Future Visions: Interview with Graduating ArtLab Intern Emmarie Padilla

This spring six ArtLab interns will graduate from high school. In celebration of their growth, commencement and future we will feature an intern interview each week!

At PlatteForum we believe that youth voice is essential to a more just and equitable world. Over the course of the Class of 2018’s time with us they have built community, supported each other through high school growing pains, worked hard to complete their course work and apply to college, and marched in rallies and protests. In ArtLab they have dared to articulate a vision of a better world through their art by challenging our cultural narratives in America. Cheers to the leadership of the ArtLab Interns!

What are you most proud of in this last year of high school?

I’m proud of sticking up for myself. Even though I still make mistakes I still see a future for myself. I want to strive for my future and for myself.

What will you miss about ArtLab?

Another place to call home and a place to have fun learning. What I love about ArtLab is that it’s a place I enjoy learning.

Something you love about yourself?

I’m a person who is super curious and I like to challenge ideas. I want to challenge others thinking as well as my own and explore new possibilities.

Sweetest thing?

Memories--creating new memories and remembering joyful ones. Also, the unexpected joys of life.

What is your hope for your generation? Where would you like to see America going?

I would like my generation to break norms, the repeated cycles of sexism, racism, etc. I hope that in America we can learn to live as equals and to come up with ideas to stimulate and encourage that evolution.

Famous last words?

We may be leaving high school but pizza is with us forever.