She was a true Renaissance woman, with a wide range of interests and passions.
Table of Contents
A Life of Exploration and Discovery
Kierstin’s life was a testament to the power of exploration and discovery. She was always seeking new experiences, new knowledge, and new ways of expressing herself.
The third was a small apartment in Manhattan. The author’s experiences in these three locations have shaped their perspective on the land and its inhabitants.
The Power of Place
The places we live in have a profound impact on our lives, shaping our experiences, perspectives, and identities. The author’s diverse upbringing in three unique locations has instilled in them a deep appreciation for the natural world and a sense of responsibility towards the land and its inhabitants.
The Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains, a vast wilderness area in upstate New York, was the author’s summer home. The rugged landscape, dotted with lakes, forests, and mountains, provided a serene and peaceful environment. The author spent countless hours exploring the woods, learning about the local flora and fauna, and developing a deep respect for the natural world. The Adirondacks are home to over 3,000 species of plants and animals, including the iconic moose and the rare Adirondack loon.
I was able to learn at my own pace and focus on areas of interest.
The Benefits of Home Taught Education
Home taught education offers numerous benefits for students, including:
A More Specialized and Hands-on Learning Environment
Growing up home taught allowed me to learn at my own pace and focus on areas of interest. For instance, I was able to spend hours exploring the outdoors, conducting experiments, and learning about science and nature. This hands-on approach to learning helped me develop a deeper understanding of complex concepts and fostered a love for learning that has stayed with me to this day.
The Importance of Parental Involvement
Parental involvement is a crucial aspect of home taught education.
I was a true free spirit, always looking for new ways to express myself.
Early Years of Exploration
As a child, I was always fascinated by the world of art. I spent hours sketching and drawing, creating my own little worlds and characters. My parents encouraged my creativity, providing me with art supplies and materials to explore.
The Struggle is Real
I was devastated by the rejection letters, but I refused to give up. I knew that I had to find a way to pursue my passion for art, even if it meant taking a non-traditional route. I began to explore alternative options, such as online courses and community colleges. Some of the online courses I took included: + Introduction to Digital Art + Graphic Design + Illustration + Painting
+ Drawing + Color Theory + Composition
The Turning Point
It was during this time that I realized that I didn’t need to be accepted into a prestigious art school to be a successful artist.
The Power of Influences
Influences can be both positive and negative, shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and personalities in profound ways. The impact of influences can be seen in various aspects of our lives, from our relationships and career choices to our values and worldview.
The Good Influences
The Bad Influences
Overcoming discouragement to find artistic passion and purpose.
The Origins of My Passion
Growing up, I was always fascinated by art. I spent hours sketching and drawing, lost in my own little world of colors and shapes. My parents encouraged my creativity, providing me with art supplies and taking me to museums and galleries. However, as I entered my teenage years, I began to face discouragement from others. They would tell me that I wasn’t good enough, that I should focus on more “practical” pursuits. Some of the discouragement came from teachers, who would often dismiss my artwork as “just doodles” or “not serious enough.”
The Turning Point
But one day, I stumbled upon a quote that changed everything for me. It was from a famous artist, who said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” Those words resonated deeply with me, and I realized that art wasn’t just about creating something beautiful, but about expressing myself and bringing joy to others. I started to see art as a way to escape the negativity and criticism that I had faced in the past. I began to focus on my passion, rather than letting the discouragement of others hold me back.
My Artistic Journey
As I reflect on my artistic journey so far, I realize that my passion for art has been a constant companion throughout my life. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the world of art, spending hours sketching and painting. My parents, recognizing my talent, encouraged me to pursue my passion and enrolled me in the Ani Art Academy.
Early Years at the Academy
My time at the academy was instrumental in shaping my artistic skills. I was exposed to various mediums, including oil painting, which I had always been drawn to. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, I honed my techniques and developed my own unique style. I was particularly drawn to the works of the Old Masters, whose mastery of light and color continues to inspire me.