As children, many of us loved to dress, act, and pretend to be Disney characters. Freshwoman Joelle Joyner showed her love for these characters by drawing princes and princesses at a very young age. This small pastime led her to realize that art was something she adored.

Joyner shaped her skills and broadened her expertise to portraits and still life drawings that amaze everyone who sees them. Each summer, she attends summer programs at Cranbrook’s Art Institute to advance her skills and to spend time doing what she loves. Joyner plans to take AP Art as a senior and wishes to pursue drawing as a minor in college.

“Art helps me express inner beauty,” Joyner said.  Some of her drawings have been showcased in auctions at the Sky Line Club in Southfield and The Cranbrook Institute of Art.

Although Joyner’s work received some publicity, she did not think that her work would be noticed by a celebrity. However, her drawing of Renee Bhagwandeen, America’s Next Top Model candidate, became so popular on Instagram that she received an exciting proposal from the model herself. Bhagwandeen wanted to hire Joyner in early August to draw an illustration for an anti-bullying ad campaign. Joyner is still considering the offer.

So, how does she do it? Like most artists, Joyner cannot start without inspiration. She looks to magazines and illustrations for ideas. Once she sees something that catches her eye, the magic begins.

“The first thing [I] do is outline the face. Then I… start with the eyes,” Joyner said. “I think the eyes are the most important.” After, she fills in the realistic details.

“I’ve been told by many people that I am good at what I do, but I want to become better,” said Joyner. “People don’t think I need classes but I know I can always improve.”