Class of 2020 Portfolio Exhibition
When our 2020 senior design students selected Explore the Undiscovered as the theme for their exhibition, no one knew just how unimaginable their journey would be. The process challenged their creativity and flexibility and has resulted in a set of virtual galleries representing 4-years of study and devotion to their craft. The energy and perseverance required to move from the planned gallery exhibition to the virtual one is noteworthy and the Concordia University Art Faculty are very proud of the work our seniors have done. It is our hope that you will spend time in each gallery and enjoy the culmination of their academic preparation.
Artists
Alyssa Abler
Biography
I'm Alyssa Abler, a senior from Concordia University Wisconsin majoring in graphic design, with a marketing minor. As a junior, I was a co-op student at MIAD (The Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design) and took some classes in design. Last fall, I was an intern with The Commons in Milwaukee, working along with other students from area universities. We worked with companies like Kohl’s, The Zoological Society and Direct Supply to solve problems.
Artist Statement
I love learning about how to create in different ways. I thrive in dabbling in different areas of design, for it keeps my mind always turning on the problem I am trying to solve. It is picking through all the ideas in my head, testing them out and finding my answer, which makes everything rewarding. I find myself in a constant cycle of diving in headfirst with my ideas and reeling myself in while honing in and simplifying my design. When I apply these ideas to a design, I keep in mind the tone I am trying to set with the choices of color, typography and placements to complement the requirements given. It always surprises me when I am refining a design; it holds the seeds of many of my thoughts that grow into something cohesive and surprising. It is these surprises that give me a keen sense of joy, that I hope in turn gives others the same feeling. My designs are meant to function and fit the needs of a problem I am solving, while also being an enjoyable experience. They capture my audience’s attention in the way creating always seems to grab mine.
Autumn Harrington
Biography
Meet Autumn Harrington! Autumn is a graphic designer who will be graduating from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2020 with a degree in graphic design and a minor in marketing. She is 22 years old and from South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Autumn recently got hired full time at Capture Sports Marketing in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. She first become interested in art in 2007 and ever since then she grew up creating new projects to show everyone. It wasn’t until her senior year of high school when Autumn decided she wanted to pursue a career in art. Autumn’s biggest achievements have been creating a Milwaukee Bucks hat with BMO Harris Bank, creating designs for Concordia’s athletic programs, and beginning to work with professional athletes through her new job.
Artist Statement
When looking at art, you should be passionate about your work. Passion and reason produce a healthy tension - to approach a subject with passion and to produce design that is thoughtful and effective. Resolving that tension between passion and reason unites who I am with the work that I do. Looking at an art piece, my goal is to have a person connect with it. A successful result of the design process should be a sense of joy and fulfillment for both designer and client.
Taylor Oestreich
Biography
My name is Taylor Oestreich and I am a senior at Concordia University Wisconsin. I have a major in Illustration, with a minor in Animation. I will graduate with a bachelor's degree on May 16. I was born and raised in Wisconsin, and currently reside in Slinger with my family, who have heartily supported me in my endeavor of pursuing art. I have a passion for creating and bringing ideas to life, and I cannot wait to explore my undiscovered journey that lies ahead.
Artist Statement
Jennifer Lee once said, "be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire."
Art has always been a deep passion. Drawing and illustrating thoughts and characters from my own imagination filled all pastimes in my childhood. When the time came for me to decide what occupation I wanted to pursue, there was no other profession that "set my soul on fire" like being an illustrator.
There is something about bringing thought and imagination to life that captivates me. I strive to be fearless in everything I create. I adore exploring different styles and specifically choose to convey certain feelings or show individuality through them. I hope that my illustrations capture attention, are dynamic, and ignite a spark of inspiration and creativity in anyone who observes them. Above all, I hope my art shows the fire it invariably sets in my soul.
