“Good eye for detail, meticulous, and works hard toward perfection” are just a few ways FCHS art teacher Michelle Coleman describes high school junior Ashtin Bowman. Bowman has been a student of Coleman ever since her freshman year. Since then Coleman has taught Bowman in Art 1, Art 2, and Arts and Crafts. However, Bowman’s love for art started long before her freshman year at FCHS. “I have been interested in art ever since I was little,” said Bowman.

People that have inspired Bowman over the years include her art teacher, Coleman. “She works differently and is able to handle different types of art,” Bowman explained. Bowman also felt honored when she found out that Coleman wanted an article to be done on her. Bowman has also been inspired by artist Vincent Van Gogh because of his abstract work, and by the contestants of the TV show Face Off, which she’d love to compete on one day. The show is a SyFy original that deals with character creation through prosthetic makeup. Bowman also adores anything done by film director Tim Burton, and Coleman often describes Bowman’s work similar to that of famed director, especially some of his classics, such 1989’s Batman, Edward Scissorhands, A Nightmare Before Christmas, and Corpse Bride. “Her work is a little bit fantasy and a little sinister at times. Her interests definitely play a role in what she creates,” said Coleman.

Coleman’s favorite art projects done by Bowman include her mirror image mosaic of Edward Scissorhands, her calligraphy project, and her T- shirt design she did in Arts and Crafts. Bowman’s hard work towards perfection paid off last year when she was awarded Best in Show at the art show for her Edward Scissorhands project. The project, which was a mirror image mosaic of Edward Scissorhands, is also one of Bowman’s favorites. It was made up of over 1000 pieces and took her three weeks to finish. Of course, she received a perfect grade on the project.

As for the future, Bowman plans on taking Arts and Crafts 3 her Senior year with Coleman as teacher. She plans to pursue her love of art by going to art school after high school. However, she is still unsure what that art school will be. “I can see her doing illustrations or something in the arts,” said Coleman.