Darian Mihalakis ’27
As you walk through the halls of EA’s Campus Center, paintings, sculptures, mosaics and more add life to the building. But who is responsible for these bright works of art? Many of these works can be attributed to Tatum Schmedlen ’25—a talented artist who utilizes different mediums and focuses for her pieces and excels in uncertainty.
Schmedlen’s love for art began her freshman year, when she was introduced to art through EA’s Foundations of Art course. “What really excited me was the chance to explore so many different mediums at once and combine them,” she explains. This initial spark developed into a deep commitment to art, leading her to take as many art classes as possible and even pursue summer programs.
After her sophomore year, Schmedlen participated in a six-week program at Cardiff Valley, diving into various mediums. “We did everything—paintings, drawings, sculptures,” she shares. “One of their main focuses was redefining what art is, which helped me improve my conceptual skills.”
Schmedlen’s creativity sets her apart. “She’s innately talented and creative,” says Upper School 3D design teacher Hilary Hutchison. Classmate Genevieve Wylonis ’25 agrees: “She has a lot of great ideas, and her pieces are always very imaginative.”
Hard work and determination further define Schmedlen. “She’s incredibly hardworking and doesn’t give up, even when faced with challenges,” Schmedlen’s sister Lindy Schmedlen ’27 adds. Abigail Whitman ’25 echoes this sentiment: “She’s a really hard worker and constantly pushes herself.”
Schmedlen’s versatility as an artist is evident in her use of diverse techniques and mediums. “She incorporates a lot of realism and strong technical skills,” observes Wylonis. For Ashley Foppa ’25, Schmedlen’s use of color is particularly striking: “Her work has a thermal quality, with reds and blues that create a unique, almost otherworldly effect.”
Photo courtesy of Tatum Schmedlen ’25
Schmedlen’s ability to work across mediums—from pen and pencil to oil painting and digital art—is equally impressive. “She’s taken Honors 3D for three years and works on everything from casting bronze to woodworking,” says Whitman. Hutchison notes her evolving style, adding, “She’s developed confidence and even incorporates humor into her pieces.”
STEM also influences Schmedlen’s art. “I’m in robotics and interested in STEM,” she says. “A lot of my work explores the intersection of mechanical and robotic themes with nature.”
Schmedlen’s portfolio showcases her talent and creativity across styles and materials. From a detailed pen drawing of a cathedral to a heartfelt forest painting for her mom, her pieces reflect a deep passion for her craft.
The depth and nuance of Schmedlen’s work are products of her genuine passion for the craft. Her projects, spanning diverse materials, styles, and influences, reflect a unique blend of thoughtfulness and ingenuity. From her cathedral pen drawing to a forest painting for her mother, each piece carries a narrative that goes beyond the surface—one that’s imbued with her personal vision and relentless drive.