Art Alumna Credits UVA Wise With Shaping Her Career

Meet Kandee Wallace, a 2014 alumna who majored in art with a minor in business administration. Today, she is a freelance artist and the owner of Wallace Dance Academy in Coeburn, Virginia.

Originally from Dante, Virginia, Wallace chose UVA Wise for a college experience where she could be as involved as she wanted—and involved she was. From cheerleading and illustrating for the Highland Cavalier newspaper to participating in Greek life, she made the most of her time on campus.

When deciding on a major, she thought of her grandfather.

“Before UVA Wise, I had no formal art education. I learned from my grandfather, who was a self-taught artist,” Wallace said. “Majoring in art helped me become a more confident artist who is truly passionate about my subjects. When I look back at my art from when I started college versus when I graduated, I can see tremendous growth in every aspect of my work.”

Wallace credits UVA Wise Assistant Professor of Art Misty Stratton for helping her develop as an artist.

“I met her my very first semester in one of my introductory classes. I really enjoyed her teaching style and the way she genuinely cared about her students. After such a great experience with her my freshman year, I made it a point to take as many of her classes as I could,” Wallace said.

From a stunning landscape mural in St. Paul, Virginia, to several “selfie spot” installations in Norton, her artwork is spread throughout the region.

“The older I get, the more I realize that I can use my degree to do things I truly enjoy. College taught me how to manage my time effectively so I can get work done while avoiding burnout. I wouldn’t be the artist I am today without UVA Wise, and for that, I am so thankful,” Wallace added.

If you’re out and about this spring season, stop by one of Kandee’s murals for a selfie!