Erin Smith

Art has always been a huge part of my life. ​ Since I can remember I have been drawing. I had quite a large obsession with mermaids back then, so I would draw them all the time. ​ Even when all we did was finger painting, I loved going to art class. ​ After that, I fell in love. ​ The idea that I could see a beautiful mermaid in my mind and then put her on paper was mesmerizing. ​ One thing that has especially inspired my art is films. ​ I have always loved the uniqueness and creativity of shots and how they affect the viewer. ​ Another thing that has influenced my ideas is music. ​ Since I can remember, I always had an immense passion for music. ​ I would listen to songs, imagine, and then draw. ​ It has helped me grow as an artist and person. ​ While movies and music heavily inspire my art, the most important thing that inspires me is people. ​ That has been my answer since I started drawing. ​ Life in general is extremely inspirational. ​ Seeing others' emotions, uniqueness, and talents, but also their faults, gave me my love of realism. ​ Overall, art has given me the chance to spread my fears in a way that has helped me cope with them. ​ It has also given me the chance to express myself and my ideas in a way that feels very gratifying. ​ Mostly, my art has helped me tremendously when no one else could.