Ariah “Finch” is currently a student at the Hazleton Area Arts and Humanities Academy. She is a major part of the Visual Arts Studio, working under Anne Michaels, formerly Anne Flowers.

Ariah has created many beautiful pieces of outstanding artwork, winning a multitude of art competitions such as the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum Regional High School Juried Art Show, PA Renaissance Faire Poster art and ad design, Hazleton Art League’s Art Youth Expo as well as a second place finishing in the 2024 Fine Art Fiesta’s student exhibition for colored pencil for her drawing titled, “Beyond Measure.”

We will be discussing with Ariah the real meaning and thought process behind her work, “Beyond Measure”.

“I had the most fun and the most anger of my life making this piece,” Ariah said. “It was a difficulty that I truly enjoyed when the process was finished. I had created this piece as a warmness between two male figures and this love, which is factually subjective, being presented in one simple moment. The piece has a thorough use of orange to create a homely feeling and I wanted to make the piece intimate, with only one room in the piece but forcing the viewers eyes straight to the middle of the piece, the men. When I finished, I had been able to execute this feeling of intimacy, which was my objective from the start.”

Various people have seen it from their own different perspectives, making their own assumptions of what the piece is about. There is a feeling of intimacy, peace, and comfort. Almost as if it is a safe space between these two male figures.

When Ariah makes these pieces of work, she puts an incredible amount of thought and detail into it. I want to show others the amazing things that run through Ariah’s mind while she creates these pieces of artwork.

Ariah puts a ton of effort into everything she does. She is an incredibly hard worker. Her work is simply admirable, as stunning and angelic as every line drawn and brush stroke throughout her work. It is simply a beautiful sight. Yet, so much is unknown as well and I’d love to bring it to light.

Here are a couple of questions that will better help readers understand where Ariah comes from in her artwork, such as her inspiration, goals and views towards her art. These questions will also help inspire those on their own path in their artwork as well as getting them on the right path towards success.

What is your inspiration?

I like to think that my art, especially style, is shaped around inspiration. I use plenty of observation skills with my art, like landscapes, the small world we live in, etc. I use various references for my skills. There are artists I’ve seen throughout my life and I’ve implemented those influences into what I call my style.

What motivates you?

Creativity is my greatest motivation. If an idea strikes, I grasp it and can’t help but sketch it out. Tomorrow, the idea may not occur, so getting it out while I can is a benefit for me. I’m not the most motivated person, but visual thinking motivates me during every moment.

This is something that many can relate to, as some may not always be motivated. Once inspiration strikes, what a person can do is unmeasurable.

What or who are your influences?

The people around me really influence the way I create. As well as receiving compliments and feedback, personally, I love that persistence. You can also get a greater perspective when receiving feedback from other artists. I also take influence from my father and his overuse of the word phenomenal.

How do you think of these pieces of art and characters?

It’s just visual thinking. It starts with a passion for this character/piece of art and then it gets technical. I greatly enjoy deep thinking pieces because it leaves the viewer to interpret.

Well, to interpret what?

Exactly! To elaborate further on technicality – there’s the lighting, the structure, the placement, etc. As for my characters, they are typically based on real people or their ideas.

What message would you share with other artists?

Honestly, don’t worry too much about the end results. Think about and trust the process. If something isn’t going your way, don’t just abandon it. Think of your solutions or even experiment with it. References are always good and okay to use. I’ve been drawing for a long time and references are still a daily part of my process. Find inspiration in the things as well as the people around you. Have fun with it. There’s always an opportunity to go back and make changes. Don’t stress about it, just go with it!