2025/26 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Elise Simmons

How/why did you choose your major?

After taking a few classes at MCAD I fell in love with it quite quickly, even though I have been exposed to printmaking processes before in early schooling. Over the almost four years I've been here, I've found out that I appreciate the process of making over the outcome.

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

For merits, I submitted all paper-made items, the Little Necklace, Paper Wigs, and Unknown were all made from either recycled paper, handmade paper or found paper. Along with inks, paints and glue added here and there.
Little Necklace is a twenty-plus-foot-long necklace with large paper beads strung along it, at the end of each side is a clasp so you will be able to wear it.
The Paper Wigs are two separate wigs, one with wavy curls (they’ve gotten crushed over time) and the other one has liberty spikes, they both can be worn together or separately.
Unknown is a wind chime mobile covered in paper beads dip dyed in indigo dye, at the top is an open old casket, at the bottom some bells.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I just felt really drawn to MCAD after touring the place and just knew that I had to come here.

What are your plans for your senior year? And beyond?

to continue producing work

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

friends, teachers, and crazy stories

What inspires you?

right now processes

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

Drinking Tea

What's the best thing you've found on the Free Shelf?

I found "Dubious" a taxidermy kangaroo with no ears, he's my studio buddy.

Lastly, do you have a favorite question we didn't ask? Tell us and answer it!

I feel like not many people ask artists what our favorite colors are. So in this moment right now id say a crimson red.