LEAH PARAGANO ’26

MENDHAM, NJ

My passion for music stemmed from my extensive background in theater, a cappella, choir, and the arts. This year, I am exploring my talents as a solo artist. I have selected three songs to perform that represent me, my family, and ideologies that I support. Through this experience, I was able to connect to music on a deeper level and gain confidence performing by myself.

ILLIANA REDDING ’26 VENICE BEACH, CA

I started painting when I was 15, and immediately started with self portraiture as a means of introspective documentation. I took what I had learned about myself through my previous explorations in painting and applied it to a new subject. I intended to find a way to twist autobiographical conceptually over literal. My original plan was to ask several strangers if they wanted to go out for lunch with me, then make a playlist of their favorite songs, and ask to paint a portrait of them in an environment in which they felt comfortable in. The reality of this was much different, as I learned an abundant amount of information about myself and formed relationships with my subjects. I’m excited to present the finished collection of multi-disciplinary pieces along with the tale of my adventures at the Sorenson Spotlight this March.