Kit Seaton

Illustration
Class of 2010
Hometown: Dana Point, CA

Why did you choose to attend RMCAD?

RMCAD had been on my list for a few years while I was considering going back to school. I wanted to go to school in the West and I wanted a good illustration program. I liked RMCAD's curriculum and how open and engaging they were when I was a prospective student.

What has been your favorite class so far and why?

I've really enjoyed the illustration classes I've had so far—it's very difficult to pick a favorite. They have in their respective ways, challenged the way I thought and the way I approached my work. As a result I've grown leaps and bounds since I've been here. One of my favorite classes was Paul Yalowitz's Children's Book Illustration 1 class. I took it over the summer, so the class size was small. By the end we were very close. Even though I am not going to pursue the children's book emphasis, I found Paul's class to be very inspiring. His curriculum based on character development, story, and process is applicable in so many venues, anyone would find it valuable. I miss all of those classes from the summer actually. It was a very positive experience.

What did your favorite professor do to earn your respect or admiration?

I could tell so many experiences where the illustration faculty has gone out of their way to help when I was struggling with a difficult issue or situation. Larry Kresek, as the head of our department, has always been very accessible to the constant fluctuations of my schedule, and was willing to offer advice whenever I needed it. There was also a time when Dave Collins set aside three hours after class to go over an outside project with me and offered an in-depth critique that far exceeded anything I would expect of an instructor's time. My experiences with the faculty here have been one of the most positive results of attending RMCAD. Also, on a side note, Hugh Alexander makes an incredible all-natural chocolate cake. I never knew such a thing existed.

How has RMCAD prepared you for what you want to do when you graduate?

I'm very eager to apply what I've learned and go out into the world and illustrate. My biggest aim is to tell the stories I have been waiting to tell all my life. I'm fixated on graphic novels right now, just because I think the sequential narrative is a powerful one. I would also be happy doing concept art and character design. There is a lot I'd like to do. The biggest value I've gained from RMCAD is the confidence to go and seek it out.

How would you describe the students who attend RMCAD?

We are a cohesive and rowdy bunch in the illustration department. I've had a lot of experiences in the theatre from my days in high school as well as NSCA, but I have been challenged to find a larger cast of characters. I respect my classmates and admire their intensity and desire. They work very hard and their work demonstrates their dedication to what they do and what they want to be. I hope that I will have the pleasure to work with them in the future. They are my peers and comrades, and they are some of my favorite people.

What do you like about living in Denver/Colorado?

Well, coming from a small city in northern Idaho, I have to say that it is very very nice to have a local art supply store. And an art museum and good theater! I've tried to take advantage of the cultural offerings of Denver whenever the opportunity arises. It's been great fun to got out and explore some of the Colorado landscape. Red Rocks is now one of my favorite places.

How has your life changed since enrolling at RMCAD?

Life is certainly more liberated, and I've enjoyed the independence of being in a larger city. I really appreciate the small community of RMCAD and the people I've met since I've been here.

Was there a moment when RMCAD changed from "a school" to "my school"?

I think it was that first critique with the illustration faculty. I was nervous at first because I wasn't sure if it was going to be death by firing squad or what. I'd been through my share of department critiques before, and they can always go either way. But this critique ended up being different from any of the others I'd had. They engaged me openly and asked me questions that were encouraging as well as challenging. I felt that I had their respect. I realized that I had what I needed to be a professional, and that a career was more than just a shadow of a possibility. All the doors were finally opening.

What would you want a prospective student to know about RMCAD?

If you're like me and you're coming from a long way, I'd tell you that getting through that first year may be tough. It may take awhile to find your feet, especially while you're trying to get through those prerequisites. Be open to new experiences. There are days you will meet resistance both internal and external. Some days it may feel that you're being forged by fire. Sometimes your creativity will fail you and you'll have to work for it. There is a great deal that can be learned here, take full advantage. It is so worth it.