Allison Davison
Artist Statement
From a young age, I was surrounded by creativity. I remember watching my dad sketch characters on napkins at restaurants, and before long, I started doing the same. My mom, always involved in arts and crafts, also nurtured my creative spirit. Being immersed in such a creative environment made me want to create something of my own. I began by painting my dogs on canvases and soon filled sketchbooks with my drawings. With my family’s support, I eventually started selling my work and painting pet portraits for friends and relatives. As I grew older, my passion for art deepened, especially as I discovered the complex process behind the movies, TV shows, and video games that had always inspired me. That curiosity only fueled my eagerness to learn more. Art has always been my creative and expressive outlet, something I turned to no matter how I was feeling. The influence of my parents has been a constant source of inspiration, and I strive to reflect that in my work. I'm motivated by the desire to make my mark in the field and bring to life the kinds of creations that inspired me as a child.
My former professors, Clarissa Martinez and Ping Xu, continue to be guiding influences. As accomplished designers, they inspire me not only through their work but also through their teaching. They emphasize that there’s a place for everyone in this industry and encourage each student to find their unique path. Creating work I’m happy with isn’t always easy. I often face intense art blocks and struggle to find the motivation to create. My mind is always buzzing with ideas, but the thought of starting can feel overwhelming. I’ve found that sketching helps me break through these blocks and move forward. Scrolling through Pinterest for inspiration, with music playing in the background, is also a ritual that helps me refocus and get back on track. In pursuing my own creative path, I’m motivated by a desire to make my own mark in the world of art and design, especially in the areas of visual storytelling and character design. I hope to create work that resonates with others, just as the creations I loved as a child inspired me. It’s not always easy, and the creative process can be challenging at times, but the drive to make something meaningful keeps me pushing forward.
