Leia Ivey

2019 Visual Arts Scholarship Recipient

Leia's goal is to create a positive and productive environment for artists and non-artists alike. After graduation, she envisions opening her own studio, providing her community with a welcoming space to purchase and create art. Being an independent person, Leia values the freedom to make her own decisions within her career. She plans to sell her own artwork, including prints and ceramics, while also offering rental space for other artists to work. Inspired by her mother's success in creating a similar workplace for health and wellness, Leia seeks to establish her own art-centered studio.

Participating in the program at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) holds great importance to Leia. She sees it as an incredible opportunity to focus on creating art with purpose, beyond assignments or personal satisfaction. Recognizing MICA's outstanding illustration and studio art programs, Leia believes that attending the school would benefit her in various aspects. During the summer program, she aims to concentrate on her future goals, building a professional portfolio, and learning how to promote herself as an independent artist. Leia's aspiration is to gather as many experiences and resources as possible to ensure a successful and fulfilling career as an artist.

By attending MICA and participating in its program, Leia hopes to take the first step in the right direction towards a productive and positive future. She has devoted considerable time to planning her path and believes that this opportunity will provide her with the skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities necessary for a successful artistic career.