Artist of the Issue: Junior Jackie Bae

Junior Jackie Bae talks about her passion for drawing and why she has been committed to this hobby for 11 years. Using different types of media, mainly pencil, Bae expresses herself through this type of art and will begin to prepare for a portfolio due in November to showcase her artwork in preparation to show colleges next year.

Q: What types/kinds of art do you do?
A: I do mainly drawing. I basically draw anything I’m capable of drawing: people, animals, objects, and scenery. I use many different types of media, but I like to use pencil and paper most often.

Q: What age did you start drawing seriously?
A: Well, I drew stick figures and happy faces since I was a toddler and doodled all over my homework in elementary school. I guess that’s not really “art,” but drawing has always been my favorite hobby ever since I was able to hold a pencil.

Q: Why do you like this type of art?
A: Simply put, I like drawing because it’s enjoyable. If there’s something on my mind, I’m able to put it on a piece of paper and show it to the entire world. It’s a creative and fun form of expression that I can do for hours and hours without any restrictions. When I’m having a bad day, drawing whatever comes to mind cheers me up.

Q: How does this art make you feel?
A: Well, basically, when I draw I can convey messages that sometimes I cannot express in words. Some people write poetry, while others just like to talk, but for me the best way to express myself in through drawing. It’s nice to know that I’m talented in something—and this gives me a greater motivation to keep on trying, regardless of the constant erasing I end up doing.

Q: How do you get inspired?
A: Anything that leaves an impression on me inspires me to draw, I guess, anything from a song to a dream to a novel. Other times, I get my inspiration from how I feel. If I’m happy, that’s the mood I’ll go for when I’m drawing. If I’m sad, I’ll draw something sad.

Q: What is the favorite type of art you do?
A: I love to draw cartoons. It’s something I learned to do by myself, and it doesn’t require too much preparation. All I need is a pencil, a piece of paper and my brain. It’s fun to exaggerate the gestures and expressions of everything. I suck at picking out birthday presents for my friends, so I always make them a birthday card or draw them a picture as a present. They’re totally legitimate, ’cause I put time and effort into them! I most often use either a pencil or pen or a tablet to draw on the computer.

Q: Do you want to be an artist when you grow up..or is this more of a hobby?
A: Drawing had always been a hobby for me, but it wasn’t until pretty recently when I decided to pursue art seriously. I’m actually working on a portfolio now so I can apply to art colleges next year. I want to major in art.

Q: Are you in the art program here?
A: Yes, I am. I’m currently in Art 3 with Mr. McCue. I’m also in the Expressions Club.