410 Forum — Arts
An Artist's Life
By Erin Armitage
Eric Dunn, a sophomore at Eric Dunn, a sophomore at The University of Northern Colorado, is on track to becoming an exceptional student and talented artist.
Dunn is working toward his own goals of having his hard work and talent noticed by the public. His artwork will be featured in the upcoming student gallery viewing starting April 8.
Dunn focuses on painting and drawing. It has been an interest of his since he was 8. He has been involved in the art program since freshman year and says he loves it. He says it’s exactly what he needs in his life right now. He is working on his student portfolio, which will show off his key talents in the student show. Dunn has a passion for painting scenery. He loves the way all the colors blend together to make the little details stand out in a painting.
“Determination and drive should be in every artist’s vocabulary. You not only need the passion to succeed as an artist but the motivation to keep going,” Dunn said.
Dunn says his motivation is being able to wake up everyday and put his emotions and thoughts on paper. He says his sketchbook is his life. His drawings are able to calm his mind and the paper really speaks out to him. Drawing is an escape path for him. It allows him to fully let go from his stressful life. Dunn says that his artwork is a reflection of who he is as a person. He is excited for his work to be displayed for the public to see.
“When Eric is not in class or at work, you can find him doodling in his sketchbook,” said Ryan Palmer, Eric’s roommate. “He relies on his drawings. Some people need friends and family to get through each day, Eric needs his sacred book of drawings.”
As a full-time student and aspiring young artist, Dunn is a hard working individual, since he spends most of his time dedicated to his art and schoolwork. He presents himself with confidence through the way he talks about life and accomplishing his goal of having his own art gallery. Like most college students, he is aware that college doesn’t come cheap. Dunn says that his family is very supportive of his goal of becoming an artist, but they don’t help pay for his education.
Dunn seems to manage 15 credit hours, a part-time job at Target, and is involved in Campus Crusade for Christ. He also devotes his time in the art studio. He spends at least five hours a week in the studio perfecting his work.
“Eric is an incredible young man. He is very talented and focused on his artwork. His work depicts meaning and structure,” said Tom Stephens, associate professor of visual arts.
Dunn says it’s a struggle trying to balance everything in his life right now, but he says it’s worth it because he’s getting closer to his goal. That’s the most important thing to him at the moment. Dunn wants to prove to his family and friends that he is able to succeed as an artist. He is determined to succeed. He says his determination and drive will carry him through the obstacles in his life.
The Eric Dunn File
• born in Denver;
• attended Northglenn High School, where he was involved in art club;
• has two older brothers;
• majoring in drawing at UNC;
• his artwork was displayed in the Oak Room Gallery from April 8-May 5.
