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Artist Profile

About Me:

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Lela Arruza is an Asian American artist born in Jiangxi, China. She was adopted and raised in Apex, North Carolina, until attending Appalachian State University for undergraduate studies. Currently she is pursuing a B.F.A. in studio art with a concentration in ceramics as well as a minor in general business. Her background as an adopted Asian American artist encouraged her to explore identity and culture through art and craft. This focus on craft is expressed through a variety of mediums including clay, paper, and metal. Arruza has been awarded numerous prestigious scholarships and awards, and their work has been widely exhibited on a regional level. She has presented workshops to various groups and has a passion for volunteering within the community.

Education

2019-Present

Appalachian State University

2009-2019

Grace Christian School

2018

North Carolina Governor's School East

2023 BFA in Studio Art

Department of Fine Art

     Chancellor Scholar

     Honors College

     Departmental Honors

     General Business Minor

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Thesis exhibition: “Torn & Folded: Finding identity, community, and healing through paper craft.”

Faculty Advisor: Phyllis Kloda

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National Honors Society

AP Scholar

GPA: 4.3

Summer Session Academic Art Program 

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