Most people stop painting after their childhood days of watercolors and finger paints, but sophomore Taylor Longenberger is embracing it.
The English and communications major and art minor has been painting and expressing herself through various mediums since as far back as she can remember. Longenberger started by playing the violin in high school and danced competitively for 15 years.
“I started dancing when I was three and I danced up until I was 18, but here I’m just not interested in the style that the dance team performs, I actually taught tap dancing classes for about 4 years,” Longenberger said.
Ever since her departure from dance she’s needed a new outlet for her self-expression.
“I didn’t start taking art classes until I was a junior in high school, I really regretted not taking more because I enjoyed it more than anything else,” Longenberger said.
Ever since she took her Painting One course last year, it’s inspired her to pursue earning a minor in Art.
“I love painting and if I can receive academic acknowledgement for it, I figured why not?” Longenberger said.
She looks to legends like Renoir and Vincent Van Gogh for inspiration.
“A lot of my work is like his, he doesn’t like to blend colors as much and you can see the brush strokes he makes, which I like,” Longenberger said.
When she’s home on breaks, she cam frequently be found at a coffee shop where she’s been getting a bit of attention from people passing by.
“I’ll be painting there sometimes and then I’ll turn around and there will be a bunch of little kids standing there watching me paint, it’s kinda strange but it’s also really adorable,” said Longenberger, amidst laughter.
According to her, it’s actually brought in a bit of business; people will be walking by and will approach her about painting something for them.
“I can make anything between $50-100 for a piece, I think I could ask for more but I’m unsure,” Longenberger said.
From time to time, she posts different paintings on social media sites like Facebook and people inquire about the pieces and offer money, bringing in more revenue.
Whether or not one may appreciate painting, Taylor’s style, which switches between impressionist and pop art, leaves room for anybody to enjoy.