Author Class Level
Senior
Author Bio
My name is Brianna Calderón, and I am a senior biology major with minors in Pre-Health, Public Health, and Studio Art. While completing my pre-med track and conducting research in social behavior and cancer, I’ve realized my passion lies in interactive media and video game design. After college, I will pursue a master’s in this field working towards a phD, integrating my STEM background into game narratives and mechanics. Through my work, including The Artist Was A Sadist, I aim to challenge the misconception that art is an ‘easy’ discipline and highlight its essential role in storytelling, innovation and identity.
First Page
43
Last Page
43
Abstract
Artist Statement
"'The Artist Is A Sadist' explores the intersection of artistic creation, suffering, and control. As someone balancing a rigorous science curriculum, research demands, and external expectations, I grew frustrated when art was dismissed as a ‘break’ or an ‘easier’ pursuit. Cause in reality, creativity is difficult—creation is painful, even cruel, but it’s a necessary cruelty. This piece depicts a girl stabbing herself in the abdomen like a martyr while maintaining composure, ready for an audience that underestimates the discipline and depth of art. Through this work, I wanted to confront the uncomfortable truth of being a student torn between passion and obligation—but handling both well anyways."
Recommended Citation
Calderon, Brianna
(2025)
"The Artists Is A Sadist,"
Digressions: Literary & Art Journal: Vol. 22, Article 42.
Available at:
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/digressions/vol22/iss1/42
Additional Summary to the submitted artwork(Behind the Painting)
ORCID ID
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-5335-9692
