Pre-College profile: Jen Kerbo, Biomedical Art

Jennifer Kerbo graduated from the Cleveland Institute of Art with a BFA degree in Biomedical Art. She is currently the lead artist for a cardiovascular simulation at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in the Department of Anatomy. She has also begun work on a large-scale educational game focusing on environmental issues and intergenerational learning. Recently, she answered a few questions for us about art, design and her Pre-College course.

What would you say to a student who is excited—but a little nervous—about taking your Pre-College class this summer?

I would tell them not to worry so much! I’ve had students who have never taken an art class before and were able to complete all of the assignments. We start every project with the basics, and with the help of the teaching assistants, we give each student as much individual attention as possible.

What do you love about your specific discipline?

I love the fact that I am always learning something new. This could relate to something about the human body with a particular case or it could mean keeping up to date with the newest software which allows me to create my art.

Tell us about one moment or event when you were aware of feeling really successful or happy in your work.

The project I completed for my BFA defense was an animation for the Alzheimer's Association. I will never forget when I showed the animation during the Northeast Ohio regional meeting for the families and patients, which turned out to be over 200 people. Individuals, mostly who were family members of people with Alzheimer's disease, came up to me in tears. They talked about how much it meant to see something that represented them and educated people about the disease.

What’s the most difficult thing about being an artist?

I believe the most difficult part about being an artist is also what makes it so interesting—you are always working to better yourself. I think a lot of people don’t appreciate the amount of time and energy it takes to be a great artist. It’s somewhat of a cliché, but it’s true—the learning does not stop once school ends. A good artist is always keeping up with their skills, learning new programs or techniques, and researching their field.

To learn more about Pre-College, including the Biomedical Art course, click here.