Art has a way of speaking when words fall short. For senior Julia Burnette, every sketch, shade, and pattern is a way to share her vision and express herself. Having grown tremendously as an artist, Burnette now channels her lifelong creativity and vision into her new role as president of National Art Honors Society (NAHS).
Burnette’s artistic instincts emerged remarkably early, when she first expressed an interest in drawing as a toddler. She attributes the early interest to the oversized sketchbooks her grandfather would give her each Christmas. Her mom also played a pivotal role in nurturing her creativity. Together, they would visit art museums where Burnette would bring the exhibits to life in her sketchbooks. Since then, she has become passionate about creating unique pieces that reflect her character and individuality. “The feeling of making something with your own hands, working on it for weeks, and having the final product be super cool is unmatched,’’ said senior Burnette.
While art has held a steady presence throughout Burnette’s life, her true artistic progression began during her time at North Atlanta. As an underclassman, Burnette excelled in her introductory art classes, which aided her later enrollment in the exceptional International Baccalaureate (IB) visual arts program. Surrounded by esteemed mentors and other talented artists, Burnette has had unique opportunities for growth through the program. This past year, Burnette and her peers traveled to Midtown to visit the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) to explore outside of the classroom. As a second-year IB visual art student, she will also have her own space in the annual art exhibition to showcase a series of eight works. Additionally, the curriculum has encouraged her to experiment with new styles and techniques. “Until this year, my work was primarily influenced by graphite,’’ said senior Burnette. “However, I now incorporate more color into my pieces after suggestions from Mr. Padilla.’’
Despite her later induction into the IB visual arts program, Burnette has been interested in North Atlanta’s National Art Honor Society (NAHS) since attending the eighth-grade club fair. Now, as a senior, Burnette is president of NAHS and has been a member of the club since her sophomore year. Amongst her many goals for the club this year, she hopes to resurrect the club magazine, an impressive endeavor that, if completed, will transform NAHS. While still in its early stages, she plans to release a digital version before winter break and, if time and resources allow, a print version at a later date. “I’m really excited to see what everyone submits and how this project manifests itself!’’ said senior Burnette.
Rooted in her early childhood sketches, Burnette’s passion for art has matured into a powerful voice of self expression and a devotion to lead, reflected in her presidency of NAHS and efforts to revive the club’s magazine. Burnette’s skill and dedication will be powerful forces in enriching North Atlanta’s art community this year and for years to come.
