From Point Park University to New York City: B.F.A. Photography Alumna's Work Featured in Times Square
Meet Sharimar Y. Cruz '18 (Sycroix)
- Job Title & Employer
- Self-Employed/Freelance Photographer
- Major/Program
- Photography
- Hometown
- St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands
- High School
- St. Croix Educational Complex
- Dream Job
- Well-established photographer
- Hobbies & Interests
- I am a very adventurous person and enjoy spending time in nature — hiking, jet skiing, horseback riding, etc.
"I had very little knowledge of the art world when I applied to Point Park. I began my journey with an interest in photography and Point Park helped turn it into my passion. The B.F.A. program provided me with the knowledge I needed to succeed in this industry."
Your work was recently featured in Times Square. Tell us more about that recognition.
This was a surreal and unexpected experience. I never imagined that I would land a freelancing opportunity from my small hometown in St. Croix. My hard work and determination paid off and an incredible opportunity became available. I am grateful that I had the chance to photograph Teyana Taylor and showcase my work in Times Square. Teyana is an artist who is well known in the music and fashion industry and someone I admire.
What have you been up to professionally since graduating from Point Park University?
I earned a master's degree from the School of Visual Arts after Point Park University. While in grad school, I had the opportunity to intern for Chris Buck, a New York-based photographer. Additionally, I worked as a fashion assistant at Interview Magazine and as an active gallery assistant at a privately-owned gallery in Soho. I'm currently a freelance photographer in my hometown working with clients in New York like Moscot and Kith.
How has Point Park's B.F.A. in photography program helped you advance in your career?
I had very little knowledge of the art world when I applied to Point Park. I began my journey with an interest in photography and Point Park helped turn it into my passion. The B.F.A. program provided me with the knowledge I needed to succeed in this industry.
What are some of your favorite Point Park memories as a photography major?
My favorite memories are the trips the photography majors took to Washington, D.C. and New York. Being exposed to different artists and mediums helped open my eyes as an artist.
What inspires you as an artist?
Life, experiences and people. And most importantly, my culture — this is the root of it all for me.
What advice do you have to prospective students?
I will share advice from Matt Adams, my instructor for Black and White Photography at Point Park: "Stay on your bus and keep going."
Connect with Sharimar Y. Cruz '18 (Sycroix)
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