“x-height” is just one of these upcoming exhibits. Kendra Smith said the senior graphic design exhibition is meant to represent the starting point of the future careers of the eleven participating students.
“Graphic design is not always featured in shows, so it is even more beneficial that we learn the process through this experience in school,” said Smith, a senior majoring in graphic design. “I personally had no idea about all of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating and promoting an exhibit. Everyone has really used their skills gained in the program to step out-of-the-box and create work they’re really passionate about.”
Smith’s contribution to “x-height” includes branding elements for a fictional design museum called the Grand Rapids Institute of Design (GRID), including visitor guides, tickets, membership cards, a mock website and more.
“From a young age, I have always enjoyed visiting museums and gaining more knowledge,” said Smith. “I also have not had the opportunity yet to create design work for a public space, so I wanted to challenge myself to try something new.”
Justin Nienhuis, a senior studio art major with an emphasis on jewelry making and metalsmithing, said his solo exhibit revolves around 100 questions he asked himself while contemplating his showcase.
“I just wanted to be aware of what I was thinking about while I was creating my work,” said Nienhuis, from Holland. “In my show, I explore how a vessel could be formed in metal versus ceramics.”
“Control and Creativity (100 Questions I Asked Myself)” will showcase 20 works by Nienhuis, mostly consisting of pieces created from copper, brass, bronze and nickel silver.
Nienhuis said the Visual and Media Arts Department helped him develop the skills necessary to succeed in his future career.
“GVSU has some amazing professors, like Beverly Seley, the head of the jewelry and metalsmithing program,” said Nienhuis. “The art program has really been formed to help students learn how to not only make art, but also prepare us for being professional artists in the future by teaching skills like how to build a resume, website, and professional portfolio, and how to apply for grants.”
Below is a full list of upcoming senior thesis exhibitions:
x-height
Senior graphic design exhibition
Exhibition dates: April 9-12
Art Gallery, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Reception: April 12, from 5-7 p.m.
Control and Creativity (100 Questions I Asked Myself)
Senior BFA thesis exhibit by Justin Neinhuis, jewelry and metalsmithing major
Exhibition dates: April 9-12
Padnos Student Gallery, Calder Art Center, Allendale Campus
Reception: April 12, from 5-7 p.m.
Emerge
Senior illustration thesis exhibition
Exhibition dates: April 14-May 18
Nomad Galleries by Richard App, 74 Monroe Center Street NW, Grand Rapids
*Hours by appointment
Reception: April 14, from 5-9 p.m.
Teammates How Do/The Wall is Not Solid/how to ollie
Three senior visual studies exhibitions
Exhibition dates: April 16-22 (Monday-Thursday, from 5-9 p.m.)
106 Division Avenue South
Receptions: April 20, from 6-9 p.m.; April 21 and 22, from 2-5 p.m.
Fractal
Senior photography thesis exhibition
Exhibition dates: April 17-27
Art Gallery, Haas Center, Allendale Campus
Reception: April 19, from 5-7 p.m.
Film and Video Spring Showcase
April 24, from 7-10 p.m.
Loosemore Auditorium, DeVos Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
For more information, contact the Visual and Media Arts Department at (616) 331-3486.
