2026/27 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Ella Ratliff

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

My high school art teacher (who is one of my biggest supporters) takes Continuing Education classes at MCAD, and recommended that I apply.

How/why did you choose your area of study?

I've always loved to draw, but found a deep passion for painting in high school!

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

The independence, and the friends I've made!

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I submitted a handful of large-scale, hyper-detailed watercolor works, as well as work I've made concerning the medieval and the surreal.

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

Put every ounce of effort I have into my senior project, graduating, and then moving out!

What inspires your creative self?

Medieval media, film scores, and my life experiences.

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

My favorite internet/pop culture reference at the moment are these meme dogs named Pibbles. I have pictures of them plastered all over my entire studio. They're just fat baby Frenchies and Pitbulls but I have a serious obsession with them.

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

I once found a full-bleed vintage Star Wars hoodie! I rarely take it off.

Ella Ratliff, Holy War