If you walk past room 279, you’ll most likely see junior Lily Donahue hunched over a cup of coffee and a canvas.
Donahue is a talented artist who excels in multiple mediums. She enjoys focusing on nature, and often walks around Lake Accotink to gather inspiration for her artwork.
“I think it’s really cool to capture something so ever-changing in a still frame,” said Donahue.
In October, AP Art traveled to Luray Caverns to observe the cave formations and take photos to inspire their chalk pastel or charcoal artwork.
“The field trip really helped me to determine my portfolio theme, the interaction and relationship between rocks and water,” she said.
Creating a portfolio is a key component for art classes, especially for students considering career paths in art. Donahue is interested in working for an art museum or an art magazine.
Donahue takes Portfolio Prep, a class which allows time for students to build their individual portfolios. The final exam for AP Art includes a portfolio review, and the art is also a major part of the Governor’s School application process.
Governor’s School is a state-run summer program, which offers students who excel in certain subjects a unique pre-college experience where they can immerse themselves in an environment of students like themselves and gain valuable insight. This year’s School for the Visual arts is at Radford University.
Art teacher Katherine Rehm has had Donahue as a student since 2012. “Lily has made a huge jump from last year,” said Rehm.
“Governor’s School is very, very competitive and prestigious, and Lily is one of our two candidates.”
Donahue and junior Julia Patrick are both candidates for the impressive program. In addition to being an AP Art student and Governor’s School prospect, Donahue is an executive board member for the National Art Honor Society.
“I help think up new ideas of community service projects to do with the club and plan meeting dates,” said Donahue. NAHS is currently planning to visit an elementary school and paint them a mural.
Donahue also uses her gift to make money on the side. She often posts photos of her art on social media, which draws the attention of other students.
“My first piece sold for about twenty dollars, and then I sold another for fifty,” she said.
Sophomore Sarah Strohecker was one of Donahue’s clients. Strohecker noticed Donahue’s work on twitter, and messaged her for a piece.
“She was very professional and she contacted me through the entire process making sure I liked it,” said Strohecker.
Donahue’s talent and drive have helped her to make an impression and jump start her career.
“Art is one of the most rewarding hobbies you could ever have,” said Rehm.