Kristen Pearson
Biography
My name is Kristen Pearson and I am a graduate of the Graphic Design program at Concordia University Wisconsin (2020). I also have my Associate’s degree in Graphic Design from Waukesha County Technical College (2018). In 2019, I had a dream internship that allowed me to meet some sport icons from Wisconsin. I love to spend my time outside exploring and capturing its beauty; that is where most of my photographs come from. I hope you enjoy looking at my work and feel a sense of adventure.
Artist Statement
“Never get so busy making a living, that you forget to make a life.” -Unknown
Are life and work to be seen as somehow separate or should we blend the two so that work is only one expression of a life lived well? The best parts of life – travel, discoveries of hidden beauty, and shared experiences should all find a place within our work. It is my hope that my work reveals a full life.”
Angela Penterman
Biography
My name is Angela Penterman, and I am currently 22 years old. I’m completing my final semester at Concordia University Wisconsin where I am pursuing a career in Graphic Design, with a minor in Theatre. I have also taken several classes at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design to deepen my understanding of design. To gain experience in the field, I have been working and interning at several places, including Hayes Performance Systems and CUW’s Center for Academic Advising & Career Engagement. I enjoy volunteering my talents for the multiple clubs and organizations that I am involved in by providing for their design needs. After graduating, I will continue working for Hayes Performance Systems as a full time graphic designer.
Artist Statement
My favorite college professor taught me an important lesson that I will carry with me the rest of my life and exemplify through the art that I create. After sharing that she was having health complications, she told us that her health trials have made her realize that every day we get to work, go to school or create art is a blessing and a privilege, and we should live each day with that mindset. I took this to heart and applied it to the many areas of my life, especially with the art that I create. As a graphic designer, every single time I get to create something beautiful, I do so as if it were my last day on earth and to bring glory to God's name. The talents that He has given me on this earth to design and bring joy to others is what keeps me coming back to the studio day after day. I believe that is what makes my work stand out from others, as my hands here on earth create art that mimics my heavenly mindset of what is to come.
Elena Runge
Biography
Elena Runge is a dedicated and innovative interior designer focused on creating spaces that enrich the lives of those who inhabit them. She is an upcoming graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin's Interior Architecture and Design program in accordance with the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. Elena is career driven, and has worked first-hand on several design projects that have prepared her to advance in her field.
As an interior designer, Elena’s main focus is building relationships with her clients that culminate in beautiful and functional designs that meet their unique needs. Elena has worked on projects of all sizes in both the commercial and residential realm. Her portfolio is available upon request.
Artist Statement
February 2019, Darren and Jennifer Ray experienced the unimaginable; their home was destroyed in a slow burn fire. Jennifer quickly reached out to interior design programs within the state to seek help. I jumped on the opportunity. Although scared, it's been one of the best experiences an up-and-coming designer can get.
Through the last year together, I've been able to establish a strong and honest relationship with Jennifer and Darren. While reflecting on Jennifer and Darren's home visions I've been able to gain experience in space planning and design concepts and give them back their Paradise on Paradise Lane.
Taylor Rystrom
Biography
My name is Taylor Rystrom, and I am a student at Concordia University Wisconsin. I am studying illustration, graphic design, and animation to get my Bachelor's degree in art. I grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with a loving family who have always supported my decision to pursue art. I believe this decision has given me the confidence to pursue anything I set my mind to, and to spend the rest of life doing what I love.
Artist Statement
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you," Maya Angelou.
We all have stories that need to be told. I love how one piece of artwork can tell years of a story. Through multiple media I can tell and envision new ones. Film, literature, and television have shaped how I see storytelling and they inspire me to tell the stories of others. I've always been passionate about art and knew from a young age that I wanted to spend the rest of my life creating. I've been told to follow my dreams - no matter where they take me. I love learning and I want a career where I can make all of our stories visible.
