Pierce Pake

graduate What is your major?
Duel BA in Illustration and Honors Liberal Arts

What is something you wish everyone knew about your major?
Art and illustration is a skill, not just a talent. Anyone can create beautiful art and illustrations given enough training! If you are just starting out with art, or trying to return to it, don't be discouraged. Illustration is like a language, it needs to be practiced and honed in order to create ever more beautiful pieces. 

What was your most impactful class or professor?
Every class I've taken has impacted me in some way, and nearly every professor I've learned from has positively impacted me in some way (especially the Honors professors), but in consideration to my major and career path: special shoutouts to Art professors Rachell Sumpter and Abigail Platter for mentoring me in art fundamentals. I couldn't have become a better artist without your help. In addition to SPU, The Workshop Academy and the various instructors there were indispensable in learning the skills of concept art. 

What are you excited for in your future career?
I will be working as a concept artist in the video game industry, and I am beyond excited to create ideas and artwork for simulated worlds. Creation is a goal unto itself, and I am excited to create. 

How have you grown during your time at SPU?
I've gained a larger vocabulary with which I can encapsulate my philosophical thoughts. I've learned more about myself and the world, and I've become a better artist. I've also learned biking is better than driving, talking to strangers is difficult but so worth it, and that I would sleep in Demaray again.