made me realize how friendly she is. As time went on, I have noticed how creative, energetic, and bright Lily is. She is able to animate the classroom environment whether it be cracking a couple of jokes or being a helping hand.
Being friends with her over the year, I can tell you that she can find a way to connect any topic to art, which is quite charming. It is nearly impossible to know Lily without her devotion to art. There is no pauses or breaks when she is in the grind of completing her work, something I truly value. Lily is someone that is reliable and is able to put 110% of her effort whenever possible. I am so lucky to work with someone that would put the extra mile to make the podcast or article more appealing.
Lily doesn’t perceive life the same way you and I do. She sees shape, color, and shadows in every direction. A skill so unique, that she is able to render three-dimensional images in a two-dimensional space. Every day she is improving her ability in art whether it be perspective, proportion, or gesture. As any artist should be, she is eager to progress in her career, passion, dream, and life of art. I look forward in seeing the magnitude of visionary work she creates in the future.
-Adam Bhuiyan
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