Japan

Evan Doane’s Statement:

For me, becoming a public artist stretches far beyond the recognition and legacy that often follows; through this project, I proved to myself that having experience, although helpful, is rarely a necessity for creating unique art. 

      Prior to taking an art class at my school, I had never been confident in my ability to draw; such projects were challenging for me, demanding creativity that I struggled to produce. My doubts were only augmented through growing up with an artistically talented sister; the stunning pieces she created on a weekly basis were of a different caliber, one that was beyond my reach. Even so, I searched to replicate my own ingenuity and step away from my comfort zone of analytical thinking.

     I painstakingly designed my piece not with the intention of being selected as a finalist but to remind myself of the creative side I had suppressed for many years. Having the freedom to choose cultural motifs and present them with no particular guidelines, I viewed this as an excellent opportunity to showcase the artistic development I gained from Art I. Upon consulting with my Japanese language teacher, I drew upon every skill covered in class to create a cohesive and accurate piece that represented Japan but one that also maintained my distinctive (and perhaps amateur) drawing style.

     Having my art selected for public installation was truly a special moment for me. It removed my doubts concerning my artistic ability, the ones that stemmed from my logical mindset; it convinced me that even with minimal practice, one could yield truly unique pieces from the heart. I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to share my art with the community of Watsonville, and I sincerely hope it will inspire others to embrace their inner artist.

Ana Hudson’s Statement:

Sponsorship available

Current and Former residents of Watsonville that share this cultural heritage:

• Cantos
• Hayashibara-Wayne
• Hirokawa
• Kimara
• Kubo
• Mine
• Mizuno
• Moreno
• Ruiz

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