Grayson Maxwell
Rutherford County Schools
Fernanda Morelos-Gomez is a senior at Oakland High School whose work has been selected for the 2022 TN Young Artists Show. Five students have been selected to exhibit her work, which is on display at the Frist Museum until February 2023.
Frank Bo, a visual arts instructor in Auckland, describes Fernanda’s art as “personal” and “diverse.” In this first edition of #RCSArtsandAthletics, Fernanda answers questions about his own art and philosophy.
Q: Why do you like art? What time did you start?
A: My name is Fernanda Morelos-Gomez and I am a senior in high school. I want to graduate this year and go to art college. I don’t know where, but I think it’s MTSU. I really enjoy sharing my happiness when I see something visually interesting. So, just expressing my feelings through art is a kind of solace. These are activities that you do when you are alone or with someone. I really enjoy it and have been since I was a kid. Everyone starts drawing as a child, but I started drawing when she was 11 years old.
Q: How would you describe your art?
A: I have always liked drawing with pencils and graphite. But lately I’ve become addicted to drawing and colored pencils, so I think I like colored pencils the most. But I like layering it because I mix it with paint. There is no set medium that I use. I like to combine them sometimes. Targets vary by project. Sometimes I focus on myself and what I want to see or express, but more often than not it’s for someone else. I also like to put out and make for someone.
Q: When did you first hear about submitting to Frist?
A: Mr. Baugh was the first to talk about this opportunity. He helped me through the process. I think I entered about 7 songs, but I didn’t expect much. I just went in because I wanted to. But I am really excited. I’m glad I did. This was for IB and AP programs only and was open to anyone taking these advanced classes.
Q: What does this particular piece mean to you?
A: Well, I wanted to convey nostalgia. I think it’s a very strong feeling because it’s irreversible and it’s a more personal feeling. Not everyone finds everything nostalgic. People have memories and things that make them feel nostalgic, so this work makes me feel nostalgic. I used to play outside when I was a child, so I got bored quickly. Recreating that feeling through my siblings is kind of… It’s like a generation has gone by – it’s been passed down. I am relieved to know that
