Art is the expression of human thought and creative skill. The desire to create has given the world some of the most amazing art pieces in history. Lakeland has an art program dedicated to providing aspiring artists with both instruction and opportunities to showcase their skills.

Before making the turn on County A towards the college in Howards Grove, missing Lakeland’s most recent art piece is almost impossible. The billboard glows in the sunshine and is a production of former Lakeland student Tyler Holman.

“I was approached by (Professor of Writing) Jeff Elzinga to illustrate concepts intended for billboards,” said Holman.

Elzinga and Holman then traded ideas for the project. Holman ultimately illustrated six concepts for the project.

“Some ideas were (Elzinga)’s, while some ideas were mine,” said Holman. “(Elzinga) presented the concepts to (President of Lakeland College) Dan Eck, and we moved forward with a project marketing Lakeland College sports.”

When asked what his motivation was to take on the project, Holman described himself as an opportunist.

“I’m always seeking opportunities,” said Holman. “Opportunities (paid or not) grant me experience that will help me excel in the field that I went to school for.”

While Holman cannot pinpoint the exact age that he began enjoying art, he does remember being young when it started to burn into a passion.

“The passion and drive to create continued to expand, (and caused me to explore) other creative vendors like writing and music,” said Holman.

In creating his art, Holman has many inspirations that range from movies, school, music and other artists, as well as his own idea about what being an artist means.

“I wouldn’t necessarily perceive the idea of ‘becoming an artist’ as a want, but rather a need,” said Holman. “When I create, I proceed with a type of aggression that seems almost natural. For me, creating feels correct, empowering and personable; it’s a motive to explore yourself and evolve into a better communicator.”

With this motivation and passion, Holman became an outstanding art student and has received positive as well as negative criticism throughout his college career. He continues polishing up his artistic abilities.

When asked if he had any advice for aspiring artists at Lakeland College, he said, “There is no correct or incorrect way of creating. There are elements of creation that should be seen as guidance, helping the artist share what they intend to communicate. Understand and master the elements of creation and continue to evolve. Art is a very competitive field. Challenge yourself and your surrounding environment.”