2024 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Ella Moomey

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I submitted some of my recent illustrative work that captures my process and the results of my experimentation and excitement about so many mediums. I wanted to show the range of pieces that I create and hold space for traditional and multi-media creations within a very digital world.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I was actually incredibly desperate to get out of the midwest, yet even when I visited a quiet and empty MCAD campus during the pandemic I couldn't help but feel drawn to this school and this city. MCAD's location really sold me.

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

I have so many plans for senior year and beyond! I want to continue to embrace the process-side of art-making and experiment with materials and techniques. I am also looking forward to connecting more to the art community and broader community in the Twin Cities. Art is such a powerful tool for connection and change and I am super pumped to continue to wield it.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

My friends are everything to me! My favorite part of my college experience has been meeting and connecting with other creatives and I feel so much joy being surrounded by so many talented people.

What inspires you?

I find inspiration in other forms of creation like music and writing. I have always loved to read and hear stories and I get a lot of inspiration from the lives of people around me and out in the world.

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

I can't choose one specific piece, but I have recently found a technique and practice that makes me super excited and keeps me creating. I have been loving combining traditional and digital tools; bouncing back and forth between the two in order to harness the strengths each method provides.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

Realistically, I am so obsessed with "ants on a log" which is celery with peanut butter and raisins on top. In terms of art though, I have been really into carving linoleum into these little chair stamps and sticking them all over the place!