SHANE DAVIS

Graduation Major: BFA in Studio Art: Painting with a minor in Art History

Marywood Clubs/Activities: Golf Team

Current Occupation: I am currently a student at Boston University in my second year of graduate study in the MFA Painting program.

1) What was your favorite part about Marywood?

Marywood felt like a second home to me (or more specifically, Insalaco felt like a second home). There was a sense of community and I never felt uncomfortable or excluded, especially among other art students. I also owe most of what I know about art and painting to the teachers that I had there.

2) Any advice for current art students at Marywood?

I picked up a piece of advice here in Boston that I think I’ll always carry with me. One of my professors always seems to answer our questions about the future with, “Just keep painting.” The painting part can be interchangeable [with other mediums] I suppose. Though, it seems obvious, I think it’s really about holding onto something that’s important to you. No matter where I end up, or what type of job I’m doing, I don’t think I’ll ever stop painting. It’s that creative impulse that I think a lot of people have, but some put it on the back burner when things get busy. Don’t ever put it on the back burner.

3) How did your art education at Marywood help your career?

The knowledge imparted on me and the support I was given by the art faculty prepared me for graduate school. With their help, I was accepted to Boston University for their MFA Painting program. When I receive my degree I will be able to teach, and the knowledge gained over two years of intense focus will hopefully allow me to enter the real world on good footing.

4) What is your favorite part about your job?

My favorite part of this job is it isn’t a “job” to me. Although I have worked as a Print Shop Assistant and a Teacher’s Assistant, I’m still a student, and my focus is making art. I spend every day in a studio surrounded by other creative people, all making things with their hands. It’s awesome to me that I get to be around people who still value the human-made.           

6) Do you have someone’s work who inspires you the most? Why? (Could be dead or alive)

At the moment, I want to say Charles M. Schulz. “Peanuts” was most likely the first art I ever appreciated, and I still do to this day. Schulz had a clear vision for his artwork and he dedicated a lifetime to it. There was a simplicity in the designs of his characters, but from that simplicity emanated such vivid life. I try to tell stories with my work, and his are a constant influence.

Featured images courtesy of Shane Davis. If you would like shanedavisart@gmail.com

 

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN STUDYING Painting?

UNDERGRADUATE: Painting is among the most ancient of human expressions. Even in the face of contemporary technology, it remains vital, pluralistic, and integral to our cultural identity. The study of painting within a liberal arts curriculum prepares you to engage the world with empathy, insight, individuality, and problem-solving skills.
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