ASCENDING ARTIST

SOPHOMORE HANNAH GAO BECOMES YOUNGEST STUDENT ACCEPTED INTO AP ART PROGRAM

When did you begin your interest in art?

I don’t know when I exactly started it, I’ve just always liked drawing as long as I can remember. I think it started out as just wanting to draw my favorite cartoon characters and cats.

Has anyone inspired you to pursue art?

One of my biggest inspirations to keep going is my dad. He always supports my art and used to be an architect himself.

How have art prgrams at HSE pushed you?

Art programs at HSE have allowed me to create more unique work. It have given me a space at school to do what I love on a regular basis. The teachers, especially Mrs. Fritz, are supportive, and I feel like they really help you improve in terms of constructive critique as well as advice.

What have AP art classes taught you?

Art classes taught me to better manage my time and especially taught me to keep creating even if I have rough patches or a piece doesn’t turn out how I initially intended.

What has been your favorite piece you have created?

My favorite piece I have made so far was one of the assignments from drawing one. It’s a mildly surreal hand coming out of a paper bag that was made with graphite.

Do you plan on pursuing a career in art?

I don’t know what exactly my plans are post-high school, but if I were to go into art, I would do architecture.

As the youngest person in AP art, what advice do you want to give to others who have the same goal as you?

I would definitely say to other artists that they should be prepared for the amount of time, work and devotion that this class takes. It’s a very fun and rewarding class; however, it is a big commitment. It is a challenging class for all grade levels, not just for underclassman, because instead of the five or six pieces you make in a regular semester art class, you are submitting 15 or more works to College Board that go along with a theme you work with throughout the entire year. I was just lucky to be invited into the class early by my art teachers, and I work hard to complete consistent and quality work. However, I think if you’re passionate about art, it’s a class for sure worth taking! Q & A by Gabriella Haynes. Photo by Lauren Riina HSENEWS 3