Studio Art major earns Arizona Artists Guild scholarship
March 18, 2024Marilyn Garcia to present winning portfolio during awards ceremony
Yuma, AZ (March 19, 2024) – Marilyn Garcia, an Arizona Western College Studio Art major, was recently awarded a scholarship from the Arizona Artists Guild for her work.
Each year, full-time students from Arizona’s universities and community colleges can apply for awards through the Arizona Artists Guild Visual Arts Scholarship Program to continue their education. Of the 10 students selected to receive scholarships this year, Garcia was one of only two community college students to be chosen. Garcia was named as the recipient of the Del Decil Scholarship Award for $1,000. This is the third year in a row that AWC students have received awards from the Arizona Artists Guild.
“I feel so honored to receive such a prestigious award,” said Garcia. “When I learned I was selected for this award I couldn’t believe it. I did not think I would receive such an amazing opportunity to share my work along with so many great artists of Arizona.”
Garcia’s artwork will be featured during the Arizona Artists Guild Presentation and Awards Ceremony on Monday, April 15, at the Arizona Artists Guild in Phoenix.
“Marilyn is a talented, dedicated individual who we at AWC art are very proud of,” said Bill Blomquist, Professor of Visual Arts-2D.
Jurors made their final selections for the awards based on the quality of art submissions as well as a provided student statement.
Garcia entered three drawings created using graphite pencils. She shared that the series of pieces dive into feminine identity and self-reflection.
“I have been into art for as long as I can remember,” Garcia said. “Creating art can be so liberating, and it is so rewarding to complete a piece and be able to share it with my community. I’m a firm believer that art can transcend languages and borders across the world, and it is what connects us. I hope my work can connect and unite people anywhere in the world.”
Garcia plans to graduate with her associate degree this spring, and will continue her artistic journey to pursue her bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University. She shared that this scholarship will go towards her tuition or any expenses that arise when she transfers to ASU.
Since its inception in 1993, the Arizona Artists Guild has awarded over $100,000 in scholarships. The Arizona Artists Guild was founded in 1928 and is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization led by volunteers dedicated to providing and promoting opportunities in the visual arts including exhibitions, education, and outreach programs.
Photos of Garcia’s winning portfolio can be found on the Arizona Artists Guild website.
Contact:
Bill Blomquist
Professor of Visual Arts-2D
Arizona Western College
Bill.Blomquist@azwestern.edu
(928) 317-6060