Many people’s first memories are wishy-washy, vague images that are only tid-bits of one event. However, one of North Penn’s leading Electronic Art students, Cassy Reffner, has a more distinct memory. Sitting in her kindergarten classroom, coloring outside the lines of the elephant picture atop her desk, Reffner’s first memory is of her teachers comment that she was “coloring the wrong way.” From then on, she decided to listen to her own instincts and color outside of the lines as much as she wanted.
Having taken Electronic Art 1 and 2 and Digital Photo 1 and 2, Reffner has developed a solid background in digital art and media. Having previous knowledge in Photoshop, Reffner was one of the most advanced students in her Electronic Art 1 class, enabling her to help fellow students on their projects. Through Electronic Art 1, Reffner developed her talent with Adobe Illustrator, which she used to create the logos for the Simulated Mock Republican Convention earlier this month and Pride and Prejudice in November, along with this years Winterball tickets with Molly Fehr.
“Like most artists, I am very critical of my artwork, so it is hard to say I have a favorite piece […] I always feel like I could do better, and that gives me my motivation for my next piece” said Reffner.
Besides working in the classroom, Reffner draws inspiration for her pieces outside of school through the program Evernote and the website Stumble Upon where she follows different artist blogs.
“I am always impressed by anything in the fine arts. I don’t have the patience for detailed paintings and drawings, so I give kudos to anyone who can do that.”
By following other artists blogs and websites, Reffner has developed a style that is “all over the place.”
“I love anything from simple vector images to elaborate paintings,” explained Reffner.
Motivated and curious, Reffner is planning to attend college with a major in Graphic Design, though she is keeping her options open because of the limited amout of jobs in the Graphic Design field.
To other artists, Reffner is just one example of how coloring outside of the lines can take you anywhere.
Sara McConnell • Jan 28, 2012 at 8:21 pm
I think it’s great to keep an open mind when thinking about art. There are so many possibilities and styles to choose from, and all amazing in their own way. I too am an artist, so I understand that once a piece of work is completed, all you can do is so the tiny mistakes as if there are huge neon signs pointing them out. I’m glad she can realize her mistakes and learn from them when doing her next piece.
Parnell Kelley • Jan 27, 2012 at 7:51 pm
Cassy is seriously an AMAZING person. Despite my clear bias as her friend, Cassy goes out of her way to help anyone she can and I love that NP took the time to recognize her. Maria hit the nail on the head with this one. Being a member of Digital Art club and a designer as well as Cassy, I appreciate that she is being recognized. I can only hope that the same goes for me as a senior. Nice work guys.