School: School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts
Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts
Home: I’m originally from the Dominican Republic, but Miami is a mini-Latin America, and that feels like home to me
Why was SMFA the right school for you?
The thing that most attracted me was its interdisciplinary program, as I think is the case for a lot of people. When I was applying to other schools, I struggled to choose just one area to major in. At Tufts, I’ve really enjoyed the freedom to explore many areas.
What I’ve especially loved is exploring the same concept in multiple ways. For example, last semester, I focused on the blurred lines between private and public space on public transportation. I took a lot of photographs of people on the train holding their phones, and I also paid attention to the conversations I overheard. Then, I put together one exhibit of words, with a focus on experimental typography, and another exhibit of photographs, with a focus on gestures and phone usage—two very different projects focused on the same concept.
What’s one thing you’ve done at Tufts that would most surprise your first-year self?
When I first got here, I felt intimidated and insecure about what I had to offer. Now, looking back at my time here, I feel proud of all I've done. My professors have played a big role in building my confidence; they gave me so much support, and their confidence in me really boosted me. They just trusted me and my work.
This semester, I was chosen to present a project I worked collaboratively on with my class at the Multiple Formats Contemporary Art Book Symposium and Fair. That’s something I could never have imagined happening when I started at Tufts: being chosen to represent the work of a whole class. Also, I never could have imagined myself speaking in public. Tufts has given me the confidence I lacked.
What’s your favorite place on campus?
The SMFA library. There’s beautiful lighting in there, beautiful plants—the space is always open and collaborative. And we can take naps there if we need to! It’s such a peaceful environment.
Complete the following sentence: “In 10 years, I will be...”
I’d love to picture myself in Spain, working on my art, preferably doing something related to multimedia and interactivity. I hope wherever I am and whatever I’m doing, I’m happy and content with my work—and I hope art-making always stays a passion of mine.
