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Each year, students in Milligan University’s graphic design and interactive media design programs prepare a showcase during their senior year to highlight their creative works. The showcase allows the community and the artists to celebrate their hard work, and in the words of this year’s senior class, to “pause” and reflect on their achievements.

This year’s senior graphic design and interactive media design majors will present their showcase, “Pause,” from Nov. 17 – Dec. 3 in the Milligan Art Gallery located in Derthick Hall. An opening reception will be held Sunday, Nov. 17, from 2-4 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The showcase features works by interactive media design seniors Abbey Cartagena, of Johnson City, and Ashley Roberts, of Kingsport, alongside graphic design majors Nicholas Hensley, of Erwin, and Kamdyn Lee, of Kingsport.

The title for the showcase, “Pause,” was selected based on Hensley’s realization that the exhibit “is a chance to take a moment and enjoy the work created during our time at Milligan. When deadlines and exams are flying at you, it can be hard to really appreciate what you created. This is the chance to reflect and enjoy the hard work put in over the last four years.” 

For Roberts, Milligan’s SGA President and member of the Ministry Leadership Program and Campus Activities Board, her interactive media design major has taught her important communication, analytical and creative skills.

“My favorite projects have been those that invite me to solve a challenge in a new way, using the skills I’ve learned to reach a solution that feels uniquely fitting,” said Roberts. “I find satisfaction in designs that combine creativity and intention to represent a story with care.”

Under the guidance of Milligan’s faculty, these seniors emphasize that their confidence in their works has grown, and they appreciate being able to connect their academic pursuits, and future professional pursuits, to their Christian faith.

For Cartagena, Milligan has helped her artwork bloom and flourish. She is thankful that Milligan’s program has strengthened and developed the artistic gifts God blessed her to use.

Milligan’s graphic design program teaches the elements of design and how to apply them across various media, as well as the fundamental skills, theories, principles and technologies necessary for design work.

The university’s interactive media design major develops students’ knowledge of design theory and skills in motion graphics, interface design and visual communication using industry-standard tools and techniques. Central to both majors at Milligan is the integration of the Christian liberal arts.