Getting a show at The Metropolitan is a dream of some of the world’s most distinguished artists. At 18, Cliffanie Forrester has already checked it off of her bucket list.
The teen is a Brooklyn High School graduate who has critics from all over marveling at her work. ‘Uganda’, a piece inspired by a trip to the country, landed her the prestigious opportunity.
WHO JUST COMPLETED THEIR LIFE GOAL AT AGE 18? ME. AS OF 6/14/16 MY PIECE IS IN THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART. pic.twitter.com/18ejqWmhvV
— cliff (@civilwarcliff) June 14, 2016
Along with the honor of having her work viewed at one of the most famous art museums in the country, Forrester also received an $1000 scholarship to go towards college.
In an interview with Fusion, Forrester opened up about facing rejection and being discouraged after getting turned down by multiple art schools. For young artist everywhere, she offered priceless advice, “Don’t be discouraged. And when you’re discouraged, always stay true to who you are. Also, don’t compare yourself to other artists—I used to do that when I was a junior or sophomore. I would spend time comparing myself, like, “Why can’t I do that? Why can’t I do this?” But it just takes determination to achieve those goals you want. You can do and be anything you want to.”
Forrester will be a part of an art showing titled P.S. Art 2016: Celebrating the Creative Spirit of NYC Kids. Her story and others like it will be showcased at The Met and run until October 23.
