Artistic Expression at Orem High

[/media-credit] You can find Nik’s photography on Instagram at @Nikxcix

The importance of artistic expression in schools is something that government officials and our own school district take very seriously. “Art education refers to education in the disciplines of music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. Study in the arts is integral to our society,” said Bob Bryant, a representative of KATY ISU.

“Being able to practice your passion, hobbies and interests can also develop your self-esteem,” says ‘Daniel’, a reporter at the Parent Herald. Orem High takes Art education very seriously by offering multiple Art Education courses; such as Studio Art, Photography and Ceramics, as well as many more.

Photography at Orem High is a practice that many students have chosen to do both in class and out of it. Many students excel in this, but one of Orem High’s most well known photographers is Nik Roberts. At 17 Nik has accumulated over 1,100 followers on Instagram, thousands of ‘likes’ and over 50,000 views on his pages per week.

“Not every photographer is going to use social media. But in today’s society where anyone and everyone is on Instagram, it’s a great resource to take advantage of. You can get serious exposure through social media if you market yourself correctly.” said Nik.

Using his notoriety Nik has made a career using his artistic skill. He has been featured on the popular Instagram page ‘Instagood’ as well as naming him their ‘User of the Day.’ The post; which showcases Becca Valletta in a photograph taken by Nik has over 8,400 ‘likes’ and countless more views. It often takes Nik over 24 hours to shoot and edit his pictures from any specific photoshoot.

“Photography is important to me because it helped me get through my worst times and helped me create some of my best times. I’ve always loved creating art art photography has helped me do that.” said Nik.

Nik said; “I became a full time, paid photographer about a month ago when I quit my day job and started pursuing photography as a career.”

“My advice to young photographers would be to never stop shooting. Keep taking photos. Take a photo every day. Keep working and experimenting with your gear. The best way to learn is to practice. You need to develop a personal relationship with your camera. You have to know it inside and out.” Said Nik.

By using photography Nik has changed the course of his life and has helped others do the same through his artwork. “I would be a completely different person if I hadn’t taken up photography. I know for a fact that if I hadn’t gotten my first camera at the age of 13, I wouldn’t be where I am today as a person or as a photographer”

Nik added that parental support can make all the difference when it comes to pursuing your dreams, saying “I’d like to thank my parents for buying me my first camera and for always supporting me, through the good times and the bad. I wouldn’t be who I am without their constant support and love.”

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Amelia Allred

Staff writer

Amelia is a junior at Orem High School and is a first year student in Journalism. Amelia enjoys Netflix, naps, long walks through coffee shops, making lists, commas and coffee. She enjoys writing poetry and spends endless hours scrolling through Instagram.