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Preeza Shrestha ’08 (Kathmandu, Nepal) is double-majoring in economics & business and art. Shrestha has worked as an EXCEL Scholar in the Experimental Printmaking Institute (EPI) with Curlee Holton, professor and head of art and director of EPI, for the last three years. The following is a first-person account of Shrestha’s experiences as an EXCEL Scholar.
I was recruited as an EXCEL Scholar and introduced to EPI by Prof. Curlee Holton during my first summer in Lafayette. The Experimental Printmaking Institute (EPI) studio might look like an unassuming building from the outside, but I quickly found out that it is a place where creativity flows unbound and expression of original ideas is highly appreciated. Being an art student, I was very excited at the prospect of furthering my experiences and education of art as a research scholar in such an environment and in such a unique capacity.
Within the very first months as an EXCEL Scholar, I was entrusted with a great deal of responsibilities and became an integral part of the system. I was able to learn the various aspects of printmaking and was soon able to assist in multi-dimensional artist projects. As an art student from a different country, Nepal, I was also able to expand my cultural knowledge through many captivating discussions about issues such as differences in cultures, societal norms, economic conditions, etc., with the many artists who frequent EPI, from the interesting perspective and context of art.
Things are never static or uninteresting in EPI under the dynamic direction of Prof. Holton. Even during the short period of time since I have been involved with EPI, I have had the opportunity to work closely with prominent artists, such as William T. Williams and Melvin Edwards, while witnessing an impressive range of sophisticated techniques and powerful works of art in various mediums.
One of the most gratifying aspects of this research experience has been that I am not bound to one role alone. I have been involved in academic research, applied my digital imaging skills to produce graphic prints and designs, developed advertisement materials, assisted in traditional printmaking, printed editions of art books, curated valuable artwork, helped organize workshops for visiting school students, and have given presentations on printmaking to potential students. I have come to realize that through these opportunities I have explored my potential, which has further stimulated my aptitude for analytical and creative thinking.
Lafayette has created an exceptional platform for its students to get valuable skills in the EXCEL Scholars Program. The projects I have been involved in usually demand high organizational, as well as innovative, problem-solving skills. I have also learned the value of group dynamics and effective communication through structured teamwork. I believe that my experiences as an EXCEL Scholar have equipped me with a unique set of skills necessary to excel in the professional world today.