My name is Gabriella Uma Niru Elena Poulsen. I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. I am mixed race, my mother is Indian and my father is South American and Danish. Aside from my heritage, I pride myself on my drive and my passions. Prior to attending the University of Nevada, Reno, I attended a STEM school. Despite this, I always had an acute curiosity for art. I found myself squeezing in art courses when I could, being awestruck in the museums I visited, constantly doodling in the margins of my assignments, and more. Art moved and inspired me more than anything I learned in my STEM education. During my senior year of high school, while the world was knee deep in COVID-19 quarantine, I decided to pursue art.

My need to create art often begins with consuming something that resonates with me heavily. I want my work to be a celebration of the elements that play a bigger part in society, whether it’s through entertainment and joy or through challenging the viewpoints of others. When I choose a subject to create a piece for, I research it to no end. Each project is an opportunity to grow as a designer and as a person. In the future, I hope to create work that moves people. I want to contribute to projects that are powerful and beautiful—ones that inspire people and push them to be creative, use their voices, and pursue their dreams.