Capstone Experience for BFA Graphic Design Students at USU
In the academic world, there are differences within degree categories, and in the humanities — especially the arts — a bachelor’s of fine art degree, the BFA, is considered a professional degree that requires additional work. Art students at Utah State University who receive the BFA degree this spring are planning a series of year-end exhibitions to showcase their art.
Among the BFA students are those in the graphic design program in the Department of Art. Their work will be showcased in two sessions Tuesday, April 28, in activities at USU’s Chase Fine Arts Center (approximately 1110 E. 610 North, Logan). The students’ electronic portfolios can be seen in an Interactive Show from 3:30-5:30 p.m. in the Tippetts Gallery of the Chase Fine Arts Center, and print portfolios are seen in the Print Showcase from 6-8 p.m. in the Chase Fine Arts Center courtyard, weather permitting. The Tippetts Gallery is the alternative location in the event of poor weather conditions.
The Print Showcase is the highlight of the one-day event and all are invited. Those viewing the students’ portfolios will be treated to live music and refreshments.
“The BFA exhibition is the capstone course for BFA candidates in graphic design,” said faculty member Dave Smellie. “Although I help coordinate the event, the exhibition is completely designed and created by the students and gives them an opportunity to present their design work to a public audience. The students have created a fun event, but it’s a great opportunity for design professionals to review the excellent work this group has produced during their studies at USU.”
Angella Arakaki is a senior participating in the BFA show. She designed and programmed a game in Flash, then created packaging for the game. Her work is an example of the diversity of ideas, items and products created by students in the graphic design area.
“You can define my work as being colorful, imaginative or animated,” Arakaki said. “Luckily, my professors at USU encourage design students to showcase as much individuality in their work as possible. I think one of the best things you can offer as a designer is a fresh perspective, something really unique, sprinkled with a little bit of good typography, form, precision and a punch of color.”
Arakaki has studied at USU for the past two years after transferring from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She said she has loved her time at USU. Among the lessons learned?
“Hard work pays off, and I think it really shows,” she said.
Smellie encourages everyone to attend the BFA graphic design showcase.
“People should attend the BFA exhibition if they are interested in the graphic design program at USU, looking to hire designers or just want to have a good time,” he said. “Those graduating have worked hard to develop their portfolios and I’m convinced it will help them get good jobs, even in this tough economy. They know what they’re up against, and I think it’s lit a fire underneath them to do their best work. Come see for yourself.”
Contact: Dave Smellie, davesmellie@gmail.com
Source: Graphic Design program
Source: Graphic Design program
Students earning the BFA degree in graphic design showcase their work at the Chase Fine Arts Center April 28. Check it out.
The package design for a game by Angella Arakaki is included. She designed and programmed a game in Flash, then created packaging for the game. Her work is included in the showcase.
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