Pre-College profile: Tony Ingrisano, Painting

Tony Ingrisano earned an MFA from Pratt Institute and is an associate professor in CIA's Painting Department. His work investigates the social and environmental structures that surround us and looks for new ways of visualizing these organizations. His work has shown in many group and solo exhibitions throughout New York and Cleveland, and he is represented by Lesley Heller Workspace in New York City. Recently, he answered a few questions for us about art, design and his 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?

Did you learn how to ride a bike, swim in a pool, and read a book? Painting is no different. With some practice and determination, anyone can be a great painter!

What do you love about your specific discipline?

What do I love about painting? Creating whole new worlds from my imagination.

What do you think it means to be a real artist?

A solo show at the MoMA. Or getting up every single morning and working furiously in the studio, no matter how bleak things look. You choose.

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

The most difficult thing about being an artist is being your own support system.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were in high school?

Life gets better.

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