Creativity Thrives at CCS: Samantha Wilkinson ‘26 (CCS Art: Painting Emphasis)

Samantha talks community, experiential learning, and creative freedom at CCS

Since joining the College of Creative Studies (CCS), Samantha Wilkinson ‘26 (CCS Art: Painting Emphasis) has fully embraced the tight-knit community and creative freedom of the College. From creating alongside talented peers to traveling to world-renowned art institutions, Samantha’s experience exemplifies the enriching experiential learning that is core to CCS’ mission. She recently sat down with the College to reflect on her time at CCS and her creative pursuits.

CCS: How did you hear about CCS? What inspired you to apply?

Samantha Wilkinson (SW): I first heard about CCS while applying to colleges and looking at art programs. The uniqueness of the art major here really excited me! Between the small community, assigned personal studio space, and room for independent work as an artist, I was super hopeful to be a part of the college.

CCS: What is your major, and why are you passionate about it?

SW: I am an art major with an emphasis in painting! Art has been a part of my life for so long, and I genuinely can’t imagine a life where I’m not painting. I’m passionate about the importance and beauty of art in the world, but what drives me most is the sheer joy of painting. The delight of creation and expression is integral to my life. Thanks to CCS’s format, I get to allocate so much time to a practice I love and enjoy total creative freedom.

“The delight of creation and expression is integral to my life. Thanks to CCS’s format, I get to allocate so much time to a practice I love and enjoy total creative freedom.”

—Samantha Wilkinson ‘26 (CCS Art)

CCS: Can you share some insights into the research or projects you've been involved in during your time at CCS?

SW: One of the most amazing opportunities I’ve had is through the [College’s] Travel Undergraduate Research Fund (TURF). With the support of staff and donor funds, I was able to travel and see art in New York, Paris, and Amsterdam. Visiting places like the Met and the Louvre and seeing incredible works of art was absolutely invaluable to my art practice. It’s such a rare experience to have this level of support in developing as an artist, and I’m incredibly grateful.

“It’s such a rare experience to have this level of support in developing as an artist, and I’m incredibly grateful.”

—Samantha Wilkinson ‘26 (CCS Art)

I’m also a huge advocate for the figure drawing sessions I help run at CCS. We meet weekly to draw the figure from life in a group setting, continuing a long-standing art tradition. It’s a super supportive and fun way to create and learn together.

CCS: Is there a particular highlight or memory that has defined your CCS experience?

SW: Being part of the freshman colloquium show was a major highlight for me. I really love the gallery space at CCS and the opportunity to show your art. Having my work presented in that context and taken seriously, even as a freshman, was such an exciting and encouraging experience.

CCS: Are there any faculty members, staff members, or other CCS community members who have positively impacted your academic or personal growth?

SW: Yes! So many people within CCS have positively impacted my academic and personal growth. The support of the faculty is just unmatched. I really feel like teachers and artists, like my advisor Hank Pitcher, are personally invested in me and my success.

The Deans and staff have also been consistently nurturing my experience, and even just being able to say hi to everyone in the halls has created such a positive environment. My peers are also incredible—I get to share studio space with amazing artists who’ve become some of my best friends.

CCS: What advice would you give to prospective students considering applying to CCS, especially those interested in your major?

SW: My advice would definitely be to apply! I always recommend CCS to people and feel so lucky to be here. The program’s small size can feel intimidating, but that’s what makes it so special. If you’re passionate about what you do, it’s a perfect fit. For artists especially, it’s the ultimate place to create and grow.

“If you’re passionate about what you do, [the College] is a perfect fit. For artists especially, it’s the ultimate place to create and grow.”

—Samantha Wilkinson ‘26 (CCS Art)

CCS: Anything else you’d like to share?

SW: In addition to art and painting, I’m also passionate about coffee shops, plants, the beach, and marine life!

Thank you to Samantha for taking the time to share her CCS story and insights, and the opportunity to highlight her creative spirit.

For CCS students who are interested in a travel grant, click here to learn more about the CCS  Traveling Undergraduate Research Fund (TURF).