My name is Luca Makarushka-Napp, and I’m originally from Durham, North Carolina. I came to Worcester to attend WPI and now live and work here for most of the year. My original passion for art manifested in a love of music when I began playing the Violin in 3rd grade. This opened my eyes to the importance of connecting with people beyond just words and conversations. Although I no longer play as regularly as I once did for 11 years, The importance of thought-provoking and creative communication as persisted in my studies regarding public policy, technology, and their interaction. Art can allow you to reach and connect with those who might be less open to a traditional dialogue and evoke emotion and passion where there was none. These days, my engagement with art is far more digital than traditional or musical. Receiving a DSLR camera during my freshman year sparked a passion for photography. Paired with courses in graphic design and digital art, I have the skills not only to capture meaningful moments but also how to display and integrate them. The connections possible through art were especially important to me during my sophomore year while recovering from reconstructive ACL surgery, which I injured while playing for the WPI Club Ultimate Team. Usually, my inability to play would have disconnected me from the team, but instead, I would show up with my camera to practices and games to capture moments of my teammates’ prowess and success. This made it very clear the power of art for connecting with others. Beyond art, I have always had an interest in electronics. I would always disassemble any broken tech just to examine what was inside, I built my computer in middle school and had a concentration in electrical and computer engineering as part of my bachelor’s. After college, I want to do global work, ensuring that new technologies and innovations are implemented in a holistic and accessible way to better society. I see a problematic disconnect between policymakers who dictate how technology is implemented and the scientists and engineers who actually understand how it works. I hope to be someone who can bridge this gap, and I know art will be an invaluable tool to create understanding between these groups. Beyond professional applications, art in all its many forms, from photography to graphic design to music, is a passion of mine and something I enjoy engaging with. With light art’s mix of electronic, digital, and physical mediums, I am excited to learn a new way to connect with others.

Portfolio includes a sample photography magazine and Ultimate Frisbee highlights video made for art classes last year and an Assistive drumming device made for an electrical engineering class. Also included are some favorite photos taken in Morocco during IQP and in Acadia National Park.