YSU senior Lindsay DeLullo blends art and community: leaving a lasting impression on the greater Youngstown area’s art scene

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Lindsay DeLullo, an Interdisciplinary Studio Art major at Youngstown State University with an emphasis in painting and printmaking, is preparing to graduate this December. As she approaches the finish line of her undergraduate studies, DeLullo reflects on how YSU has helped shape her artistic vision and develop the skills and connections that will guide her career in the arts.

DeLullo, who grew up in Poland, Ohio, has always been drawn to the beauty of her hometown’s landscapes. Her art is deeply influenced by Poland’s local flora. "I’m partial to painting and printmaking...I hold a sense of devotion and awe towards the flora of my hometown, which drives me to portray it,” she stated. It’s this personal connection to her environment that inspires much of her artwork, while a community-focused theme resonates in her local mural projects.

Currently, DeLullo is working on a mural project on Mahoning Avenue, a continuation of her involvement in the community’s growing mural scene. "The mural on Andrews Avenue was a real turning point for me," she explained. "It was a commercial project, and after it was completed, patrons came to us for more murals in the area." She remains committed to creating work that connects with the community.

Throughout her time at YSU, DeLullo has refined her skills in the university’s art facilities, which she credits for her artistic development. "The equipment here has really helped me push my work to a further level," she said. "At YSU, I’ve learned to think about my work not just as a visual piece, but as a medium to communicate a message. It’s about what you want to say and how you say it."

YSU has also provided DeLullo with invaluable opportunities, including a study abroad experience in Scotland focused on printmaking, an internship at the Butler Institute of American Art, and a part-time position the McDonough Museum of Art.

"The positions at Butler and McDonough have really shaped my professional life. They taught me about the nuances of art handling and exhibition installation, and working with curators like Claudia Berlinski [who is the museum director at McDonough] helped me understand the behind-the-scenes work that’s critical to the museum industry," she explained.

DeLullo has received several awards and recognitions for her work from events like the Student Art Association’s annual juried exhibition and over 30 various community exhibitions in Pennsylvania and Ohio. These experiences, she says, have allowed her to build a network within the industry and develop a greater appreciation for the art community.

"Being accepted or declined from an exhibition is a huge character-building experience. You take the feedback, grow from it, and continue developing your craft," she said.

After graduation, DeLullo is considering furthering her education with a master's degree, but she first plans to take a break from school to focus on her craft. In her words, "I want to take some time to create freely and develop some personal projects.” She is eager to continue contributing to the local creative scene and pursuing opportunities that align with her passion for creating meaningful, impactful art.

DeLullo’s journey at YSU has been as much about developing technical skills as it has been about building community. "I would advise other art students at YSU to take full advantage of the strong support system here," she said. "The connections with other students, the equipment, and the ability to engage with the community are all vital. Don’t be afraid of fresh eyes and constructive criticism—it only makes your work stronger."