2023 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Lynaea Russom

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

The work I chose to submit focuses mostly on appropriated imagery from my childhood translated through the lens of printmaking. I see my work as a means of autobiography to speak to my experience as a Queer woman as well as a means of getting to know myself better.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I chose to come to MCAD because of its location!

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

For my senior semester, I hope to push myself further with print as installation and also elaborate further on topic that I feel read now as 'vague.' I want to learn the photogravure printing process and begin to immerse myself in Graphic Design! I want to find a balance between text work and imagery, whether it be printing or painting. I would love to learn letterpress at some point and I am looking to get an MFA in print post graduation!

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

The ladies!!!

What inspires you?

I am very inspired by Glenn Ligon's installation based work (and all of his work truly) as well as the gorgeous weavings of Erin M. Riley. I am also inspired by Lorna Simpson, Alice Aycock, and many other postmodernist artists and performers.

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

My current favorite piece would have to be an in process project im working on! It's for me to know and you to find out

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

The iced mocha from the Mia, all my crocs I wear, sitting outside alone when it's nice out and listening to very loud music and not talking to anyone while doing so <3

If you had a superpower what would it be?

My quick wit!