New York Week 1: I’ve first heard of the School of Visual Arts when I took my one and only design class in college as my elective. I’m the only Computer Science major in a class of junior information design students. I saw a bunch of girls in one corner gushing over the SVA course book that was sent to them straight from New York.
I fell in love with the school when I learned they have a design for Social Innovation course. It wasn’t specifically about visual arts but was still all about how creativity, communications and design strategy can impact communities. The masters course was too expensive (even if I sell my car, laptop and kidneys) and I saw that there was a summer program on it. I told myself I’m going to take this program someday, no matter what it takes.
19 year-old Roxy would be so proud because yes, I’m finally here! It took a lot of planning (especially financially haha) but if you set the right timings and I didn’t take the design for social innovation program, but took the Studio Arts program instead because I want to be better in the craft first before learning how to apply it to create impact. I’m with a few college students and some fresh graduates, making me one of the older students in class, but I always remember one of SVA’s famous posters you can see on their building: “it’s never too late to get where you are going.”
I was often sad a few years back then for not having the guts to pursue the creative path. I beat myself up for it, but I recently learned that we have to respect our own timing. There are so many factors (especially responsibilities) that come in to play when we make life decisions. I’m glad that now through this program I am taking steps in learning more about what I’m passionate about.
The first week of class is all about the creative process. We’ve taken a lot of design challenges and brainstorm activities that made me realize a lot about myself and how I think. An artist’s identity is one of the most important things that you have to build and i’m finally getting even just a glimpse of that through class.
By the time the clock strikes 4 and we are dismissed, we all rush outside the school to experience the city, of course! I love seeing new places but to study while travelling is such an enriching experience. This is such a great way for me to have a break and learn more about myself and the craft I’m deeply passionate about. Here, I am a child with eyes filled with wonder. I’m always excited to learn design and experience the city that celebrates it a lot. This place has so much respect for the arts and you can see how much the people here have grown because of such a rich culture and environment.
Here are some of the photos from my first week and I want this to be sort of a digital journal so that I will not forget, and for my family and friends who I can also share this great adventure of mine with in a busy, beautiful city we call New York.
NY Skyline from New Jersey.
The SVA residences where I’m staying is near Madison Square and the famous flat iron building!
My roommate Emilijia and I decided to just enjoy NY’s architecture and walked the whole of 5th avenue.
At the end of 5th avenue was George Washington Park.
We were only a few blocks away from Shake Shack as well!
My classmates Emilijia and Eusela enjoying Gelato from Eataly!
The gorgeous New York Public Library. Too beautiful I can stay inside the whole day.
Finally – School of Visual Arts!
One of the highlights this week – visiting the High Line. An old train track transformed into a simple but great park.
This cute family was kind enough to take a group shot of me and my classmates!
We were just in time to catch the sunset.
A must – artichoke pizza!!!
Life bucket list achievement over the weekend: Watched my favorite story of all time on broadway. I’ve been waiting for this day!
What an amazing actor. Probably the best who ever took on the role of Jean Valjean.
Grand Central Station’s sky is a work of art.
You’re not really in New York if you don’t go to a museum. Had to go to the Museum of Modern Art first.
Picasso.
Van Gogh – who had so many fans at the museum.
What. a. week.