Nicholas Schmeling
Biography
My name is Nick Schmeling and I am majoring in Graphic Design with a minor in marketing. My goal after graduation is to find a great job where I can learn and grow not only as a designer but as a person. My first real world design project I had done was being the editor and designer of the Concordia Theological Journal. It was a daunting task at first, but over time it helped me become a better designer by giving me an eye for detail and teaching me patience. Eventually I landed an internship with Capri Senior Communities where I was a marketing intern for three months. I worked with a small team and had a lot of freedom for the work I did. There was a lot of communication with the different communities and it helped me develop my communication skills and be a dependable team player. I love to do logo and branding design, signs, packaging, posters, and ads. There is so much that can be done in design and it’s always changing. I hope to explore it all.
Growing up as a kid I always loved drawing, painting, or creating something out of random materials. Art has always been with me throughout my life and that’s what helped me transition into Graphic Design. There is a lot of creative freedom that comes with design and it lets you explore endless possibilities of different designs. With that comes a lot of challenges, and that’s what really excites me as a designer because I get the challenge of finding those great ideas. Design isn’t my whole life though; every now and then I try to find a good book to read, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, and playing a few games on X-Box.
Artist Statement
I was always the quiet kid growing up and I found different ways of expressing myself through art. I enjoyed drawing my favorite characters, creating my own unique stories, or even taking some Legos and creating something new. All of this led me to graphic design, as it lets me be a visual storyteller and communicate a message in my own unique way. I love to do logo and branding design, signs, packaging, posters, and ads. There is so much that can be done in design and it’s always changing. I hope to explore it all.
I strive to create the best work and with that comes the challenge of knowing where to start and not just that, but how it’s going to end. While the possibilities are endless, I love the challenge of finding that one great idea and, though it’s not always easy, I look forward to the journey.
Amber Scholz
Biography
My name Amber Scholz. I was born in Cedarburg, WI and have attended Christian schools my whole life. I went to First Immanuel Lutheran in Cedarburg for grade school and then attended Living Word Lutheran High School in Jackson, WI. While at Concordia University Wisconsin, I focused on Graphic Design and chose to minor in Computer Science. My Graphic Design major had me take five classes at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. After I finish my college degree I will be working in New Berlin for LPi, designing new brands and bulletins for churches and nursing homes.
Artist Statement
I see every working experience as a way to develop my graphic design skills and learn more and more about my trade. Creativity follows me everywhere I go and pops up in a lot of what I do. The trips that I take inspire me. The different cultures I have seen while traveling help develop my creative nature. I love seeing the differences between cultures. These appear in their clothes, food, and pastimes. There is so much more to be learned from everyone and everything around us. Keep your mind sharp and your eyes open.
Kendall Stribling
Biography
“Make someone smile every day. Never forget that you are someone too,” is the motto of Kendall Stribling, a senior studying graphic design and business at Concordia University Wisconsin. They recently finished their senior season of volleyball and continue to be involved with the program in a managerial position. Currently, they are working as a graphic designer for the CUW Athletic Department as well as interning for Catholic Charities. Combining their passion for mental health advocacy and communication design is their biggest goal, both professionally and personally. Their other interests include music, reading, spending time at coffee shops, video games, and anything Harry Potter related. One of their fondest memories was meeting the author of the poem that inspired the creation of their type animation project.
Artist Statement
Untold stories and unspoken truths – that’s where my work begins. I tell my story and the stories of those who have felt unheard, alone, or forsaken. Through design, I hope to bring light and hope to a world that is often dark and troubled. Design should mirror the uniqueness, beauty and ugliness that is the nature of the human condition.
Sophie Zang
Biography
As an extremely self-motivated and goal-oriented person, Sophie Zang is graduating with a degree in Interior Architecture and Design, with a minor in Marketing. She is eager to secure a role that will challenge and develop her creative aptitude, engage her in a team-oriented environment, and expose her to the interior design industry.
With experience at highly regarded Interior Design Firms including Nate Berkus Associates and a successful business of her own, Sophie knows firsthand the importance of mixing creative ability with a strong work ethic.
Artist Statement
My goal is to create calm and restorative spaces that allow my clients to live both productively and luxuriously - all in a wonderful harmony. I bring to life a curated blend of classic styles and emerging trends to produce concepts that are opulent, orderly and enduring, while adaptable to change.
