Final Exam Reflection Essay

Throughout the school year of 2025-2026, I have learned to paint and draw in many new materials and began to understand shape and form better. Specifically in our oil paint unit, I feel that I discovered an entirely new skill to explore. One that was much more difficult and came a lot less naturally than others, but a fun one nonetheless. I also felt very comfortable when I was sculpting and when I was abstract painting. Outside of class, I did basic studies on translating shapes I see into 2D. This has proven very useful in refining my artwork, and makes me more at ease when drawing.

I have seen the greatest growth in the pace I take when working. Before, I was overly eager to dive into a project and discover exactly what I was doing while in the moment. After this year, I have taught myself how to take it more slowly and try to learn what I am doing first, as well as research the topic beforehand.

I would like to continue improving my understanding of colors, understanding of the figure (primarily anatomy, but figure drawing as well.) and my understanding of how shapes and objects connect with one another. My basic skills relating to artwork need refining before I can utilize my materials to their full extent. I will probably do more artist studies over the summer. I need to find more art styles I am comfortable in.

Moving forward, I want to focus more on balance and technicality in my paintings. I am planning on practicing this in my summer assignments. The first project will be an acrylic painting, I am going to research common techniques and find the one I think I will be most comfortable with. I am unsure what the second project will be, yet. I am thinking I will make a crochet sculpture of some kind.