FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY
My name is Emelia Knarr and I am currently finishing my MFA in Media Design at Full Sail University. Coming from a small town in Missouri, art was not originally my first passion (though, my mother says I have always been a creative). My first and foremost love was science – something I try to incorporate into all of my work. I did my bachelor’s at SCAD in sequential art, minoring in illustration, where I found love for the human form and mind. However, furthering my education has allowed me to apply more logic to my work and showcase this work in a professional, design-savvy manner.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
Browsing digital archives from museums, observing fan made media, and reading comics! I love keeping up with modern – and not-somodern – media as a way to see into other people’s minds and lives. It makes me feel hopeful and gives me wicked ideas! I definitely recommend the MET’s digital archive; their fashion pieces are phenomenal.
WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN?
Character or environment design – whether that’s for movies, exhibits, props, or doing comics in the future… as long as I’m creating something new for someone who will love it, I’ll be happy.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
Patience! Not with others, but for myself. If I ever find myself looking at a project and think “there’s no way,” I have to remind myself… I went through design school! I can do anything now.
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?
I greatly admire Keith Haring, Skottie Young, and Frida Kahlo. Haring, for his art style that is deceptively simple but symbolically loud. Young, for his work in the Wizard of Oz franchise and his expressive style, and Kahlo for her spirit and determination. Her resolve even in pain motivates me to keep my own.
