Lara Saunders (b. 2001) was raised between Germany and New York City. Upon moving to the city, Lara was introduced to the teachings of GCA and was encouraged to attend her first part time class at age 12.  Her fascination with the works of the old masters became a source of inspiration through high school and drove her to attend the full time program in 2018. During her formative years at the academy, she became the recipient of various grants and scholarships including the ARC Brian Yoder Memorial Award and the Structure Prix Award at GCA. She lives and works in Brooklyn, NY.