Taylor Brisueno started at AACC as a paramedic major … until her first biology class.
“I took human biology and realized possibly this was not for me,” she said. "I was passionate about helping people; I didn't care about the science behind it.”
A psychology class soon after was a revelation. Reflecting on her use of art as an outlet during inpatient hospitalizations and outpatient programs in a lifelong struggle with depression, Brisueno realized her drive to help people would translate naturally to art therapy.
“Being an art therapist gives you a way to help people express themselves, to channel what they feel into something that can help them," she said.
After dropping out of high school her sophomore year due to mental health struggles and hospitalizations, Brisueno started homeschooling along with college classes through AACC's Early College Access Program.
“All the teachers at AACC are great,” she said, noting that art professors have given space for creative expression while also providing relevant feedback. Brisueno, who goes by Remy as an artist’s name, said as a child she never had considered art to be a real part of her future. Her time at AACC has made it a real option.
Though currently studying oil, watercolor and 3D art, her favorite medium is acrylic. “I like the layering, but also, it’s the ultimate. I can just cover up my mistake,” she said.
Brisueno plans to graduate from AACC in 2027 with a studio arts degree, then enter an accelerated Art Therapy program with Notre Dame of Maryland University, where she will earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
She said she’s intimidated, but also excited to tackle the plan. “It’s the ultimate. To be a therapist like this is the best of both worlds.”
Brisueno was recently featured in the Afro-Futurism: A Legacy that Never Dies exhibit in the Pascal Center for Performing Arts (pictured above). See more of her work on her website.