URSCI, Dominican University

The URSCI program at Dominican University is a prestigious research and study initiative that awards scholarships to students who pursue advanced academic or creative projects. As part of this program, I created a series of oil paintings, focusing on both landscapes and portraits of professors. The landscape paintings were inspired by real-life observation, allowing me to immerse myself in the changing environment. One striking observation was how the warm tonalities of the scenery shifted as summer faded into fall, revealing the beauty of seasonal transformation. This process required me to adapt my techniques to capture the subtle changes in light, color, and atmosphere, which enhanced my skills in blending observation with artistic expression. The landscapes became a reflection of the environment's natural rhythm and my evolving perspective as an artist.

The portrait sessions with professors were equally enriching, offering a unique blend of technical challenge and collaborative learning. Each session became an opportunity to not only capture the essence of my subjects but also to receive their artistic insights. These interactions fostered a deeper connection, as we bonded over a shared appreciation for art and creativity. Painting these portraits allowed me to explore the complexity of human expression, translating personality and emotion onto canvas while refining my skills in oil painting. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dominican University for supporting this project and providing me with this opportunity. A special thank you goes to Professors Frank Spidale and Jeffrey Cote de Luna for their guidance, encouragement, and inspiration throughout this journey. Their mentorship has been invaluable, and this experience has left a lasting impact on my artistic growth and personal development.