Shadows
14” x 17”
Sumi Ink on paper
2025-2026
I created the first image (bottom left) in this series of still lifes to illustrate how light and shadow can transform ordinary objects. This was my first time using sumi ink. I wanted to explore negative space and use bold contrast to make familiar objects feel more dramatic and visually engaging. As I became more comfortable with the medium, I challenged myself to further develop my technique through the self-directed skull and vase paintings. These later works demonstrate my growth as an artist and my ability to use sumi ink to create depth, contrast, and dimension.
Matched
14” x 17”
Graphite pencils on paper
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.
Portrait in Pieces
5.5” x 8.5”
Black pens and markers in sketchbook
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 in sketchbook.
Folded
18” x 24”
Charcoal on paper
2026
This observational drawing focuses on the folds, shadows, and highlights of draped fabric. I used charcoal to create strong contrast and capture the movement and texture of the material. The striped pattern helped me explore how light interacts with curved and overlapping surfaces and how the stripes shift as the fabric folds.
THE OBServer
20” x 26”
Charcoal on paper
2026
I made this observational drawing focusing on a study of the face and the objects arranged around it. I carefully blended and layered the charcoal to create contrast and show the light, shadows, and textures of each object. The draped fabric in the background helped me explore how folds and shadows add depth to the composition. The title reflects the figure in the drawing as well as my role as the artist, challenging myself to closely examine the surface and texture of each object.
my-EYE-self
13” x 16”
Gouache on paper
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
A COLLECTION CALLED ME
Black pen and marker on paper
2026
This is a still life illustration of objects I enjoy and that represent who I am. I arranged the objects together to make the composition feel personal, like a small portrait told through the things I use and enjoy. Drawing them in black and white gave me a chance to focus on their shapes, textures, and details, while creating a piece that feels connected to my personality.