I am a passionate creator and planner, whose work extends beyond the design of living spaces to a much broader platform of photography, social media and content development. Ultimately, my goal is to create a legacy of inspiration through design and communication.
Mason Zehren
Biography
Mason Zehren was born in West Allis, Wisconsin, but currently lives in downtown Milwaukee. He will be graduating with a Graphic Design major and a Marketing minor. His work mainly includes logo design, typography, photography and illustration. Being in the city has allowed Mason to capture photos of the great cityscapes around him. This is all because of his love for photography, which stemmed from a class he took in high school. From first getting a nicer camera for Christmas one year, Mason has been constantly finding new ways to take photos and events that could better improve his skills. Ever since he was little, he was constantly told to stop doodling over his notes in school, but now he has turned that passion for art and design into something that can be turned into a worthwhile career. Growing up, his overactive imagination would allow him to create pieces of art that were more mystical and abstract than your typical sunny day landscape. Mason likes to constantly think about the “what-ifs” by designing characters that push the boundaries of “normal” and creating works that aren’t considered typical. His love for movies plays a large role in the kind of designs he creates, whether it be horror or sci-fi. At the age of 19, Mason decided he would jump out of a plane with his dad, which is one of the best decisions he ever did. He’s always ready to take risks, but Mason also likes to think through his decisions before he makes them, especially with his own work. He believes that people should be able to draw and design whatever they want, as long as it isn’t hurting everyone. While he is going to school for Graphic Design, Mason also has a great passion for illustration and digital drawing. He hopes to eventually have his own online store where he can sell items like t-shirts and enamel pins.
Artist Statement
I believe art is made in order to portray our thoughts and messages we wish other people can see in a way that words might not be enough to express. Art does not always have to have this incredibly deep meaning behind it, but more so a way for anyone to create something simply because they like it. It is impossible to please everyone, so I want to make sure that I am satisfied with myself as an artist above anything else and continue creating works that I am proud of.
Doing Our Part
Students worked to create their versions of how they were coping with the Coronavirus Pandemic. In this exhibit freshman Concordia Art Majors created an exhibit of how they felt about their future as well as their present state of isolation. We are very proud of the work the students have made for this exhibit.
Together Apart
Photographs in isolation.
Photographers: Lily Kate Burreson, McKenzie Carter, Austin L. Hribar, Mason Runkel
The Wednesday Review
Many of you have used this time at home to learn new skills or practice old ones. Some of you may have worked on drawing, painting, sculpture or other visual arts endeavors. It’s often difficult to work in isolation, so the Art Faculty at Concordia University Wisconsin would like to offer an opportunity for you to show us your work and receive some commentary and feedback. Every Wednesday this summer, from 12:00 noon until 1:00, we will be available via Zoom on the following link: (https://cuwaa.zoom.us/j/2622432611).
At least one faculty member, and sometimes more, will be available. Please take advantage of this opportunity to improve your work. For questions or additional information, please contact Dr. Gaylund Stone (gaylund.stone@cuw.edu). Have a productive and creative summer!
About the CUW Art Gallery
Over 30 years ago, the CUW Art Gallery was founded with the hope of educating, challenging, and inspiring the students, faculty, staff, and community of CUW as well as the public through exposure to the vast world of art. Our mission is to encourage appreciation and understanding of art and its role in society through direct engagement with original works of art. Combining fresh, object-based scholarship with broad accessibility, the CUW Art Gallery aims to provoke and affirm accepted meanings of art objects and to suggest new ones to its patrons. We aspire to excite the imagination, and present opportunities for our patrons to look into the study of art and culture.
The goals of the CUW Art Gallery are to:
- Bring excellent contemporary and historical art to the CUW campus community
- Reflect the diversity of the university and Southeastern Wisconsin community
- Connect the university and the public through relevant art and cultural programs
- Support student, emerging and established artists by providing opportunities for the creation and exhibition of cutting edge visual art
- Development of self-knowledge inherent in artistic activity for the personal growth and development of the CUW Gallery students, faculty, staff and patrons