Tell us about your project.

My project is a collection of lifestyle illustrations that depict the close bond between humans and animals, especially their pets. It celebrates the joy, companionship and humor that animals bring into our lives—from cats and birds to even rats.

What most surprised you once you started working on the project?

I was surprised that I successfully came out with a cohesive series of works. I thought there would be some pieces I didn’t like before starting it, but I personally love every single one I’ve done for the project.

What was a highlight of living and studying in New York City?

There were so many museums and shows that you can get inspiration from. And because my series focuses on animals, I noticed that people have really cute pets here in New York and they dress them up in cute costumes sometimes. And I just love to look at them.

What is something you learned at SVA that you’ll always take with you?

I learned that it’s always important to be creative and fresh. You have to do something that nobody was doing to stand out.

Was there a teacher or course that was essential for you?

I love the lifestyle and fashion illustration classes from Amanda Lanzone and Autumn Whitehurst because I love drawing lifestyle themes. The Intro to Riso class by Panayiotis Terzis taught me how to do Risographs and that became one of my most essential methods to make art ever since.

What was your favorite piece of advice that a teacher or student shared with you?

I remember a few professors told us to try not to force having an art style; it will happen naturally afterward. I followed and it does seem to be true.

What advice do you have for next year’s students going through your program?

Choose courses that you think are going to help you with your future career and make sure you are interested and dedicated to them.

For this year’s SVA Alumni Scholarship Awards, 71 students were chosen from a pool of hundreds of applicants and granted scholarships worth $63,500 for dozens of art and multimedia projects. To see a list of the 2023 recipients, click here. For more information about applying for an Alumni Scholarship Award, click here.

To contribute to the Support the Talent campaign, you can make a donation online at sva.edu/give.

The BFA Illustration student was recognized for his illustration project ‘Furry Companion.’