Sam McKinness, Painting

Why the Hartford Art School?
I got an amazing scholarship and my first visits to the art school were really comfortable and laid back — not stressful or hectic like other schools I visited — and I could see myself studying here and making good work here.

Is there anything to do around here?
If you have a lot of friends wherever you live then you will have fun. Yes,there are things to do around here. I like going to movies at Cinestudio, raising a glass or two at the Spigot, and going to all-night dance parties. I also like riding my bike around town. I always seem to run into someone I know walking or riding around in my neighborhood.

What is/was your biggest concern when you first came to school?
I was honestly worried about not being in New York. The truth is that I go into New York about once a month, and I feel like I know where things are, how to get around, and I’ve made a handful of good connections so I feel like I could move there after I graduate.

What inspires you?
Social events, mostly. I get into looking at my friends and I get really excited about people who just look great all the time. There’s nothing better than attractive, well-educated young people sharing an interesting conversation or heated argument even.