Student Spotlight - Christina Blomberg

Christina Blomberg describes herself as a “local PNW gal,” born and raised in Everett, who enjoys sci-fi, books, music, ballet, and art! Growing up with a father who was an artist, she started drawing at 5 years old. “Even then, it was really the only thing I ever saw myself doing,” Blomberg said. With six siblings and limited opportunities to take art classes, Blomberg was mostly self-taught before attending EvCC. But with the help of her father and her own determination to pursue her passion, she has now graduated with an associate in fine arts, with a focus on studio arts, from EvCC. To check out some of Christina's work, visit her website. 

Why did you choose EvCC?

Once I got to high school, the questions started rolling in: What are you going to do after school? I knew I needed to make a game plan. I contacted some local professional artists who were wonderful enough to look over my portfolio and give me advice. Nowadays, it's not always beneficial to go to an expensive 4-year art school. My contacts advised me to do a 2-year program at the local community college. I had 3 siblings who attended EvCC at the time, so EvCC was the natural choice. During my second year, I got a job at my local dance studio. The way EvCC structures its classes made it possible for me to balance work, school, and life! EvCC ended up being such a fantastic option for someone like me who wanted a really solid arts education while saving time and avoiding debt!

What do you plan to do next?

I am currently finishing edits on my artist's website, with plans to launch the new version later this month! The next year for me will include submitting my portfolio to children's book authors and publishers, as well as travelling around doing art lessons for local kiddos! I have a few family friends who have asked I do some private tutoring. It feels only fitting I give back to the community the resources I wish I had as a budding artist! Oh, and of course I'll be dancing too...

What interested you about your area of study?

I've always been a very empathetic and creative person. Art was a way for me to express myself in a way that words couldn't, even as a young child. I knew I would never be happy doing anything else. EvCC let me get deeper into the art scene than I ever had before and introduced me to fellow artists that I could learn from.

How do you think the skills you learned at EvCC are helping you reach your goals?

I had taught myself quite a bit before getting to EvCC, but what I was sorely lacking was the true foundations of technique. I was also missing the experience of working in a shared environment with other artists, giving and receiving critiques, and exploring mediums and materials I hadn’t explored previously. It was also incredibly helpful to have a support system through EvCC to point me in the right direction when preparing to enter the world of professional artists.

Describe the best experience you had at EvCC.

I'd say I really hit my stride in my second year. The wonderful professors and staff in the art department (namely, Linda Berkley) really encouraged me and gave me lots of opportunities to take risks and put myself out there. One of those instances was when I was invited to participate in the AI and Art panel that was hosted in Whitehorse back in Winter Quarter 2022.

Who has helped you succeed at EvCC? What did that person do to help you?

While Linda really helped me grow and push myself, I think I owe quite a bit to the entire art department, as well as my fellow classmates! Shelly Hendricks and Thom Lee were my first art instructors at EvCC, and the experiences I had in their classes were invaluable. I grew my technique so much in that first quarter alone! And Sam Case, of course; he and Mike Rhodes do so much to keep all the classes running smoothly. And last but CERTAINLY not least, I owe quite a bit to Nancy Jones. She was my advisor and kept me on track throughout my time at EvCC.

What advice do you have for new students?

Be kind to yourself! College is hard. Especially if you are juggling other school work, a job, and/or family life. Just keep working hard and doing the best you can. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your instructors or your advisors. They really are there to help you succeed!  

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Yes, I’d like to thank all the EvCC faculty and staff for making this possible, especially all the wonderful instructors and techs who have supported me (and all students) through my EvCC journey. A special thanks to Mr. Allison, Shelly, Thom, Chris, Linda, Sam, Nancy, Mike, Miles, Taylor, and Mike V.