2024 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Roman Zych

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

Work 1, Sculptor: James Church
James Church is an incredibly talented sculptor whose works are renowned for their intricate details and powerful emotional resonance. However, beneath the layers of bronze and steel that define his creations, there lies a deeper story – one that explores the trials and challenges that have shaped him as an artist.

Work 2, Life Doesn’t Frighten Me
I used live-action silhouettes with animations to create a visual adaptation of Maya Angelou's famous poem 'Life Doesn’t Frighten Me’. Bright-colored backgrounds and shadowy figures illustrate what hides in the dark and the defiance to challenge it.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I came to MCAD to learn about filmmaking, animation, history, and entrepreneurship. MCAD emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and is located in a city with a thriving arts scene and film community.

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

My creative vision centers on establishing my own studio to produce films and write stories that capture the essence of the human experience. I believe great stories, whether about a small business owner or an artist, have the power to illustrate the universal struggles and triumphs that make us human. By focusing on the meaningful narratives of the ordinary, I aim to create work that resonates deeply and inspires audiences to see the humanity all around them.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

My favorite things: -Meeting a diverse body of talented people. -Teachers who are knowledgeable and give useful feedback. -Having the campus right next to Eat Street is also great. :)

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by great human stories. Also: Ken Burns’ haircut Robots Godzilla Aliens History The meaning of life Freedom of speech.

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

I directed and produced a mini-documentary about bronze sculptor James Church. Creating this film was a pivotal moment, as it helped me truly grasp the power of individual experience in storytelling. When life is unyielding, what we make, build, and construct can save us. And as the film reveals, having a good dog certainly helps as well.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

I’ve been rewatching the original Avatar the Last Airbender with my father. It’s a delight to share the experience with him. The beauty of the series is awe-inspiring. I think I could watch it over and over and continue to learn.

Lastly, do you have a favorite question we didn't ask? Tell us and answer it!

If you are lucky enough to be able to make and produce films how will you make a living? One of my biggest challenges is figuring out how to sustain myself financially while maintaining artistic integrity. If I'm fortunate enough to make and produce films, how will I turn that into a viable living? It's uncertain, but for now, I'm letting my excitement and desire to learn guide me. I hope to find jobs that allow me to continue developing my skills. If I can keep improving and honing my craft, I have to believe it will all work out in the end, even if the path isn't clear yet.