Kelsey E. Ross Application for University of Minnesota Masters of Landscape Architecture I  

As an undergrad, I co-managed Carleton’s student organic farm. I expanded the farm to over an acre and a half, and designed a functional space with an outdoor shower, kitchen, and food prep area. The farm served as a community gathering place, a classroom for local summer camps, and studio for artists. Produce was sold at local farmers markets and to campus dining services, and surplus donated to the local food shelf.

gestural figure drawing charcoal

In drawing the human form, I am interested in exploring a sense of weight and movement. Drawing from life and short form models has taught me to quickly analyze and record and visual information.

gestural figure drawings charcoal, conte, chalk

gestural figure drawing charcoal

Figure study graphite, conte

Figure study graphite

Still life watercolor

Still life chalk pastel

Bones, glass and reflective objects appear frequently as subject matter in my still lifes. I am drawn to the challenge of visually documenting these forms, which are easily abstracted.

Figure study watercolor, gouache

Still life chalk pastel

Still life graphite

Still lifes charcoal, conte, graphite

Landscape drawings, ink, graphite, conte

Snow landscape series medium format film

This series explores the geometry of Midwestern agrarian landscapes. The lack of contrast between snow and sky compresses vistas into simplified, graphical components.