Matched
14” x 17”
Graphite pencils
2026
I chose to work with graphite because it allowed me to focus on contrast, shadow and fine details without being overpowered by color. I carefully blended, layered and shaded this piece to highlight realistic facial features and depth. I incorporated the lit match as the main light source drawing attention to my facial expression and adding a sense of mystery.
Shadows
16” x 20”
Sumi Ink
2025
This is a still life that I created in an art class focusing on strong shadows and simplified shapes. This was my first experience using sumi ink. This piece demonstrates my understanding of lighting and negative space, using bold contrast to transform ordinary objects into something more dramatic and visually engaging.
Portrait in Pieces
9” x 12”
Black pens and markers
2026
This black and white panel created in my drawing class was inspired by a screenshot from a FaceTime call with my dad. I wanted to capture him at work in his scrubs. Instead of a traditional portrait, I broke up the image into comic style panels to capture different expressions and details, making the moment feel more personal. I created this piece to preserve an everyday interaction with my dad and show how ordinary moments can become lasting memories.
More black pen and marker panels.
Folded
Charcoal
2026
This observational drawing piece focuses on the folds, shadows, and highlights of draped fabric. I used charcoal to create strong contrast and show the movement and texture of the material. The striped pattern helped me explore how light changes across curved and overlapping surfaces.
my-EYE-self
13” x 16”
Gouache
2025
I created this piece in my illustration class to express my experience with chronic eye pain. The composition centers around my eye, using imagery including a bottle of pills and a bathroom mirror to represent both the physical pain and my search for relief. I chose to work in black and white to express the heaviness of my emotions while using contrast to emphasize each symbol. This piece taught me that art can communicate emotions using personal experiences