Amara Tilley is a jack of all trades. Like many artists, a lot of growth in her art occurred during the pandemic. She experimented with many different mediums and ultimately decided that she didn’t want to choose just one. 

“I’ve liked art since I was little, but we didn’t have a lot of money. So I could really only do pencil-paper stuff. Then as I got older, I got a job so I could buy paint for myself. During quarantine I started doing a lot of acrylic painting. And then my mom taught me how to crochet. I had just gotten back into that during quarantine. So I guess quarantine was the turning point for me.” 

In the eyes of Tilley, there is no limit to what an artist can accomplish. As an art student at City High, she makes total use of the classes offered and the time she has to work on her several crafts. 

“I do a bunch of everything. I like painting. I took the painting class, but I also like to crochet, and I even have fun with ceramics,” Tilley ‘23 said. 

Currently, Tilley is most focused on making garments by crocheting. She likes to create unique pieces using vibrant colors and an array or techniques. 

“I like doing stuff that is practical. I don’t like when it just sits on a shelf. That’s why I like making clothing, so that I can wear it or I can give it away. I can also sell it. I just like the stuff that’s practical.” 

Her most recent project is a crocheted blouse with puff sleeves. Her inspiration is that of a princess corset top. This takes up a significant part of her day and projects are something she spends a lot of time on. 

“For some of the bigger projects, I’ve made three sweaters by crocheting, they usually take me about a month. However, my current project hasn’t been taking me that long.”

Though Tilley falls on the practical side of making art, there is meaning behind why she does it. She aspires to be a role model for other young artists. 

“I like to make cool things to inspire other people to also make cool things. To inspire other people to not just stick to one medium. You can do a bunch. You don’t have to stick to just painting or just ceramics or just one form of making clothing. You can do it all.”

Because Tilley wears the clothing she makes, her artistic identity is clearly seen as she walks down the halls of City High. With every step she takes, Tilley defines herself further. 

“Expressing yourself is super, super important. That’s why I dress the way I do. That’s why I make the art that I make. Just expressing yourself and destressing in your art. It’s good to have an outlet.”