Why I Give Back – An Alumni Perspective
Ryman Arts Spring 2021 Class Photo
By Cherry Lao (Ryman ‘02)
My journey began when I moved from Bangkok to the U.S. in 1998, in pursuit of a better education. I was 14 years old. Adjusting to a new environment without immediate family by my side, with English as a second language, I experienced a great sense of limitations. I was full of emotions, excited yet fearful of the unknown while adjusting to living stateside and adapting to a new culture.
At the start of my freshman year of high school. I was placed in an ESL curriculum as well as primarily visual and performing arts classes because a counselor didn’t believe I could keep up with the other students. I felt frustrated and inadequate, as if I wasn’t good enough. However, what initially seemed like a limitation turned out to be a catalyst for my growth. Being in those art classes became a blessing in disguise: it marked the beginning of my love for design and artistic exploration.
One of my art teachers recognized my talent for design and became an inspiring force in my life. She told me about the Ryman Arts program and encouraged me to enter their scholarship competition. It was through her unwavering belief and support that I found the confidence to apply. At 17, the next pivotal moment in my journey arrived: I was accepted into Ryman Arts.
Ryman Arts Beginning Drawing Class, Spring 2021
Attending Ryman Arts allowed me to channel my energy into creativity. I was spending time with other young artists, learning new skills together, and we were all figuring things out. Some of the art was better than others, but it didn't matter. I couldn't draw a portrait to save my life but was pretty good with still-life drawing and details. We shared common interests through our artistic expression. I felt accepted, welcomed, and grounded. Ryman Arts was something I looked forward to every weekend. Though a lot of work—I remember spending 30+ hours a week on top of my traditional schoolwork—it was fun, and I was in the state of flow. At the end of the program, I walked away with many proud pieces.
Fast forward to college application time, I was intrigued by graphic design. With some guidance, I entered another competition for the Graphic Design program at the Art Institute of Los Angeles.
Many artworks I created from Ryman Arts ended up in my submission. Surprisingly, I was awarded a full scholarship to a three-year program. That was yet another turning point, which paved the way for me to become a graphic designer.
Well, that was over 20 years ago. Today, I am a co-founder and creative director for Citizen Best, a brand marketing agency. Most of my time is spent collaborating with my team to help clients realize their brand vision and solve business problems through visual design. The rest of my time I spend mentoring designers and sharing the tricks of the trade that I've learned along the way.
So, why do I make a monthly contribution to Ryman Arts? It's because Ryman Arts was foundational in my journey. It provided me a safe space to learn, experiment, and flourish as a young artist. I am grateful for my experience, and I want to give back to support the next generation of young artists, especially those who might share a similar beginning to mine.
Ryman Arts today – Class of 2025
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