Stories Behind the Artists

Carter Mehle
Former Teen Board Member, Summer Camp Assistant  

How did you first get involved with ASLD and when?
I first got involved with the ASLD when I was six as a regular camp attendee.

How has ASLD shaped you as an artist?
Through ASLD I acquired skills and experience that weren’t available anywhere else. It opened doors and prepared me for rigorous art programs in high school and beyond; I’ve built multiple portfolios at ASLD to apply for high school and colleges. The technical skills that I’ve picked up at the ASLD have been key factors in my work. As an animator, the many hours of life drawing practice I’ve had at ASLD starting when I was very young and continuing into adulthood have been imperative to my success and development in my major.

What do you like about the ASLD community?
I appreciate how the community fosters creativity without the elitism that can sometimes come with the art world. I’ve never had an experience at the ASLD in which I haven’t felt as though everyone’s work was celebrated and encouraged.

Anything else you want to share with us?
The ASLD has been an integral part of my life in three distinct phases, having helped nurture my art as a child, develop my skills as a pre-teen, and gave me a place to both work and grow as a young adult. The attached piece was made by compiling life drawings done at the ASLD.