In a community that fosters the arts of all kinds, we have a unique artist at Seattle Academy named Laney Flood ‘16. While she has worked in all mediums in the arts program, Laney most loves to work with Sharpies. She enjoys “using Sharpies because they are permanent, but also versatile.”
Often times, artists at Seattle Academy have been creating art long before they come to high school. According to Laney’s parents, she has been making art since she first picked up a pencil. Doodles and child-like scribbles soon turned to pieces inspired by personal life struggles, and the visible struggles of those in the Seattle community. Laney wants to use her artistry to “introduce topics that people tend to shy away from because of controversy or bad connotations.” She hopes to make connections with those who identify with issues her art represents, as well.
One of the main goals of the Seattle Academy arts program is to allow students an outlet for expression. However, Laney feels her works haven’t gotten as much recognition because people look for realism rather than abstract concepts in art. She has learned to value an education based off the “rules of art,” but she also enjoys breaking those rules.
Laney finds herself drawn to creative writing, because it is another form of strong self-expression. When she participated in last year’s Poetry Slam, Laney found her peers drawing similarities between her poems and her art pieces, whether they be critiques or compliments.