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CIA’s international reputation drew illustration major Junce Lu from China to Cleveland. The senior has been recognized in multiple national art competitions.

Give us some examples of successes you’ve experienced at CIA.

My illustration “The Last Gift’’ was selected to be part of the Society of Illustrators Student Competition in 2017. In 2017, I won the Zankel Scholarship from the Society of Illustrators. My pieces have been accepted into the national student show and conference this year.

What drew you to CIA in the first place?

I knew CIA had a high reputation in art for more than 100 years. It is one of the top art colleges in the United States.

What’s your favorite part of making art?

For me, the most important thing about making art is sketching. I always bring my sketchbook everywhere with me to record life. When I have ideas, I will sketch them out, and it’s very helpful to improve my art skills.

Have you done any professional work outside of CIA?

I have done some freelance work for American Greetings.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Keep working! Improve your skills!

What has surprised you in your education here at CIA?

The professors and students are friendly and helpful. CIA has really good resources for contacting major companies in the art industry.

What do you still struggle with in terms of making art?

It’s not struggling, but I still have lots of techniques to learn.

What’s one thing that people generally don’t know or are surprised to learn about you?

I can play 11 musical instruments. Music is also an art, and I think it is good for my artistic senses, helping me understand art better and deeper.