A Penchant for the Arts

Shannon Robinson points out his picture on display at Evenden Tower, SUNY Delhi

Shannon Robinson has a passion for the arts. He loves listening to music and has a special place in his heart for opera. Shannon shared that as he listens to music, he likes to draw.  This peripheral interest has taken flight as Shannon began taking a course at SUNY Delhi, “Freehand Drawing” taught by Assistant Professor, Lisa Tessier.  The course helps students to see, understand, and record visually complex items. Students are taught the basic principles of design and composition using both black and white as well as colored pencils.   

Recently one of Shannon’s drawings was selected for a display at Evenden Tower located on campus. Professor Tessier said that the drawings for the display were selected based on opinions of the students as well as her own perception of how well the drawing met the requirements of the assignment.  She had tasked the class to use shadow and highlighting to create dimension in an object using a range of 4 or more values.   When Shannon learned that his drawing had been selected to be a part of the display he said “It made me feel good”.   

Professor Tessier shared that Shannon’s line work has developed a lot. “He is really starting to see lights and shadows and is using a greater range of values. “  Other items Shannon has drawn include a perspective study on a commercial building, a figure study of his own hand, and the apple drawing that is in the display at Evenden Tower.  

On a personal note, Professor Tessier said, “It is so nice to have Shannon in class; he has a “can do” attitude. When I ask him to try something he responds, “I can do that.” He exemplifies a positive attitude and I appreciate that.” 

Shannon with (L to R): Assistant Professor Lisa Tessier and fellow students Jamie Walsh and Josephine DeSanto who also had pictures in the exhibit.