Looking back on my summer, I have gained so much new insight into the process of research, especially in relation to artistic work.

In learning new information in my classes, I have often felt as if the questions were never-ending. The proposal of new theories will always lead to more questions–more possibilities of research areas–as the world is constantly growing and changing, and us humans alongside it. This is honestly overwhelming–I feel as if there is always so much more to do. In planning for this summer, I knew I wanted to investigate my experience with identity and expression, incorporating experiences from marginalized communities surrounding the pressure of conformity. Although I deeply love the connection between physical material and emotional experience in art, I find it difficult to break the boundary in going from all of my research notes and thoughts to beginning to physically create. However, learning how to work through this process was very valuable, and having the support of so many other artists and researchers allowed me to experience a diversity of techniques and processes. I found much support through the Studio Arts community, especially my mentor Lenore Thomas, as I was able to gain much feedback (and encouragement) from all of them. I also strengthened my understanding of different areas of research and disciplines through learning about their work and seeing their various processes of creating art. Through this experience, I have developed a better understanding of the trial-and-error aspect of research, even though I have definitely already had a taste in basic science research. I have witnessed ( not for the first time) how debilitating perfectionism can be, and how one of the biggest part of the research process is learning how to just begin your work while accepting the inevitability of changing and revising.

Moving into the fall semester, I hope to apply this understanding to my future research projects! I am planning on taking many art classes in the upcoming year, so I intend to expand my knowledge of art styles and different media through experimentation. I also do not wish to view this project as complete: my feelings, experiences, and past art projects will serve as the foundation for future projects, as unfinished ideas that can continue to be thought about, researched, and developed!