education

A Note from Ms. McManus

Dear The Creative Cycle,

Thanks again for the amazing gift of printmaking! I didn't tell you this, but I had enough supplies for only one class to make a print, and your gift allowed me to do the project with two classes, so 75 students got to make a print, and that was really great. 

Students learn so much from printmaking. They have to design everything backwards. They have to cut the print, and there is no fixing any errors, so it all takes planning- every inch must be designed prior to cutting, and it makes student really think through not only the light and dark, but every aspect of the design. The students loved making the prints, and your gift made it so much more fun with choices of colored ink and colored paper. 

This winter, we will be having an exhibition on our campus called, "INK," and our prints will be featured in the exhibition. Having this as a class project has given many students access to participating in this exhibit. Students were also able to print as many prints as they needed for their holiday gifts, which is nice for our low income kids. 

We thank you so much for your support in helping so many students create an original linoleum cut print. It made for an exciting December. Your support really does make a difference for our students!

With gratitude,
Ms. McManus

Los Angeles

A Note from Ms. Jue

Dear The Creative Cycle,

Thank you so much for your generosity in funding my project "Unleashing My Creativity With Sketch Pads". My students were so excited when my helpers opened the box and pulled out beautiful blue sketch pads. 

My students absolutely adore their sketch pads. Whenever they're done with their work, they ask to sketch in them. They look around the room for pictures or objects to sketch. After their sketch is complete, they meticulously color their drawings using beautiful colored pencils that were also donated through Donors Choose.

My students are having so much fun expressing their creativity in class and at home. Thank you again for your generosity and kindness. You are the best!

With gratitude,
Mrs. Jue

Los Angeles

Artist Suzy Poling

What is your artistic process?

I am a multidisciplinary, visual and sound artist. I make electronic-based music, photographs, collages, videos, installations, paintings and fiber-based art pieces. My work primarily deals with light, chemical and geological phenomenon in relation to the human form and psyche.  

What role did school (and maybe teachers) play in your development as an artist?

I started studying photography in High School and then went to college for it. My college years were really important to me as I bonded with many great Artists and Photography Professors. The school I went to pushed me to be rigorous and I pushed myself even further to utilize all of the resources. Eventually, I had to break away from their influence and just think for myself, but that is what personal vision is and what graduating is good for.

What role did art play in your education?

I went to school for art, so art was in the center of my education. I really enjoyed Art History, Religion, Abnormal Psychology, and Geology as well. I would say that all of these subjects have become part of my research and artistic content. I also taught myself many mediums, programs, and skills after college, so I could say that I am partially self-taught as well. I think everyone has to be considering how much technology changes.

Words of advice for young artists? 

I would say that it's important to keep finding ways to express yourself even if it's with some small little project. Keeping momentum and making magical things happen out of practically nothing is what it's all about it, if you ask me. As long as you are not making art purely for financial and egotistical reasons, then you should be able to keep going your entire life.

Shop Suzy Poling here

See her portfolio here