Faculty of Design

Graphic Design

Sophia Adams

Vanitas for the Arts Student

This work is a reflection on my artistic journey as a post-secondary student in a dedicated arts college and university. The composition weaves together elements from both past and present that have helped shape me into the artist I am today.The worn-down, broken violin carries nostalgia and speaks to the structure, humility, and life habits that artistic practices instill in us over time. Flowers, a traditional element in still life with many layered meanings, represent the growth that comes with ongoing learning. The anatomical skull and film camera reflect both technical and conceptual learning at the core of arts education, pointing to the value of tradition in shaping creative development.As arts students, we learn to see the world differently and begin to notice bodies, structures, and compositions in everyday life, collecting them mentally as part of our visual practice subconsciously. The still life elements speak to our relationship with classical arts, traditional media, and the continued relevance of art history in shaping new generations of artists.The dramatic composition and chiaroscuro lighting are a direct reference to Baroque painting, which is often emphasized in art history studies and a personal favourite art movement of mine. This work is an ode to the tools, disciplines, and visual language that have guided me throughout my creative journey.