Avatar has two distinct meanings. In Hinduism and Buddhism, it means the physical appearance of a god. Online, it means a picture of a person or an animal that represents a particular user. How do both definitions describe an identity that is distinct from the original and yet intensely connected to it at the same time? In Integrative Studio 1, we will explore a range of visual, analytical, and making skills while working on projects that are collaborative and cross-disciplinary. We will work independently and in teams to explore research, prototyping, and the creative process. How do we make sense of our ideas, the information we collect, and our hunches and theories? And what can this inquiry tell us about why we make certain decisions as creative thinkers? The studio integrates learning from other first year courses, especially in thematic links to Integrative Seminar 1. At various times in the semester, the two classes share concepts and assignments, bringing together reading, writing, and making in a manner that is essential to the creative work of professional artists and designers.