Alláh-u-Abhá Rodrigues ’23 is a post-graduate from Maputo, Mozambique. He is currently taking visual arts as a part of the Advanced Honors Portfolio course. Rodrigues is involved in the Makers and Engineering clubs. He is also a part of JV Cross Country, Robotics, and Thirds tennis. Next year, Rodrigues plans to study computer engineering at Yale University. He will continue pursuing art as a hobby.

How did you discover your passion for visual art?

I was in a two-year relationship with someone that I really liked and we had known each other for three years. However, our relationship ended when I was battling with some mental illnesses. 

During that time, I needed to find a way to express my emotions and thoughts, so I started to explore drawing. The only way I could express myself was through art, so I began drawing cartoons that both of us enjoyed so much. 

From these cartoons, I began practising realistic drawing in an attempt to portray the images and special moments from my relationship. 

What is the significance of art for you?

At the beginning of this year, I struggled as an international student to integrate myself into the school environment and culture. So art became an important way for me to express myself during those difficult times. 

Also, sometimes, I still suffer from speech impediments, so art is an important way for me to convey my thoughts and feelings through a creative lens. 

How has the school helped you improve as an artist?

Before coming to the school, I did not have many opportunities to participate in a serious and professional arts program, so when I joined the arts curriculum here, I was really surprised at how committed the school’s art instructors are to helping their students improve their art techniques and form their own independent artistic styles. 

In particular, Ms. Terri Moore, instructor in art, and Mr. Brad Faus, instructor in art, have really helped me grow as an artist. They provide great and insightful feedback. 

Also, Mr. Faus provides art students with opportunities to explore architecture as a part of our arts course, which has allowed me to produce more realistic landscape drawings rather than just drawing portraits. 

The art teachers at this school have really helped me to grow holistically and shown me new perspectives on art.