Lower School Student Art

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LOWER SCHOOL LOWER SCHOOL ART ART

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1. Pre-primes, posing in cut-paper masks after their study of masks around the world 2. Truman Brooks '24 self-portrait in tempera 3. Avery Eren '28, primary and secondary color collage with line inspired by the work of Wassily Kandinsky 4. Tommy Perreault '27 inspired by Wayne Thiebaud’s “the three machines” 5. Oliver Antov '26, plaster King Tut mask 6. Piper Romaniello '27, pear still life 7. IInd Form working on the Chinese New Year dragon 8. Catalina La Placa '28, desserts painting inspired by painter Wayne Thiebaud 9. Still life by Zachary Kocienda ‘24 10. Griffin Hawley '24 designing a plaster mold for an animal mask 11. Aelita Rogers '24, self-portrait

ALUMNI PROFILE

ALEXANDER KRIVOSHEIW '93 Internationally renowned sculptor

After leaving Rumsey, Alexander began his artistic studies in Greece at the age of 15, moving on to graduate from The School of Visual Arts in New York City with a B.A. in Sculpture, and then spending seven years apprenticing under acclaimed sculptor, Kevin Barrett. Alexander’s work has been exhibited worldwide and belongs in the private collections of various world leaders and celebrities. His full portfolio is available at www.aksculptures.com.

How has your career and life unfolded since leaving Rumsey Hall?

It's been quite a journey. I wasn't quite sure where I'd land after leaving Rumsey. Testing was never my strong suit – I was slightly dyslexic (I just had to spell check that). That, paired with my low SAT scores, limited my educational opportunities. It also bred insecurity in me which would later surprisingly become a gift. It motivated me to prove to myself that I could be a success despite what I looked like on paper. My skills in creative writing, sports, and charming interviews were my backdoor entrance into schools that focused on liberal arts. I was accepted to The Williston Northampton School in Massachusetts. They foresaw a career in athletics which later became less of interest to me than their arts program. I'm pretty confident that this became a problem for my acceptance the following year (or maybe it was dating the principal's daughter). The art teacher at Williston saw my potential, but unfortunately, that wasn't enough. My parents consulted with an educational advisor to find a school that would better suit my artistic strengths.

Due to my low SAT scores, the advisor suggested that I have an Emotional Intelligence Test. My EQ score was through the roof. An average EQ score ranges from 90-100, with a perfect score measuring 160. I scored 150. Researchers recognized that even though SAT scores could help predict academic performance and professional success, some of those with high scores were doing poorly in life by communicating in a way that hindered their chances to succeed. They lacked emotional intelligence, so that's when my EQ score proved to be an advantage, putting me in a bracket to study in college courses while in high school. I was accepted into an intense college graduate program by the name of Ithaka in Greece. I was quickly recognized as a creative thinker with talents in the fine arts arena. Following my graduation from the Ithaka program, I returned to the States and was accepted as a senior to Buxton School in Massachusetts. I graduated with honors in liberal and fine art. After seven years away from home, which began when I was only 12, it was time to return to NYC. I was accepted into the School of Visual Arts where I apprenticed with a renowned metal sculptor, Kevin Barrett. After 12 years, I took a hiatus to explore other creative endeavors, which included everything from interviewing George Lucas to working with the world's brightest kinetic engineers creating interactive sculptural forms. Eventually, I ended up in South Florida to open up my studio seven years ago.

How did you get your start as a sculptor and how did you come to the specific style and materials that you are known for?

Sculpting chose me at a very young age. I was about four years old when I found myself in my father's garage, building little wooden sculptures. At age 15, I was selected along with 12 other students from around the world to participate in the Ithaka program in Greece. I was the youngest student enrolled, as the majority of my classmates had already graduated from college — each student was paired with a mentor whose expertise ranged from social anthropologists to master Greek artisans. I was placed with a premier marble sculptor who I apprenticed with for two years, carving marble angels and deities for Greek Orthodox churches. Here, was when I recognized my affinity and love for sculpture and appreciation for mythology, which has since been an ongoing theme in my work. I then apprenticed with a third-generation abstract metal sculptor in Brooklyn, NY. I first learned how to work with aluminum, which is the best material to learn on, as it is the most delicate. Then bronze and stainless steel. I fell in love with the fundamental nature of metal's longevity, strength, and inherent elegance.

