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The “No Sleep Till Branded” student exhibition opening reception in the Active Project Space of the Switzer Gallery on Oct. 29 celebrated a collective of eight portfolios and displays from the Senior Studio Graphic Design course, required in the Dr. Marjan Mazza Bachelor of Applied Science in Business and Management, Graphic Design Management concentration degree.
Visual Arts Department Head Brian Weaver and graphic design instructors Joseph Bradford and Dr. Frank Donato said a few words to the audience and addressed the student artists directly. Donato said, “Completing a project on a scale of what you just finished isn’t just about skill; it’s about the willingness to push oneself and the awareness that sacrifices and compromises will need to be made. On top of that, the journey to finish can feel incredibly daunting at the start when the finish line feels so far away…with your senior show complete, you can look back on when this project felt overwhelming and when your mind was filled with doubt. Each time you face [the ways of adversity], you feel stronger and more resilient because you built a collection of memories of when you rose to the occasion.” Standing in front of photos of their displays, the student artists then explained the branding concepts for their products and services, thanking faculty, fellow students and family for supporting them through this process. Gallery Coordinator Chelsea Weaver then thanked all for attending to wrap up the presentation portion of the reception.
Many, including Pensacola State College President Ed Meadows, turned out for the event, taking time to visit each display, look through portfolios, and talk with the student artists as they enjoyed complimentary refreshments provided by the Visual Arts Department. With a successful show completed, the participating seniors undoubtedly earned their sleep after this branding project was accomplished.
“No Sleep Till Branded” will be on display in the Active Project Space of the Switzer Gallery from Oct. 14 through Dec. 6. This event is free and open to the public.