Grambling State University is a melting pot of diverse students from across the country with a variety of talents. One of those students is artist, Hailey Noel. Noel is a freshman nursing major, from the small town of Grand Coteau, La.
Noel has been interested in art from a young age.
“Ever since I was young, I have always been very artistic and creative as a child. I have been interested in art for as long as I can remember,” Noel said.
She said growing up in a small town contributed to her passion for art because she uses it as a freedom of expression.
“Growing up in a small town, there were not too many children to play with and I never really knew how to socialize or verbally express myself to anyone so art was my way of speaking out,” Noel said.
During her freshman year of high school, Noel truly started perfecting her craft and began to take art more serious.
“I did not really get deep into drawing and painting until my freshman year of high school. I took four art classes and that helped me enhance my skills,” Noel said.
Noel enjoys doing different forms of art.
“I love to paint more than drawing. It has been difficult because without any type of painting supplies with me on campus, I have been working on my sketching a lot more,” Noel said.
Although she has created many pieces of artwork, her favorites are the ones where she uses many bold colors.
“My favorite piece of artwork would have to be my bold and colorful self portrait. It took a lot of time and patience but it turned out really good in the end,” Noel said.
Noel enjoys being an artist because of how she can use her skills to express herself.
“Honestly, I love being an artist because it gives me the opportunity to turn my thoughts into a reality. I really appreciate all the recognition and feedback I get from other students because that is part of what keeps me going,” Noel said.
Noel said there is something special about taking a vision in her mind and making it come to life.
“All the feedback makes me want to create work even more. I take all criticism because it will help me improve my work. I believe there is always room for me to get better,” Noel said.
Although Noel mainly does drawings and paintings, she also customizes accessories like hats, jackets, shoes and jeans.
She said anyone interested in art should be open to new ideas.
“It is okay to step out of your comfort zone and be able to grow and move forward,” Noel said.
Noel encourages anyone who is interested in purchasing a piece of her artwork to contact her via Twitter @Shabooka3 or by email at noelhailey77@gmail.com.