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

This is a common question an artist is asked to articulate. For me, the inspiration is not a specific object or moment, but more so, the space between the viewer and their subject. We are in a constant emotional state which changes at every waking second, and we all perceive things subjectively. As Anais Nin expresses best, "we do not see things as they are, we see things as we are." It's the ongoing evolutionary contemplation of this space that fascinates me.

In what way do you feel that your time at Rumsey inspired or encouraged your future as a sculptor?

I continuously recognize the ways that Rumsey has influenced me. The structure of the School helped to develop my sense of discipline. Discipline is really what separates a professional artist from a hobbyist. The teachers at Rumsey fostered creative individualism. The art scene is full of replicated concepts, therefore being in an environment that pushed me to develop my ideas, and to own them, gave me an identity and confidence that the majority of artists don't have.

What has been your favorite piece that you have created, and why?

That's a tough question. Every sculpture validates itself in its own time. My work with the The International Olympic Committee sculpting The President's Trophy (the most prestigious award given to highly respected and admired global icons) was surreal. It put my work in the hands of the most notable people on the planet, from world leaders to the most decorated Olympians like Usain Bolt. Then again, every sculptor wants to see their work on the largest scale possible, so my monumental sculptures that have been installed internationally are other favorites. But my most heartwarming piece is a very small sculpture that I sold to a retired nurse. He loved the work so much that he saved year after year to have enough money to purchase one for himself. His raw passion and love for this piece made this little 9-inch maquette, Amour, one of my favorites. Sometimes, it's not about the piece alone, but the emotional attachment that the collector has to it that makes it a favorite.

What has been a memorable moment in your career?

Being able to sit here and share these moments with you.

What advice would you give to current students who are interested in art?

Don't limit yourself. Understand that every mistake is an opportunity. If you're not scared of what's coming next, you're not growing. Every aspect of life plays a role in your creative spirit. Once you second guess your intrigue, you should stop thinking and move forward. "Idle hands are the devil's workshop" can't be better stated here. These moments don't always make sense at the time, but will eventually play a role in your developed mind. Be patient, and in time you will understand why.

The President's Trophy: Bronze plated with 24k Gold. Commissioned by the International Olympic Committee "the President's Trophy is the highest sports award given to athletes who have excelled in their sport and had an extraordinary career, creating a lasting impact on their sport" - Wikipedia

RUMSEY QUESTIONNAIRE

What is the first word that comes to mind when you think of Rumsey Hall?

Family. Who are your Rumsey heroes? Tom Farmen and my girlfriend at the time. What do you treasure most about Rumsey? The discipline and willingness of the faculty to improve a student's weaknesses and still enhance his or her strengths. If you were to host a dinner

party with anyone, who would be on

the guest list? Antonia Canova, Henry Moore, Stanislav Grof, Nikola Tesla, David Bowie, Barack Obama, Steven Spielberg, Hulk Hogan, Alfred Hitchcock, The Dalai Lama, Albert Einstein, Aristotle, Ludwig van Beethoven, and my father. If you

could go back and change one thing about your time at Rumsey, what would

it be? Nothing. I've never lived a life of regret. If you were given a superlative

your senior year at Rumsey, what would

it have been? Best Dressed. I was known for my vibrant colored blazers with the sleeves rolled up.

When was the last time you were on

Rumsey's campus? Ten years ago, for a lecture I gave.

Car Parade! JUNE 5, 2020

Commencement 2020

Dear Class of 2020,

Your class, the Class of 2020, will forever be known as the group of leaders who charted a courageous and inspiring course through a pandemic that disrupted our lives in every possible way. You stayed connected, cared for one another, and maintained the core values of our community. Even as you confronted the challenge of being apart, your class came together in remarkable ways. We honor and celebrate your resilience, strength, and grit. We are so very proud of each one of you. Years from now, you will look back on this spring term with pride because you made it through while remaining true to the extraordinary people you are. When we are able, we look forward to gathering you here on campus to reunite your class.

Congratulations!

We miss you dearly and salute you.

