Whether painting a mural or blending the perfect two-tone lip, MiKayla “Kay” Thomas lives her life colorfully. The freshman Communications Design major looks for the art in everyday motions. Whether it’s the way they cook, build or speak, Thomas loves to see people’s passions shine in their daily activities, because their passions are their arts forms.
“I think that art is beautiful in the way that it brings people together and helps us cope with the ugly things in the world,” Thomas said.
The Crosby, Texas native has been painting and drawing for as long as she can remember. Although support for the arts severely lacked in her elementary school system – as they typically do – Thomas’ fourth grade art teacher sparked her interest. Once she reached high school, Thomas pursued painting and sculpture. Thomas’ assistant dance director ecnouraged her to assist in an art competition and became a pivotal character in her career.
“She helped me grow exponentially as a person and an artist in so many ways,” Thomas said.
Performance art and paintings rank high in Thomas’ favorite forms of art, but she has a deep appreciation for every medium. She perceives any form of creation to be art, even if the action is not commonly distinguished as an “artsy” activity or product. Even when Thomas does not have the time to physically produce a tangible piece of art, she brings artistry into her daily life, crafting her outfit, enjoying music, experimenting with makeup or attempting to see her surroundings from a new perspective.
“[Art] stands for things that are much bigger than myself,” Thomas said. “I can allow people to see a sliver of the world through my eyes and give them a better look into the way I feel or think.”
Thomas hopes to influence others the way her mentors inspired her. She plans to use her skills to impact the way education is approached in regards to giving all children an equal opportunity to learn and explore their passions. Using her designs, Thomas aims to spark a call to action for problematic issues and causes that need attention. Thomas believes art is not meant to just be seen, but to ignite change.
“I would love to remove the persuasion against the arts that I think is a common feature in many school systems,” Thomas said.
This semester, Thomas is a part of the crew for the First Year Players’ production of Heathers the Musical and writing for Fresh U. Amidst a busy schedule of classes, Thomas still manages to create art on her own terms. Taking names and sparking change, this visionary is painting her way to a brighter future.