There are many talented artists at OHS, but only a select few have the honor of having their artwork displayed on the walls or in display cases. OHS senior, Julianna Watson, has artwork displayed outside Ms. Porter’s room. Watson’s art piece, “A Puzzled Life” was completed last school year in Mrs. Wallen’s ceramics 2 class and even won a Word and Image 2011/2012 Exhibition PAEA young artist award, which is no small feat.
Like many great artists, one must find a source of inspiration. Watson, inspired by the theme of honoring her ancestors and/or family members went on to create her clay art piece.
“Well, my teacher assigned the project and so I thought about a family member who really influenced my family and I and my teacher mentioned my brother, since he’s autistic. I was also practicing (making) hands out of clay so I made one and I needed something to represent my brother. Puzzle pieces represent autism so I used those,” said Watson.
After high school, Watson plans on harnessing her talents as a minor in college or doing something in the art field.
“I’m not really sure. I would like to do something with art therapy or become an art teacher. I really love art. My parents, mostly my dad, keeps trying to persuade me into doing something. But I think I’ll probably stay in science and only minor in art and do it for fun,” said Watson.
Some artists have some other artist they look up to and Watson shared her inspiration.
“That’s a hard one. I don’t have a favorite (artist) but I really enjoy Alex Meade because her artwork is so out of this world different and gorgeous. She paints real humans as a painting. I love how she uses a different media and style to produce something so realistic. It tricks your brain and I just love how she’s the first to do something so daring,” said Watson.
Watson appreciates art and the people who get the opportunity to admire her artwork.
“It’s awesome and I hope people actually take time to admire my artwork while it’s still free. It’s pretty awesome; people I don’t know get to know a piece of me through it.”