Dear Rumsey,

I didn’t think we’d part like this, so far away, saying our goodbyes through screens and tear-stained letters. I met you at a time in my life when everything was going wrong and going right at the same time. The good and bad were blending together, and I experienced most of that with you. Seeing you for the very first time, I hadn’t expected my eyes to open that wide or to walk away that day knowing that I’d be returning for a whole two years of walking up the hill, playing on your courts, running through your fields, crying in your rooms, and laughing in your dining hall.

Soon, I noticed I was becoming a better person because of you. Maybe it was your friendly smiles, warm inviting hands, freezing but beautiful winters, and the way leaves seem to fall more when you were around. Maybe I’m imagining it, but there was just something that I couldn’t put my finger on that lit me up inside.

You introduced me to friends I will never forget. Maybe you smiled at them the same way you smiled at me. Because, somehow, you always seem to make us all share that same inexplicable life. Every laugh we share, each hug and helping hand we gave each other, you were behind. People reached out to me, so willing to help, and, like you, helped me become who I am so proud to be now.

It’s so nice to speak with you again, Rumsey. It’s been a while, but don’t ever think you’re far from my mind. The curve at the end of my letter T’s reminds me of how at the end of a long day, you picked me up again to face tomorrow, when I opened my blinds to let the sun in again, even when sleep was so inviting. Sure, we had our moments where I wanted to turn away from you. But your steady presence, patience, and persistence always brought me back.

I’m anticipating the day when I will return to your door, your faithful friend knocking again. No matter how you’ve grown, you will not have changed a bit. You will have open ears. And no matter how I have changed, you will remain the same with your kind smile, welcoming arms ready to catch me when I fall, and warm hands to applaud when I succeed.

It would be wonderful to be with you once again.

Forever yours, Renee Tracey, Class of 2020

commencement prizes 2020

The Edward B. Whitney Prize for Excellence in Declamation: Kyra Charlize Rook ’20

The Annual Dining Hall Prefect Award: Yiyang Jack Ruan ’20

The Prize for the Greatest Improvement in Scholarship: John William Bartels ’20

The Lawrence Larkin '16 Computer Achievement Award: William Sherer ’20

The Richard M. Wachcic Junior Athletic Award: Elena Cosgriff ’23 Sawyer Gray ’23

The Charlotte Underwood Library Award: Minseong Ethan Kim ’20

The Best All-Around Male and Female Athletes: Morgan Ashley Clarke ’20 JunHo Lee ’20

The Prize for The Boarding Scholars with the Best Conduct Record: Samantha Ellie Kaufman ’20 Santino Vincenzo DeFazio ’20

Greatest Improvement in Athletics: Victoria Olivia Weirich-Freiberg ’20 Ryan James Delmore ’20 The Cody Montana ’08 Memorial Paddle Out Award: Aleka Gutierrez Saenz ’20

The Prize for Outstanding Scholar-Athlete: Fangyan Wendy Huo ’20 Quillan Oberto ’20

The David Loyd Memorial Prize: Kyra Charlize Rook ’20

The Marjorie Hull Barr Prize: Andrew Roraback ’24

The J. Mitchell Magnoli ’77 Memorial Award: Junho Lee ’21

The Scott Evans Seibert ’92 Memorial Scholarship: Charles Cashel ’21

The Faculty Cup: Renee Tracey ’20

The Memorial Award: Alejandro Osorio Mijangos ’20

The Duff Community Service Cup: ZiYi Wang ’20

The Alfred L. Hart II ’65 Fine Arts Prize: Sierra Mayme Cortes ’20

The Ryan J. Whelan ’89 Memorial Scholarship Prize: Charleigh Newman ’21 The Award for Excellence: Youngseo “Emily” Son ’20

