nik rye

Why FSU?

The MFA in Studio Art program at FSU encourages intermedial experimentation and a focus on research-driven art practices. At times, my art practice is controversial, but I have managed to build a creative foundation I can refer to for the rest of my life. As I leave FSU, the feedback I received from professors in and out of the College of Fine Arts will continue to shape my future.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

As an artist and activist with a unique background, I believe in implementing positive change. With an MFA, I can affect much more, whether that be people, culture, or legislation. An MFA also allows me the chance to educate young artists. As a social practice artist, I believe education and art to be synonymous with activism, as all are truth-seeking practices.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

During my time at FSU, I have created several projects dedicated to the unhoused communities within Tallahassee. My artwork is often discussing literal life and death as consequences in a society that does not value all lives. As a previously houseless person, I have sought not only to represent intersectional underserved populations but also to provide aid to them. My research and practice encourage direct action by the larger community as acts of radical love in which poetry is easily gleaned.

Career aspirations

My time at Florida State has been full of complex experiences, both depressing and inspiring. It is these experiences that have propelled my aspirations toward education, community projects, nonprofit design, and research-oriented lectures and writings.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

If you are considering graduate school, be sure you have a well of passion for the field in which you wish to enter. It will challenge you in ways you have never considered, but if you are able to remain committed to your research, the rewards will be immeasurable.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I received a couple of awards from FSU: Legacy Fellowship, Student Excellence in the Arts Finalist, Outstanding Teaching Assistant Nominee, Academic Leadership Award, Adelaide Wilson Award, Allies 4 Art Award, Ada Belle Winthrop-King Visual Arts Endowment, Ann Kirn Scholarship, Silver Addy, Civil Disobedience Medal.

I also founded Tally Community Aid. I published on the front page of the Tallahassee Democrat for my performance, "7 Days a Diamond." I completed other successful public performances, including "Keith Stafford Was Murdered." I have also been a community activist and facilitator of many rallies and town halls.

I was a speaker at the Arts Education and Social Justice Symposium; a StoryCorps Liason; a speaker at the Fellows Society Luncheons; a co-curator of "All About Love" alongside Camille Modesto; co-curator of my class exhibitions, "i think you should leave" and "Re/Fract"; artist in 621 Gallery Exhibition "Hold for Discussion"; artist in 621 Gallery Members' Exhibition.