What if homework assignments weren't papers, but a painting – and grades were based on the creative mind rather than facts? That is the reality of art majors. Even though their time at Western Washington University is unconventional compared to most college students, their work is every bit as meaningful and rewarding.
Scout Despain, a fourth year who is studying studio art, was first inspired by her high school art teacher to take her creative passion and turn it into a career. Since starting at Western, she has created conversations through her art – often commenting on things such as morals, animal testing and women's bodies.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you when you’re working on a project?
After having a good breakfast and lots of coffee, I arrive at the studio around 11 a.m. and work for a straight four to five hours. After having some food, I typically work for another three to five hours and then go home for the day. It doesn’t sound too glamorous, but it’s a lot of collaborating with other people and feeling inspired by what they’re doing. The majority of what I have learned has been through my peers.
Q: Is there a certain time you need to leave the studio at night?
From my understanding, no. I have known people to pull all-nighters and I myself have been in the studio as late as 1 a.m. At least for the ceramic studio, if you have access to the space, you can be there for as long as you want.
Q: What is the atmosphere like when you’re in the studio late at night?
It's fun to be there so late! You're usually by yourself and definitely get into the mode. Plus, you can play whatever music you like.
Q: Do these long hours in the studio teach you anything about yourself?
Absolutely. I've got grit. For the longest time, especially being at a university, I have always viewed homework as writing an essay. But being in the studio, and having a normal day last about eight hours, sometimes makes me feel like I’m doing more homework than the average student. But it feels justifying and like I belong here. For the longest time, I was around people who belittled the arts and didn’t view it as work. So now, being around the people I want to be around makes me feel like I have a community.
Q: Can anyone work at the studio?
The studio is for majors only. You would have to apply to the art department and if you get accepted, you can start taking classes. There are a couple classes a quarter that are for non-majors but they do fill up quickly. If you’re interested in ceramics, Western does offer a clay club, but it does have a long waiting list. But if you are a newcomer to Western who wants to get into clay, you should apply to the club and eventually move up the waitlist. From there, you pay a flat fee and have access to the studio for four hours a week.
Q: Since access is limited, do you feel extra responsibility or motivation to make the most of your time there?
Oh absolutely. So much of the technology and tools are expensive and require a huge amount of energy and money. Having complete access, plus people who are so knowledgeable on how to use the tools, is what makes me stay for nine hours a day. The likelihood of having an opportunity like this outside of university is very slim and inspires me to use it to my fullest potential.
Q: Is there a sense of community at the studio?
Even though everyone is very nice, it was hard for me to find my community at first. I eventually got into a sculpture class and realized that sculpture people are for me because they’re loud and have so much excitement. I really feel like everyone can find their community within Western’s art department.
Q: What is something that happens in the studio that people would never guess?
There is so much heartbreak within the creation of art. There is a lot of pain, agony, and sweat. 90 percent of the time you're going to fail, but the 10 percent is what keeps you going because it feels so good when you finally get it. That's what I love about ceramic people, they have grit and burning passion to make it work.
Melody Marichalar (she/her) is a campus life reporter who is majoring in news/editorial journalism and minoring in creative writing. When she's not writing, Melody enjoys anything fashion related, traveling and striking up conversations with those around her. You can reach her at melodym.the front@gmail.com.
