At UIUC, first-year art and design students have the opportunity to participate in the Takeover Exhibition, where we get to showcase our work all throughout the Art & Design building—literally anywhere we want, even the bathrooms! It’s a fun and unique way to display our creativity, and it’s a great way to kick off the year. You can learn more about this exhibition here.
For my display, I chose to feature four photos from a Jerry Uelsmann-inspired project. The photos had a dreamlike, surreal quality—vividly layered and altered images that created a sense of mystery and intrigue. The vibe was atmospheric, almost otherworldly, blending familiar and unfamiliar elements in unexpected ways. Each image was carefully composed to evoke emotions of wonder and curiosity, pulling the viewer into a world of imagination.
I’m really proud of these photos, as I feel they represent a pivotal point in my journey as an artist. These works were among the pieces that I submitted for my college application, and I truly believe they played a significant role in getting me accepted into UIUC. It’s rewarding to see how my work has evolved since then, but these photos hold a special place for me as they were the foundation of my college experience.
What made this exhibition even more meaningful was the recognition I received as a first-year student. It was validating to see my work appreciated so early in my academic journey. It’s encouraging to know that the hard work and creative energy I put into my art is being noticed, and it gave me the confidence to continue pushing boundaries as I grow as an artist. The Takeover Exhibition was a fantastic opportunity to share my work, and it was a reminder of how much I’ve already learned in just a short time at UIUC.
