University of Findlay Students to Showcase Their Work with Senior Art Exhibition

University of Findlay students will showcase their hard work from the field of graphic design. This year’s second senior art exhibition will go on display March 6^th in the Dudley and Mary Marks Lea Gallery, located in the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion. Logos, book covers, posters, t-shirt designs and more will be put on display for the public to see from March 6-16.

Over the past few years, students have been taking on projects for the University and local businesses, creating marketing materials, designing t-shirts, and the Senior Exhibition is their opportunity to showcase their hard work and skill sets. “Between installing the show and talking about their work, students get to experience, in a small way, what is expected of professional artists,” said Valerie Escobedo, MFA, University of Findlay Associate Professor of Art. “There is a definite sense of satisfaction when they get the work up on the walls of the gallery—it feels professional.”

Nolan O’Connell has never put any of his designs on display for the public, and is excited to showcase his Christian-based athletic clothing brand, Tetelestai Athletix. Some of his work includes photoshoots, hoodie designs, hats, and a college seal that resembles his brand. “It is a huge honor to be able to show off my work in the senior exhibition. I’m grateful for the opportunity to show what my brand is about and hopefully be able to convey and start conversations about the message that I am trying to spread,” said O’Connell.

Cassidy Martin will be showcasing the logos, posters, and t-shirt design that she created as a student and as an intern for the University of Findlay’s Office of Communication and Marketing. “I’m really excited for everyone to see my work. I’ve been doing a lot recently for clients and I’m excited to demonstrate my talents in the show,” Martin said. When it comes to graphic design, Martin loves the ability to be creative while helping clients promote their businesses. “I think graphic design is the perfect mix of professionalism and creativity. There are so many opportunities for designers because every business needs design work,” she said.

Olivia Carlton will be showcasing several book covers she designed with photographs she took, t-shirt designs she created, and a modern and simple logo she created for a museum. Carlton “loves” that she can display her work for family and friends to see, and thanks the University of Findlay for all her success. “When I was looking at schools, I wanted a smaller school. When I visited UF, I absolutely loved it,” Carlton said. “Because the graphic design program is smaller at UF, it allows for more personal relationships with the professors. They have been so encouraging and supportive throughout my time at UF, and I can’t thank them enough. We are like a little community on campus. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming.”

Escobedo echoed Carlton’s praises of a mentoring atmosphere, but also highlighted the hands-on opportunities students have. “Graphic design students visit local advertising agencies and print production companies annually. The art program also offers study trips to Chicago and New York. Art is, by its very nature, hands-on—so students get a lot of experience creating art and design work,” said Escobedo.

For more information on the University of Findlay’s Visual and Performing Arts programs, including graphic design, art, and children’s book illustration, visit the department’s webpage.