Meet Our Students

From foundation year explorations to developing unique voices in fine arts, communications design, and illustration, our community thrives on curiosity and collaboration. Whether sculpting in the studio, experimenting with mixed media, or sketching in local parks, Pratt Munson students bring passion and perspective to everything they do. Get to know the artists who are redefining what it means to create — right here in the heart of Utica.

What kind of artwork do you enjoy doing the most?        
I really enjoy all types of painting techniques and doing mixed media work. I like experiencing and learning new media, so I'm open to everything, and I'm rarely stuck to one medium.

What work that you did are you most proud of?  
I really like this one because it incorporates everything I love: nature and vibrant colors. This piece is also huge, and it's in oils, so it tested my painting skills.

What's your favorite thing about Pratt Munson?        
The slow atmosphere. I think it's a good transition between high school and university life because it’s a different city you're not used to, so it gives you time to adjust, and I think it prepares you for the transfer to a bigger campus — Brooklyn. In a small school like this, you don't get overwhelmed by the city, and there aren't too many people to meet. Since the campus is so small, it's really cozy, and you get to be close to people really quickly and form close friendships with almost all your peers.

What have you gained from coming here?        
Drawing still life and objects. Time management skills and independence. A lot of friends!

What kind of artwork do you enjoy doing the most?       
I enjoy drawing the most because I like that it's something I can do as a serious project or just for fun. It's always nice to be able to go back to my sketchbook and draw with no pressure.

What work that you did are you most proud of?       
The work I am most proud of is a charcoal and ink study of a deer skull. This might not be my best piece, but I'm proud of it because it allowed me to step outside my comfort zone and progress in my style. Before this year, I was more focused on perfection and realism. However, my time in Visual Representation allowed me to develop a looser and more abstract stroke, which I want to imply more in my future work.

What's your favorite thing about Pratt Munson?       
My favorite thing about Pratt Munson is the community and relationships that we can build here.

What have you gained from coming here?       
Along with gaining many new skills in the arts, I have also gained new ways of finding inspiration. Being surrounded by creatives, I am always looking to my peers for inspiration and advice. Having a museum on campus, visiting exhibitions, and being in an artsy city like Utica is also very inspiring.

What kind of artwork do you enjoy doing the most?   
I sincerely enjoy sculpture the most, as I have always been a very physical person. I enjoy being able to turn something over in my hands and see how I can manipulate, change, or utilize the object, its structural integrity, and or properties. Sculpture for me is also a favorite because it's limitless in its possibilities. You can utilize many different media and make something beautiful.

What work that you did are you most proud of?   
Here is my favorite piece, Half a Wish, made with paper, fishing wire, a French horn, hula hoop, and air duct. It won a Scholastic Gold Key in the National Scholastic Art Competition and is my prized work, commemorating the loss of a close classmate.

What's your favorite thing about Pratt Munson?   
My favorite thing about Pratt Munson has to be the community. From day one, we are all set up to socialize with each other and just, in general, be social beings. They're assisting in our development not only as artists but also in our development to network and work closely with each other. It’s really unique, and it sets us up for success in this career field where knowing people can sometimes be all you need to be successful.

What have you gained from coming here?   
So far in my few weeks at Munson, I have not only gained art skills but also a new network of people, people who I am excited to grow and bond with even more.

What kind of artwork do you enjoy doing the most?  
I excel in surrealist portraiture.

What work that you did are you most proud of?  
I have a piece done on a five foot by five foot piece of wood. I painted it sophomore year of high school and it speaks to my youth, joy, and love for creativity. 

What's your favorite thing about Pratt Munson?  
I love the dining hall, the staff is friendly, the food is delicious, and we have an ice cream bar.

What have you gained from coming here? 
I have gained a deeper understanding of light and form, but more importantly I've learned about so many current artists who helped shape my style and ambition. Our monthly artist talks and talented professors help my art grow fast.