Faith Shields- Artist Statement

    Growing up, I always had a love for video games that let me create new characters and new worlds. From shaping the future of a creature to building a zoo from scratch, games allowed my imagination to run wild. I was always passionate about creation. I would sit for hours scrutinizing every detail until my character or world was perfect. These early games made me comfortable with computers and inspired a love of digital art at an early age.

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    My parents encouraged my love of art, taught me crucial skills and techniques and supplied me with all manner of materials and programs. We would travel to art museums all over the country for inspiration. They showed me the power and significance that art held throughout history and in our society today. This support gave me the resources and encouragement I needed to feel confident in furthering my artistic ability.

    When I started high school, I was able to enroll in the Digital Media Arts program. This program helped me solidify my decision for my future career. After learning the basics of different Adobe programs such as Photoshop, Animate, Illustrator, and Premiere, I knew I wanted to specialize in some form of digital art as a career. Towards the end of my junior year, I had the opportunity to create an original 2-D animation. I fell in love with Adobe Animate immediately. I loved creating a character and giving it a personality through motion. The feeling of struggling through a certain action until I created something that looked smooth and professional drove me to animate for hours.

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    Digital media arts has been my true passion for as long as I can remember. I love the idea of creating art that brings enjoyment to people and improves their lives. I aspire to have a fulfilling career impacting people’s lives through my work, whether that be by providing entertainment or by educating others on a certain topic through interactive play. I would like my work to influence social change and improve communities.