Artist Statement

My name is James Rodriguez and I am currently pursuing a degree in both Computer Science and Film. I always look towards my family as my motivation, especially during times where my work, in any field, seems to reach a dead end. Simply writing a statement of myself created this block that would halt progression. However, I look upon how others would persevere through times like these in order for me to pick up where I left off. I am currently attempting, and unfortunately am lacking in, creating live streams of me playing video games as I see this as a form of expressing my interests towards others.

I always admired my high school teacher, Mr. Suriel from Forest Hills High School, who has linked my curiosity of technology and storytelling being able to coexist as one. For hours at a time, I would meet up with him to discuss an assortment of things; it would even reach a point where we would talk about our favorite games and films. I would always see him as a mentor and a friend who would inspire me to continue in what I enjoy rather than make others happy.

Video games have been a constant flow of inspiration in which had actually influenced me to take classes in film last semester. Not only do the constant hours of dedication and effort show into one's own work, it is also the ability to tie in a story that can dictate its flow and influence emotions. Simply saying that I am interested in video games would not suffice how an interactive form of art can move so many individuals to this day. I am interested in showing how everything that connects a game together is able to allow people develop new ideas and the ability for them to express themselves.