Home > Events   +   Industry News

Michigan’s KCAD Welcomes Art and Design Lovers to May 2 Show and Public Reception as Graduating Students Share Best Work — Kendall College of Art and Design —

Michigan’s KCAD Welcomes Art and Design Lovers to May 2 Show and Public Reception as Graduating Students Share Best Work — Kendall College of Art and Design —

Presenting one of the year’s most anticipated and largest temporary art and design shows in Michigan, Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) has announced its 2023 Annual Student Exhibition. Highlights of the program include a public Opening Reception and an Undergraduate Senior Exhibition that features a cross-section of the best work in art and design from KCAD’s graduating seniors.

The events and creative works in various media and formats all come together at KCAD’s bustling and scenic campus in downtown Grand Rapids. Open to the public as well as alumni, friends and family, the acclaimed college’s faculty and students will kick off the shows together with an opening reception celebrating KCAD’s Class of 2023 graduates and their creative accomplishments.

The opening reception, featuring live music and Mosby’s popcorn, takes place from 4:00 – 7:00 pm on Tuesday, May 2, preceded by the media preview from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. Details at this link.

About the Annual Student Exhibition

Everyone can join KCAD’s campus community to see highlights including the opening reception and eye-catching, wide-ranging works for the Annual Student Exhibition that transforms the glass-wrapped 17 Fountain building into a massive gallery on display to the public for one week. The program concludes with the college’s commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 6.

“Celebrating the creativity and determination of our 2023 graduating seniors, this exhibition represents a culmination of student experience and highlights the breadth of learning that happens in our studios, labs, and classrooms,” says KCAD President Tara McCrackin. “Their passion, curiosity, and dedication to excellence reminds us that students are the driving force behind everything we do here at KCAD, and I am continually inspired by their boundless potential to create meaningful change in the world.”

An online exhibition, also opening May 2 at 4:00 pm, will complement the on-campus exhibition.

“Our students are pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in every program at KCAD. From the intricate details of medical illustration to sleek product designs, the in-person and online exhibitions are a testament to their exceptional technical skills and artistic growth,” explains Michele Bosak, Exhibitions Director for KCAD.

Not only does the exhibition showcase completed works, it also offers a valuable glimpse into the student process, technique and inspiration behind each body of work, adds Bosak. For prospective high school students, the show gives a look inside KCAD’s wide range of programs, close-knit community, and creative career possibilities.

As KCAD’s experience and data show, career opportunities and high rates of acceptance after graduation into various career and entrepreneurial settings have continued in recent years. With that in mind, the annual exhibition also provides the opportunity for employers to connect with the next generation of creative leaders and scout new talent.

As art and design lovers peruse the exhibition each year, many have also purchased student works to add to their collections. Some represent the students’ first sale, while others have found opportunities to complete commissions or show in galleries. Purchased works will be available for pickup beginning Sunday, May 7.

About the Program

  • Media Preview: Tuesday, May 2, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
  • Opening Reception: Tuesday May 2, 4:00 – 7:00 pm (See Event Page for more)
  • Annual Student Exhibition: May 1 – 6 Hours: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm (See Event Page for more)
  • Online Exhibition goes live on Tuesday, May 2 at 4:00 pm at kcad.ferris.edu/ase
  • Exhibition final day: Saturday May 6