
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Podcast
Welcome to The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Podcast — a show for teen artists, writers, and educators.
Hosted by The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, join us as we get to know accomplished Art & Writing Awards alumni and jurors. Founded in 1923, The Scholastic Awards has inspired bold ideas in creative teens throughout the country. Each month, we'll dive deep into the many different paths these Award winners have pursued. Whether it's fighting imposter syndrome, deciding on a college major, or you're stuck with a bad case of writer's block, we'll cover each and every one of your burning questions.
As the nation's longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens, our notable alumni include Amanda Gorman, Kinsale Drake, Silvia Plath, Stephen King, Joyce Carol Oates, Andy Warhol — and you. With every episode, we hope to inspire you to keep writing, keep creating, and never give up on your dream.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Podcast
Episode 6: The Life of an Artist — Practicality vs. Passion
If you want to dedicate your life to art, chances are you have asked yourself the following questions: Do I need an art degree to be an artist? How will I incorporate my love of art into a career someday? This episode is for you, visual storytellers. Episode two of The Scholastic Awards Podcast is all about how you can thrive in the art world after you’ve won your Scholastic Award. Join us as we collect wisdom from three notable alumni who have navigated their own paths in the art world in various ways.
(1:46): James Wells is a 2001 Awards alumnus and creative leader. He currently works as an Innovative Teaching and Learning Manager at Crayola. Because of his Awards, he was offered a full art scholarship to his local college. Knowing how impactful early recognition can be, James has committed his entire career to inspiring young artists, creatives, and educators.
(24:53): Matthew Ronay is a New York-based artist who creates organic sculptures, which are carved by hand from sections of basswood. Connect with Matthew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mysteriousfog/?hl=en.
(58:53): Sasha Baskin is a practicing weaver and lacemaker. She received her BFA in drawing from the Maryland Institute College of Art and her MFA in Craft and Material Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. Baskin currently teaches at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. Sasha is also a Scholastic Awards alumna, receiving a Gold Key Portfolio Award in 2010. Visit Sasha’s website for more: https://www.sashabaskin.com/