Admissions
Programs
Student Life
About PNCA
Initiatives

Meet the Artists

Alfredo Lettenmaier

— BFA Student —

Alfredo Lettenmaier is discovering his calling. A freshman photography major, Lettenmaier is amazed at the world opening up to him.

The work of photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Diane Arbus inspire Lettenmaier to educate people about other cultures through photography.

“Many people believe that going to school to learn art is absurd, a waste of time,” Lettenmaier says. “But by going to an art school, you learn different ways in which you can use art as a tool to teach.”

Sisters, by Alfredo Lettenmaier

Lettenmaier is the first person in his family to attend college. His father graduated high school, his mother attended school in Guatemala until sixth grade. His older brother has his GED. While Lettenmaier believes education happens outside of school too, he wanted to “try something different and see where a college education could take me.”

Like many high school students, Lettenmaier was unclear about his future. But in a senior photography class, something clicked. “I’ve been learning to look at the world in different ways,” he says. “There are so many lifestyles, cultures and environments that are part of our small world. By practicing art, I am not concerned with myself, there are more important things to think about.”

flowersWinter Flowers, by Alfredo Lettenmaier

The Oregon Opportunity Grant — along with scholarships and loans — give Lettenmaier hope. With a family income below the poverty line, Lettenmaier was scared. Would he be able to pursue photography?

“I think the problems that face art students are similar to the problems of any college student — lack of time and money,” he says. “Without financial aid, I wouldn’t be here at PNCA talking to you now.”

In the future, Lettenmaier wants to work in the competitive field of photography. His education at PNCA is vital. But he still asks himself, “Will I have enough money to continue my college education?” He urges legislators to continue their support of the Oregon Opportunity Grant. “It’s helped my family and it’s helps me,” he says.