Kira Fennell

CLASS OF 1978 MERIT SCHOLARSHIP, $4,000

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I submitted a variety of mixed-media drawings and paintings. Most of the work contains imagery of animals in invented settings. The work feels nostalgic and represents fragmented versions of my memories.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I chose MCAD because I love Minnesota, I was used to a small school population, and I thought the Art Sale would be a good thing to be a part of.

What are your plans for your senior year? And beyond?

I'm excited for senior project. It'll be nice to work on a specific body of work. I hope to get a study of my own where I will continue my freelance work. 

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

I love my peers. It means a lot to be around like-minded people. 

What's the best thing you've got from MCAD's free shelf?

A working EPSON printer/scanner.

What inspires you? 

Most of all people inspire me. All of my work stems from interactions I have in day to day activity or from my past. I love learning from people. 

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

My favorite work is a 24 x 36 in oil painting [pictured below] I did over my peer Anavi Mullick's work which she gave me specifically for this project. I love working from material that already exists. The original painting was of a dog in a yellow room. I morphed scenes and setting from my childhood and from owning the only dog I've ever had. I titled it Lu and there's text about how he died and contains the tip of a palette knife that I broke while painting it. The scene doesn't make sense physically, but the elements I added make sense in reference to each other.