CREATIVITY: Student Artists at Franklin Regional

JACOB SIZEMORE: Senior Photographer

Although senior Jacob Sizemore is typically characterized by the blurry style his photos typically have, he believes that his style is constantly changing, and that he doesn’t stick to one style for too long.

“My favorite things to photograph are people, because I think every person is beautiful and I want to capture the beauty of their physical form, along with the beauty of their emotion in each photograph,” said Sizemore.

Sizemore has been an artist for as long as he can remember, and occasionally deviates from his photography-centered creations with other types of art.

“[I started creating art] when [I] first picked up something to write with and was like ‘Oh, cool, this does stuff.’ It just kind of happened.” said Sizemore.

Now, Sizemore takes AP Studio Art, as well as photography classes at the University of Pittsburgh.

“[My favorite thing about art is] the message it can send, because it can be different to each person who views it.”

Sizemore believes that everything is art, and that anyone who wants to become an artist should explore different types of art to find what works for them.

SOPHIE ADAMS: Junior Photographer

Junior Sophie Adams has always liked art, starting with simple coloring when she was little.

Now, she focuses on painting, although she also enjoys all kinds of traditional 2D art.

“I think art is a reflection of the artist’s feelings,” said Adams. “I incorporate lots of colors into my paintings to reflect my mood and personality.”

Adams typically paints portraits, and is frequently inspired by people around her.

“It’s really satisfying to see the end result,” said Adams. “[Art also] helps with anxiety, and I like the fact that I can multi-task and watch Netflix while doing something productive.”

Although she typically does not do much with her art, she occasionally sells it or works for commissions.

She is also in the AP Studio Art and the National Art Honor Society.

However, she is not yet sure if she wants to pursue a career in an artistic field.

“I’ll probably just continue doing [art] on the side,” said Adams.

Adams does not believe that art is a natural talent, and encourages others to work to improve their art.

“Make art for yourself,” said Adams. “If you’re not satisfied, keep practicing.”

CARSON WOLFF: Junior Graphic Designer/Painter

Junior Carson Wolff has been using art as a way to “let off steam,” since elementary school, when he was first introduced through the mandatory art classes.

Now, he creates many different types of art, including graphic design, painting, sculpture, ceramics, and special effects.

“Art is anything I want it to be,” said Wolff. “It can be a way to express anger or happiness but can also be a simple gift to a friend. It can be expressed in all forms and has an infinite amount of meanings.”

He finds the inspiration for his creations in nature, but also in his and others’ emotions.

“I like to paint and sculpt what I am and what others are feeling rather than recreating anything tangible,” said Wolff.

Wolff is considering pursuing a career in an artistic field, but realizes the risks.

“A lot of people says that it’s impractical, and I can decide if I believe them or if I want to pursue my dream anyways,” said Wolff.

Currently, he gives a lot of his art away to friends, but keeps the more emotional pieces for himself, and is willing to sell his art to others interested in buying.

SARAH ROWLEY: Senior Painter

Although senior Sarah Rowley did not start to be serious about her art until she was in seventh grade, she has been an artist her entire life.

“It started when I was a toddler,” said Rowley. “I used to doodle everywhere and on everything.”

Rowley often finds herself inspired by the work of other artists, or by random items she encounters over the course of her day.

Although she mostly keeps her art to herself, she occasionally posts pictures on her instagram account and is interested in selling art pieces in the future.

She is a part of the National Art Honor Society, and teaches art classes in her free time.

“I believe that art has a lot to do with self expression and the idea of making something beautiful and meaningful,” said Rowley. “It's fun to watch a piece come together and continue to work at it.”

Although Rowley believes that art is in some ways a natural talent, she encourages anyone interested to practice their drawing skills frequently.

“Doodling is a great way to start,” said Rowley. “Someone can become a good artist even if they are not naturally talented by working hard at it.”

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