My name is Amanda Noel Coburn. (she/her) (b. 1988) I am a TRIO McNair Scholar working towards my Honors Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art with minors in art history and history from Idaho State University.
I aim to prove that the starving artist stereotype is outdated and to demonstrate that being an artist, an academic, and an entrepreneur results in a rewarding life. A decade from now, I will serve the art and design community by developing my practice, instructing at the collegiate level, and sustaining my small business.
But let's rewind—after a decade as a professional graphic designer for corporations in the social advocacy, tech, and entertainment industries, I founded my studio in 2022, where I design and illustrate for brands and artists. Recognizing that my competitors are fellow freelancers, generative AI, and my self-imposed limitations, I decided to invest in the skills that will differentiate my business by blending traditional art techniques with my 14 years of design experience.
Pausing my business to enroll in the art program at Idaho State University is challenging yet rewarding. Last fall I was accepted to the TRIO McNair Scholars Program and the ISU Honors Program. Throughout 2025 I am developing my research-based critical and creative visual thesis project with my mentors. I will represent ISU by presenting my thesis at state and national conferences. Then, I will pursue a Master of Fine Arts after I graduate in May 2027, becoming the first in my family to earn an advanced degree.
Want to get in touch? Collaborate on a project? Say hi: amandacoburn (at) isu.edu
Are you also lying in a meadow of spent dandelions guarded by shivering aspen leaves, staring into the dying light as you mouth along to the chorus of Mitski's “Your Best American Girl?” Let's be friends.