Ashley Caldaro (Class of 2018)
Blogger Role: Ceramics
Major: Art Therapy
Minor: Painting & Art History
I chose Marywood because the small school atmosphere made me feel more comfortable, and I like that I see the same faces everyday. It’s location is great, and the campus is beautiful. The art department is amazing, and my major isn’t offered at too many other schools. Marywood was the perfect choice.
I am majoring in Art because Art Therapy has always been an interest of mine. It combines my passion of art and my desire to help others. Expressing myself through art has always helped me through hard times, and I can’t wait to help others do the same.
When I’m not in class, I’m usually working in the ceramics studio, painting, throwing on the wheel, or out shopping. For me, throwing on the wheel provides so much relaxation, and its my “me” time, which is definitely important. Even though a lot of my classes are art based, I still feel the need to do creative things in my spare time, even if its not for a class.
My favorite art class so far has to be a tie between my ceramics class and any of my painting classes. They’re all so enjoyable for me! I was always drawn to painting and drawing, more of the two dimensional aspects of art. But since coming to Marywood, I’ve found a passion for three dimensional art as well, especially ceramics. With that being said, I can’t chose just one.
The coolest thing I’ve done at Marywood so far was participate in The Empty Bowls Project last semester with Zeta Omicron, the art honor society at Marywood. We spent some of our Saturdays in the ceramics studio throwing dozens of bowls at a time. When we got all of the bowls glazed and fired, we then packaged them up and sold them at First Friday Scranton. All of the proceeds went to Meals on Wheels. It was such a fun thing to be a part of.
When I graduate, right after undergrad, I am planning to go straight to graduate school. After that, I hope to work with elderly people diagnosed Alzheimer’s as an Art Therapist. I’ve always been interested in Art Therapy but I’ve just recently chosen this population to work with. But, as long as I get a job in the field I’ll be happy!
I’d recommend the Art program at Marywood because I can’t think of any reason I wouldn’t recommend the Art program! The professors are all extremely supportive, and the art department is more like a family. Everyone is always talking and inspiring each other. The atmosphere sets you up to succeed.