The Fall of Icarus & Art in My Life

I have always been that kid that was tempted to read or draw while other subjects were being taught. I've had an affinity towards literature and the arts since I was very young, enjoying the endless ways they could affect me, whether positively or negatively. Though I loved the arts from youth, I didn't put much time into absorbing what I was viewing or reading. My last year of high school transformed my understanding of the arts. I was in AP Literature with Ms. Sloan. She was an enigmatic, energetic woman that always pushed us to become more erudite, well-rounded participants in society. One of my favorite things about her class was the first ten minutes. As we walked in, there would be a painting or sculpture up on the projector. Everyday we got a small introduction to an influential artist in history, some of their best works, and the impact they had on the art world. Though it didn't occur to me at first, as the year progressed, I began to recognize names and styles and even specific pieces in passing. I had favorites that made me giddy when I recognized them in public. Even art I didn't recognize changed; I could now offer a perspective based on other artists' work from the era. Seeing The Fall of Icarus by Pieter Bruegel the Elder the other day in class absolutely delighted me because I came from a position of experience and fondness with the piece, all thanks to the simple ten minute lectures from Ms. Sloan's class. Going to Detroit over the weekend brought me to another level of closeness to the art around me because as I walked in the DIA, even though I was technically alone, I was among friends. I saw Rothko and Picasso and Moreau in a more personal way than I ever had before. I hope to continue you to grow my artistic knowledge so I can experience more moments of camaraderie with the greats, even though I stand in an empty room.