WELCOME TO MY BLOG!
WELCOME TO MY BLOG!
a mix of art school diaries, design work in progress, and disney park magic
999 Secrets: Behind the Scenes of Disney’s Haunted Mansion
Step behind the cobwebs of Disney’s Haunted Mansion with me as I share everything I learned during my exclusive Disney Programs backstage tour. From petting Lucifer the ghostly bird to discovering the truth about the Hatbox Ghost and hidden holiday overlays, this tour revealed secrets most fans never get to see. Here’s what it’s really like to become an honorary caretaker of the Haunted Mansion.
Drawing Olympus: My Percy Jackson Fantasy Perspective Piece
For my Drawing I class at SCAD Atlanta, I created a Percy Jackson–inspired two-point perspective piece that blends modern New York architecture with ancient Greek mythology. From learning how horizon lines affect perspective to challenging myself with a labyrinth, this project pushed me to combine technical drawing skills with creative storytelling.
Going Back for a Second Disney College Program
I’m back for my second Disney College Program, and it already feels magical. In this post, I share why I returned, how my first program changed my life, and what makes Disney so special to me. From love to lifelong friendships, Disney will always be home.
Do You Really Need Express Pass for Epic Universe?
Wondering if you really need Express Pass for Universal’s Epic Universe? My mom and I spent 12 hours in the park, rode every ride, watched every show, and still had time for dinner—without Express. Here’s how we did it.
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome as an Artist
Imposter syndrome is a struggle many artists face, often intensified in creative environments where comparison feels unavoidable. During a study abroad program in Italy, the challenges of self-doubt collided with the pressure of drawing alongside experienced fine arts majors. Through guidance, encouragement, and the reminder to embrace individuality, the experience became not only about developing technical skills, but also about learning to see personal strengths as valuable and unique.
Learning to Push Values: A Charcoal Still Life Journey
This Drawing I project at SCAD Atlanta combined composition, placement, proportion, contour, cross contour, and shading to build a 24x18 charcoal still life. Through sighting, measuring, and sketching, the process emphasized accuracy, balance, and expression. The work highlights the importance of pushing values to create stronger contrast and more dynamic results.
Celebrating 30 Years of “A Goofy Movie” with Disney Programs
A Goofy Movie’s 30th anniversary brought fans behind the scenes with Bill Farmer, Jason Marsden, and Kevin Lima, sharing stories, inspiration, and a heartfelt celebration of this Disney classic
Exploring Form Through Cross Contour Drawing
Learning about cross contour lines takes drawing beyond simple outlines and into the world of three-dimensional form. By practicing on everyday objects and focusing on composition, placement, and proportion, you can begin to create artwork that feels more realistic and true to life. This project combined all of these skills, transforming basic shapes into structured, lifelike drawings.
Nature and Neverland with William Morris: A Color Theory Study
This Color Theory project at SCAD focused on studying William Morris and translating his romantic patterns into a contemporary triptych. Inspired by Disney’s Neverland, the piece demonstrates the Bezold Effect, where colors shift in appearance depending on their surroundings. Printed as three panels for class critique, the work highlights the power of color to shape both mood and narrative.
Racism in Interracial Relationships: Hidden Biases, Judgment, and Public Perceptions
Racism in interracial relationships often shows up in subtle but powerful ways—through hidden biases, judgment from family and friends, and public perceptions. From offhand comments to outright disapproval, couples can face challenges that go far beyond their personal connection. By recognizing these biases and understanding their impact, we can begin to create more inclusive and supportive spaces for love in all its forms.
Why Should Every College Student Take a Gap Year?
Taking a gap year can be one of the most valuable choices a student makes, offering the chance to travel, gain new skills, and learn more about themselves outside the classroom. During my own gap year, I discovered new passions, built confidence, and realized how important it is to explore life before diving straight into a career. With endless opportunities available—from volunteering abroad to trying out different jobs—a gap year can give you experiences that shape both your future and your sense of self.
Once Upon a Golden Birthday: My 22nd at Disney World
For my 22nd (and golden!) birthday, I celebrated in the most magical way possible: at Disney World. My brother Micah and I started the day exploring Animal Kingdom before heading to EPCOT to ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. We ended the evening with a beautiful group dinner at the Grand Floridian, the perfect finale to a truly unforgettable day.
Comparing The Cruel Prince and Harry Potter: A Look at Sexuality, Gender, and Non-Magical People
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black and J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series both transport readers into rich fantasy worlds, but they handle representation in very different ways. This post explores how Black expands on themes of gender, sexuality, and inclusivity, offering a contrast to Rowling’s limitations.
Stained Glass Storytelling: Visual Design Systems Project
For my Visual Design Systems class at SCAD, I created a stained glass window inspired by my own fairytale love story. The panels tell the story of meeting the love of my life at Disney World, starting our relationship, and saying “I love you,” all tied together with elements of fire, water, and Disney magic. Through varying line weights, color, and composition, I translated these memories into a unified design system that balances narrative and aesthetic.
Designing the Future with Modular Architecture Models
Inspired by the futuristic spirit of Tomorrowland and the innovative design of Spaceship Earth, I set out to create a modular system of architectural models that felt immersive and cohesive. Each piece was built from hand-cut triangular units, designed to connect and expand into imaginative structures that could exist in a larger story world. The project became an exploration of how architecture can transport people into another place and time, blending creativity with functionality.
Designing the Reading Experience: A Complete Typographic Transformation
For my Typography I final project at SCAD Atlanta, I redesigned and produced a complete book using only typography, black and white, and simple shapes. This included creating a new cover, typesetting a chapter, binding the book by hand, and photographing the finished piece. What began as the most intimidating project of the quarter became the one I’m most proud of, blending research, design, and craftsmanship into a fully realized book.
Can You Really Drink Around the World at EPCOT by Yourself?
Ever wondered if you should try drinking around the world at EPCOT on your own? From starting the day with Voodoo Doughnuts to riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and trading pins, I share the highs, the laughs, and whether the challenge is really worth it solo.
Designing With Hierarchy Through Restraint
Festival Hierarchy, a Typography I project at SCAD, tasked students with making sense out of nonsense using only type and grids. The strict guidelines eliminated color, multiple typefaces, and decorative elements. The project highlighted the importance of hierarchy in effective design.
From Minions to Mummies: Micah’s First Universal Trip
Micah’s first trip to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure was filled with park-hopping excitement, first-time thrills, delicious eats at CityWalk, and sweet treats from Voodoo Doughnut. From start to finish, it was a day packed with laughter, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
Soft Opening of Disney’s New Starlight Nighttime Parade
From thrills at Hollywood Studios to dinner at the Polynesian and a surprise soft opening of Magic Kingdom’s brand-new Starlight parade, day two of our Disney trip was packed with magic and memories. We saw Villains: Unfairly Ever After show, rode Tower of Terror twice, and explored Galaxy’s Edge before ending the night with an unforgettable first look at Disney’s newest nighttime spectacular.