When most kids wait for their college acceptance letter, they either receive a yes or a no. For the art student, a more profound change happens. They are no longer just students; they are ~art students~. People are confused and intrigued by the art student. A lot of them consider the art students stupid because they're wasting time and money and then will receive no job. However, most people don't know that art schools caters to a variety of careers including animation and architecture. I mean, someone has to do those jobs too? Not everyone has to be a lawyer or a doctor. As a person who is made uneasy by the disgusting, I would make a terrible doctor. Just like in all other majors, personalities can vary. However, when people think of art students, a certain stereotype that includes kombucha and thrift store clothing usually comes to mind. Here is a list of art school stereotype experiences that are common to the art student.
1. People Think You Can Wrap
I'm pretty sure that some two year olds can wrap presents better than I can. Since starting art school in the fall, people now think that everything I do is beautiful and artful. This is Not True. My family was very disappointed. I have and will always stick to the gift bag.
2. People Think You're a Photographer
I was asked multiple times over break to take pictures for people. When their pictures did not turn out well, they said "You're supposed to be good at this kind of thing!" Photography is it's own major! That is like asking a Math major to list all the bones in the body.
3. People Ask How Your "Art" is Going
Most people don't realize that art school is just like all the other colleges with majors and concentrations. I always get asked some vague question about how my art is going by an acquaintance that has no idea what art school actually is. I give my "I hate you smile" and my fake laugh and continue on with my life.
4. People Assume that Art School is All Play and No Work
When I got home from school all the regular college kids were asking me if I had fun sitting around all quarter. My professors expect me to do 4-6 hours of work per class.
5. People Always Tell You that You Look "Artsy."
I've never dressed conventionally, but now people look at me and say, "That hat is so artsy." Note: I had this hat before I started art school.
6. People Tell You How to Make Your Art Better.
I understand that everyone is entitled to their opinion, but if you are not trained in design and other related topics and I have not asked, I don't appreciate your critique.
7. People Ask You to Draw Stuff.
First of all, not all art students can draw. Film majors, do they need to know how to draw? No. Second, do I know how to draw an Irish Setter? No.
