Parting Shots

Reflections by AmeriCorps members on their service year at Imagine Art.

Through my time serving with AmeriCorps at Imagine Art, I have met really wonderful people, been inspired and challenged creatively, and had fun serving and making a difference in the Austin community!        

Alyssa Boyd

 Rapture, oil on canvas

I want to tell everyone what an honor it is to work with such talented artists!!  As a returning member, I've also been honored to witness  how AmeriCorps members mentor each artist in a way that compliments their skills,  promotes their  artistic exploration, and expands their productivity. I look forward to joining our new team and together expanding the work we've already begun.           

Nancy West

My experience being an Artist-in-Residence with Imagine Art has been life changing. This year I learned how to heal, grow, and change alongside people who are passionate in what they do, the arts. Additionally, I have learned from our clients artistic processes that to be present is enough. I feel as though I have learned skills through my residency that will be leveraged in further future frameworks.        

Bryana Iglesias

Two Ceramic Pots

I’ve had a great experience growing as an artist alongside the talented members of our community. I feel more comfortable explaining art skills and tailoring lessons to what each individual needs. As someone pursuing medical school after AmeriCorps, this year has motivated me to continue engaging with people with disabilities, both inside and outside of medical contexts. 

Sujal Manohar

Rainbow Music Collage

Being a part of the Imagine Art community has enriched my life more than any other experience in Austin. I have discovered fulfillment in my own creative practice, and I've learned skills from my fellow AmeriCorps members and Imagine Art clients alike. I applied with no teaching experience, barely calling myself an artist, and I am leaving this service year excited to come back for a second round.

Justine Nolt

Full in Two Bites

ceramic place setting from Era of Giants

Working alongside the artists at Imagine Art has empowered me to be more confident in my own artistic abilities and given me the connections and skills to grow as an artist in the "real world."   

Emily Aniunas

Saville

Succulent #3, photographic print

One of the highlights of my service year was helping to curate and install a ceramics exhibition at St. Luke United Methodist Church.  I recently heard Maestro Gustavo Dudamel in a commencement speech say something to the effect that “as artists we have an opportunity to create something beautiful to share with the world, that is our calling to create these gifts.” This was something I truly felt the night of our opening at St. Luke’s, that the exhibition was more than a show, but a gift.  It was an honor to be part of that special gift to the Austin art community.  

David Carrales

I've had such an enriching time this last service period. The great mix of talent and gifts brought by these AmeriCorps members was impressive. Looking forward to more collaborations with returning members as well as the new people who have signed up. This will be my third year to sign up for working here at Imagine Art through AmeriCorps. It's been delightful to work with our current Clients/artists and we have new arrivals on their way! 

 Jonna Jackson

Seven Eyes, Mixed Media

The Conversation, marker on paper

I feel lucky that I am able to write about artists and art, as well as create art in such a friendly, encouraging environment. So many of the artist bios I write and update have inspired me to become a better, more dedicated artist. At Imagine Art, there are many good stories to tell.  I’m motivated to create art when I’m next to folks who strive to learn and excel at their artistry.

Vic Martinez