Autumn Cisco

2025 Visual Arts Scholarship Recipient

Autumn, an artist from Springfield, Missouri, has long used visual art as her primary form of expression. Since she was old enough to hold a crayon, art has allowed her to communicate emotions and ideas that words couldn’t fully capture. Whether drawing, painting, or sculpting, creating brings her peace and connection. Her parents recognized the significance of her creativity early on, and for Autumn, making art has felt like a calling ever since.

Balancing her passion for art with a strong commitment to academics, Autumn has consistently challenged herself, taking only honors and AP classes in high school. She values learning just as much as creating and never puts in less than her full effort. After the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, she sought out meaningful ways to stay engaged, often turning to her sketchbook or paintbrush to combat boredom and stay inspired when other resources were limited.

With the support of the Anthony Quinn Foundation, Autumn will attend the Kansas City Art Institute’s PCAL: Painting program this summer. The opportunity to study with experienced instructors, explore new media, and work on larger projects will expand her artistic practice in ways not possible at home, moving her one step closer to a lifelong creative career.