Name: Sindy Helena Stilwell
Graduation Year: 2017
Major: BFA Studio Art
Current Position: Muralist
City and State: Springfield, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
I am a muralist and portrait painter based in Springfield, MO.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
The Italy Trip!
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Evangel helped build my worldview to keep God as the center of my work. I will not paint or create anything that goes against my belief in Christ. Furthermore, self employment allows me to choose wisely the projects I want to take on.
Also, as a woman it’s difficult to raise a family and maintain a career. Painting murals allows me to have the best of both worlds!
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
Remove all distractions, this time is perfect to build up your portfolio. Don’t waste any time to get started.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Building relationships is very important when starting a mural business. Try to make as many meaningful connections. You can learn a lot from your peers, and eventually they might hire you for jobs!
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
I need to work with artists who are self-starters—people who take initiative, stay motivated, and don’t give up easily. They should be creative problem-solvers who can think outside the box and approach challenges with a solution-focused mindset, seeing obstacles as opportunities to innovate and grow.