As is common with many artists, I had an affinity for all things coloring and drawing at an early age. In elementary school I was “the class artist”, and I was more than happy to stay in from recess so I could help my teacher decorate the classroom.
Then high school happened, where I abandoned my artwork for a time. After graduation, I felt disillusioned, and decided to try art once again. I had an interview at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where I was told that there wasn’t much quality or talent seen in my work. It was suggested that I take a few art classes at a local college then try interviewing once more.
Disillusionment again! But I took the advice and signed up for a few art classes at Purdue Northwest in Hammond, IN. It was there that I met one of my most influential teachers, Prof. Mohammed. I learned a great deal during that year at Purdue. One day Prof. Mohammed asked me and a few other students to meet with him in the break room. He recommended to us that we further our art education at The American Academy of Art in Chicago. So that is just what I did in the fall of 1985.
As I signed up for the 2 year Graphic Art degree, I imagined myself landing a super-cool job at an ad agency in Chicago. Good thing for the dreaded but required Fundamentals Class, where I tried a number of different mediums and types of art. The other required class was Life Drawing, which I learned quickly in, much to the credit of my other “most influential teacher”, Mr. Bill Parks. My talent was not in graphic arts but fine arts. I changed my major to Fine Arts – Oil Painting, which added a year to my schooling. Unfortunately, due to a number of health issues, I had to discontinue attending class for the final few months. So while I do not have the tangible diploma or degree, I do have the intangible hours of study and practice that I am grateful for.
Lisa Zurawski Jones
Zurawski Jones Studio 