The John F. Schereschewsky, Jr. ’47 Memorial Award: Oliver Ramee ’21

The Gabriella Bass ’94 Art Award: Robert Fairchild Ober IV ’20

The Rose Algrant Memorial Scholarship: Rosemarie Oberto ’22

The Henry B. Van Sinderen Memorial Scholarship Award: Myles Crain ’21

Prize for Perseverance and Worthy Endeavor: Chloe Roberts Coffin ’20

Award for Leadership: Ian H. Abreu ’20

Award for Merit: Erin Reilly Butler ’20

Headmaster’s Cup: Evan P. Rydingsword ’20

Class Speaker: Renee Tracey '20

Permanent 2020 Class President: Robert Fairchild Ober IV '20

Names of graduates as they appear on their diploma

Ian H. Abreu John William Bartels + Kangdrake Bernardin Taylor Stephen Brown *+ Erin Reilly Butler Edoardo Carlo Cassano Zhun Chen * Morgan Ashley Clarke + Chloe Roberts Coffin + Andrew Christopher Conto Sierra Mayme Cortes Santino Vincenzo DeFazio *+ Ryan James Delmore Griffin Owen Dow Xander Gort Aleka Gutierrez Saenz Ivy Hillman Alexander Charles Howe Fangyan Huo Yunseo (Christine) Jeong Samantha Ellie Kaufman *+ Alexander Robert Kenerson *+ Quinn Andrew Kennedy Minseong Kim *+ William Blanchard Kirkiles JunHo Lee Mason Joseph Lockowitz Spencer Louie Giancarlo C. Mendieta + Robert Fairchild Ober IV * Quillan Oberto Alejandro Osorio Mijangos Danil Popov Clara Patricia Rodriguez Cisneros + Kyra Charlize Rook Yiyang Ruan + Evan P. Rydingsword William Sherer Matthew Tyler Sherman * Joshua Lawrence Smotroff Carter Scott Sneller * Youngseo “Emily” Son + Richard Joseph Souza III Katherine Grace Stutt Jiakang (Kakou) Su Aubrey Alexander Swan Renee Tracey Nene Uchiumi +Jacques van der Merwe Grant J. Vogel Yimiao "Miranda" Wang ZiYi Wang +Victoria Olivia Weirich-Freiberg Chase Robert Weisleder Shaowen Yang Yuzhe “Kevin” Zhang Deyi "Jasmine" Zhu Charlie Devyn Zimmerman

* With Three or More Honors Courses + Charter Member – Enrolled Since Lower School

Permanent Class President: Robert Fairchild Ober IV

Where they were accepted

and where they went...

Acceptance List

Asheville School, NC Avon Old Farms School, CT Benet Academy, IL Berkshire School, MA Blair Academy, NJ Brewster Academy, NH Brooks School, MA Canterbury School, CT Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall, MA Chatham Hall, VA Cheshire Academy, CT Choate Rosemary Hall, CT Christopher Columbus HS, FL Concord Academy, MA Culver Academies, IN Cushing Academy, MA Emma Willard School, NY Episcopal High School, VA Ethel Walker School, CT Forman School, CT Frederick Gunn School, CT Governor’s Academy, MA Gulliver Prep, FL The Hill School, PA Hopkins School, CT Hotchkiss School, CT Kent School, CT King School, CT Lawrence Academy, MA Loomis Chaffee School, CT Master’s School, NY Millbrook School, NY Miss Porter’s School, CT Northfield Mount Hermon, MA Oldfields School, MD Palmer Trinity School, FL Peddie School, NJ Pennington School, NJ Pomfret School, CT Portsmouth Abbey, RI Proctor Academy, NH St. Andrew’s School, DE St. George’s School, RI Salisbury School, CT South Kent School, CT Suffield Academy, CT Tabor Academy, MA Taft School, CT Trinity-Pawling School, NY Vermont Academy, VT Westminster School, CT Westover School, CT Westtown School, PA Wilbraham & Monson School, MA Williston Northampton School, MA

Matriculation List

American School Foundation, MX Asheville School, NC Avon Old Farms, CT Berkshire School, MA Blair Academy, NJ Brewster Academy, NH Brooks School, MA Canterbury School, CT Choate Rosemary Hall, CT Christopher Columbus H.S., FL Culver Academies, IN Episcopal High School, VA Forman School, CT Frederick Gunn School, CT Hopkins School, CT Hotchkiss School, CT Kent School, CT King School, CT Loomis Chaffee, CT Masters School, NY Palmer Trinity School, FL Peddie School, NJ St. George’s School, RI Salisbury School, CT South Kent School, CT St. Mark’s, MA Suffield Academy, CT Taft School, CT Tomas Moro Lomas, MX Vermont Academy, VT Westminster School, CT Westover School, CT Wyoming Seminary, PA