Ashley Delgado ’19 attended the early college program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) this summer. She was a figure drawing student for two weeks in July and gained a newfound appreciation for the human body.

The most meaningful piece of work Delgado produced was for her AP Art concentration. She created an oil painting titled “Lost.” Her twelve piece concentration tells the story of a woman’s spiritual journey and finding salvation through Jesus Christ.

“The experience helped to mature my charcoal drawing skills, and taught me that the human body is really just a bunch of shapes put together,” Delgado said.

For Delgado, the best part about making art is the feeling she gets right after she finishes a piece, especially one that has taken her weeks to complete.

“I am always filled with immense satisfaction, and pride,” Delgado said.

Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh is Delgado’s inspiration. He was the first artist she learned about, and she says she is always drawn to his techniques and the vibe of his pieces. Delgado also believes everyone should see Pablo Picasso’s “The Old Guitarist” at least once in their life.

She says, “I had the opportunity to see it in person, and it was great. I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. Similarly to Van Gogh’s pieces, it almost feels as if the painting is going to move and come to life at any moment.”

Delgado’s family is very supportive of her art. Every time she brings her artwork home, her father is eager to showcase it somewhere in her house. Although Delgado doesn’t plan on becoming an artist full time, she would like to continue making art as a hobby.

Delgado advises other artists that criticism is a “good thing,” and that artists should never be offended by constructive criticism.

“Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, and to have your art represent something you’re passionate in,” Delgado said.