WSS: When did you get into drawing?

Polina Avdonina (she/her): In my country [Kazakhstan], maybe once a week, we would draw, but not in school … It was kind of like art club. And we had one common table and would just sit and draw different things.

WSS: Did you have inspiration for starting art?

PA: My sister graduated from art school and now she’s taking graphic design … I think my older sister [influenced me]. I just saw her drawings; she liked to stick them to the walls. 

WSS: What are your favorite things to draw?

PA: I like to draw buildings … but sometimes they are not so good. Maybe cats too. I have [a cat].

WSS: What’s your favorite drawing style?

PA: [I like] painting or … drawing in black and white with black pens … I’m too lazy to sometimes color my pictures … I also like color pencils.

WSS: How have your art skills developed over time?

PA: I wasn’t drawing so much, just in club or at home. But I read in my health class that [art] helps to improve mental health and when you’re stressed, you just need to draw … so now I’m enjoying it more. 

WSS: Why did you join art club at West?

PA: Honestly, I just loved [the mascot] the art snail.

WSS: What’s your favorite thing about art club?

PA: People are more communicative. Like [in Kazakhstan] we were sitting quietly with music in the background … but I like the atmosphere [here].