Junior Els Morris is an avid artist in our community, having explored many forms of art and produced numerous works during her time at KO. This month, we honor Els as she has grown immensely as an artist both on and off campus.
When it comes to experience, Els has had it all. She started creating art as a child, enjoying all genres and styles she was exposed to. Els tried to attend as many art classes as she possibly could. The first art class she attended was in the KO Middle School with Middle School art teacher Katherine Nicholson. “Although I started off with just Middle School experience, I always loved art,” Els said. Els took Ceramics, Painting, Drawing and Printmaking, all in her time at the Middle School.
When Els moved on to the Upper School, she wanted to pursue her passion for art. She discovered her preference for freeform art, free from standard style or convention, at the Upper School with art teacher Scott Mcdonald. “I love the freedom of art because I feel as if the creative work that is being produced is truly unique to each individual person,” she explained. As her art skills developed, Els adapted advanced artistic techniques and now applies them to her own work.
In these past years, Els has produced truly impressive accomplishments as an artist. One of her most memorable pieces is a painting she made of the First House on campus that sold at auction for $2,500. She even got the opportunity to go out of her comfort zone when she produced a creative abstract painting that is currently hanging up in the gallery.
Els is extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to attend the myriad art classes offered at KO. Believing that art is for everyone, Els strongly encourages novice artists to join any art class available to them. “The art room at KO is a place where everyone is free to express themselves through their work,” she said.
Currently, Els is in Portfolio Prep, a year-long class that she considers her favorite. “Portfolio Prep helps me to see all of the art I have created during my high school career, and seeing how far I have come is amazing.” At the conclusion of the class, Els will have a digital portfolio of her work highlighting her personal creative process.
Els’ artistic passion is an inspiration for all of us in the KO community, and we can’t wait to see what lies ahead for her!
