Sydney Corey takes the role of student-artists to new heights. In between her neuroscience and pre-med classes, Sydney seeks a creative outlet through painting. If you want to learn more about Sydney’s artistic persona and see her incredible work, then explore the interview with her below!
Tell me a little bit about yourself (where you’re from, age, major, etc.)
S: I’m from Tampa, Florida. I’m 21 years old and a junior at Vandy. I’m majoring in neuroscience!
When did you start practicing art, and how has art shaped your life?
S: I have been doing art ever since I can remember. I started talking art classes in middle school and then got to take great advanced art classes in highschool. Art plays a huge role in my life as a creative outlet for me. Being pre-med and neuroscience major, I’m constantly overwhelmed by tests, homework, extracurriculars, etc. Art allows me to take a mental break from all of that.
What typically inspires your work?
S: I’m inspired by the human body and things in nature. The organic form gives rise to a lot of my pieces. Scrolling on Pinterest also sparks a lot of my ideas and gets me excited about creating more art! Wall murals in Nashville and at home also inspire a lot of my pieces, just because of the huge scale and creativity involved in producing something so great.
Who are your biggest influences?
S: I honestly don’t know too many famous artists, so I wouldn’t say I have any sort of art role model. I do really like Peter Max’s style.
Which current art trends are you following?
S: I wouldn’t say I’m following any current art trends, but I know wall murals are very popular now so I love getting inspired by those and doing large pieces!
Out of all the pieces you’ve created, which is your favorite?
S: It’s so hard to choose but my favorite would probably be my most recent, the 36” x 48” acrylic of the women underwater (Sinking Spirals). I loved painting it because while I had a real picture to reference, I added a lot of my own flare/style to it with the spiraling water contrasting her skin. This is also one of the bigger pieces I’ve done so I love the scale of it.
What’s your dream job?
S: My dream job would be a doctor of some sort, maybe a dermatologist or pediatrician. While I love art, I have a passion for science and I enjoy keeping art as an outlet and relaxing space for me. Art has a special place in my heart and I will definitely still continue to do it one the side.
Moving forward, where do you see your artwork going?
S: Although I don’t see myself pursuing a strictly artistic career, I will definitely always be doing art. I hope to do bigger and more creative pieces in the future, eventually a wall mural if I can! I’ve also done some medical illustrations in the past, which was a great harmony between my love for science and art. I also use a good amount of math while painting, in order to scale measurements and create accurate proportions, so I’m hopeful that I’ll continue using art with a balance of science/math.
Vanidy Fair 