Fall 2023 Fine Arts News

DESIGN SPOTLIGHT

“The word that stands out to me is ‘belonging.’ I think many of the high school students never felt like they belonged but realized they have a place in the design community.” – David Elizalde , Chair, Department of Design

PHOTO: ELLIS KIRKDOFFER

the importance of creating ethical leaders on campus and in spaces outside the education system. “It’s quite satisfying to know that the topics we discussed will assist future students, whether they stay in the design field or move elsewhere,” said Monece. “This will also help them navigate their daily lives and careers with greater ease.” After the panel discussion, students eagerly approached the stage to meet the designers and discuss career possibilities. “I think something clicked in the high school students’ minds from seeing and hearing stories of people that looked like them,” Rice said. “I had conversations with several of the students who were very curious about the architecture and design profession, but were unsure if that was the field for them,” said Exantus. “I let them know if it was possible for me, it’s also possible for them. That’s one of the reasons why representation matters.” The students then visited the TCU Fine Arts Building to participate in innovative workshops, including a scavenger hunt and a 3D building block activity, for a comprehensive introduction to the fine arts. Department of Design faculty and students led the workshops to serve as a resource and share their experiences in the program. “I was glad to help in any way and really enjoyed interacting with all the high school students,” Maston said. “The event was a great success, and we likely gained a few new Horned Frogs.”

Cheryl Durst meets students who are members of TCU’s International Interior Design Association.

Students also listened to presentations on fashion merchandising, interior design and graphic design led by instructors and department chairs. “The word that stands out to me is ‘belonging,’” said David Elizalde, the department of design chair. “I think many of the high school students never felt like they belonged but realized they have a place in the design community.” A few weeks after the symposium, Rice received a phone call from panelist Danika Leeks, who described her experience participating in the event. “She was moved to tears and said, ‘As a Black woman and designer, I felt so safe and saw

that I could really share my story in that space,’” recalled Rice. “Having that reaction meant everything to me and was overwhelming in a beautiful way.” Rice hopes the symposium inspired students and audience members to continue the conversation and push diversity and inclusion throughout our design industries and communities. “A Seat at the Table might look different next year, but the goal will be the same,” Rice said. “To uplift the voices of Black designers in our community and facilitate this conversation beyond Black History Month.” v

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