"I'm doing what I've waited all my life to do: creating, exploring my artistic passion, & surrounded with wonderful mentors."
Lorraine Franco is completing her BFA in Ceramics, Painting, and Sculpture with a minor in Art History. Before coming to Miami she lived in Milan, Italy for three years working in fashion design. She considers her greatest accomplishments while at the University of Miami to be her art work and the amazing connections she has made.
Everything truly, but if I had to choose, it would be that I'm doing what I've waited all my life to do: creating, exploring my artistic passion, and surrounded with wonderful mentors.
What accomplishments or activities while at the UM College of Arts & Sciences are you most proud of?
I've spent the last 3 years basically living in the art department, I think my greatest accomplishment has been my work, and even more so, the amazing connections and friends I've made with everyone around the studio. I've learned so much from all the grads and professors, this experience has been invaluable!
Who or what influenced your A&S education the most? How or why?
I can't really choose a specific thing or person. All professors here are way beyond amazing. They have all made me fall in love with their classes, and have inspired me in the most surprising ways. Of course, I end up spending most of my days in the studio, so I must say that I am especially grateful for professors Kyle Trowbridge, Brian Curtis, Ivan Albrhet, Jenna Efrein, Gerardo Olhovich, Billie Lynn and, of course, Carlos Prado. They have been incredible with me, so dedicated, and attentive, answering my 20,000 questions, and always giving me support. I don't even think Professors truly know how much they can impact a persons life.
What is your main UM extracurricular activity – why is it important to you?
I've always taken around 6-7 classes per semester, basically in school from 9am to 9pm on good days, so my focus has really been about giving my best to my work. This isn't my first major, but this is the one I fell in love with. So basically going to museums, exhibitions and artist talks, and participating in art-related activities. These things are super important because they keep me connected with what is happening in my area of study. Sometimes I can get to focus in producing work, rather than getting more involved in the art world.
How did any of your beliefs or interests change during your time at A&S?
I have learned and grown so much. Every class that I took here was so enlightening. UM is a great school and it opened my eyes to what quality education really is. Even my oceanography class comes in handy when I go scuba diving. I don't want it to be over.
If you were to offer advice to a future ‘Cane, what would you say?
I'd tell them to really take advantage of this school, its professors and everything it has to offer. I wish I could stay longer and do more, but time flies by, and being in this school is an unbelievable opportunity, so really make the best of it. Make lots of friends, connect with teachers, get involved, and take lots of art classes.
Always involve yourself in creative projects or activities -- it'll give you fresh perspectives on things and it will undeniably make you happier and more relaxed at the very least. Also, take Art History courses, you will treasure that knowledge forever!
