President’s REPORT
04 — Innovation & Entrepreneurship
04 — Night Market: MassArt’s Interactive Laboratory for Creative Commerce
05 — A Bright Collaboration: MassArt, MIT, and the BSO
05 — Innovative Toy Design Supports Elephant Enrichment
06 — From Classroom to Community: A Vision for Global Health Equity
07 — Textiles as Testimony: Rania Abdalla Kadafour in Barcelona
08 — Community Engagement & Social Impact
08 — Embracing Art as a Catalyst for Social Justice
08 — MassArtVOTES: Mobilizing Creativity
09 — Community Connections: Kiana Cintron Designs for a Milestone
09 — The Studio & The Stacks: A Creative Collaboration with Public Libraries
10 — Planting Resilience: The Roxbury Sunflower Project in 2024 10 — Souper Bowl
11 — Expanding Access, Building Connections, and Creating Change
12 — Action, Environment, and Sustainability
12 — Through Art, We Engage: Creating Dialogue on Climate and Justice 13 — Art, Fashion, and Responsible Design in Ghana
— Creativity Leading the Charge for Climate Action
14 — Education &
14 — Designing Futures: Flexible Pathways to Creative Careers
— Couture: MassArt Students Design for The Cher Show Opening Night
— Nurturing Talent and Access: The Power of Giving in Arts and Education
— Elevating Conversations on Art, Society, and Education
— Advocating for the Future of Art and Design Education
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Welcome
At Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), we continue to embrace the profound responsibility of stewarding creativity—not just as a theme, but as a guiding force in everything we do. As I reflect on this past year, I am filled with deep pride and gratitude for the extraordinary community of artists, designers, educators, and innovators who make MassArt such a vital and vibrant institution.
At a time when our world is in constant motion—navigating environmental, social, political, and technological shifts—the role of art and design has never been more essential. Creativity is not only a form of expression; it is a driver of innovation, a catalyst for change, and a critical force in shaping the future of our economy. Art and design are where imagination meets execution—and where problems are not only seen, but solved.
Just as we have done for over 150 years, MassArt continues to push boundaries and chart new paths. We are entrepreneurial in spirit and intentional in our work. From groundbreaking installations with partners like the Boston Symphony Orchestra and MIT, to the power of public memory expressed in our collaborations with Embrace Boston, our students, staff, and faculty are showing what’s possible when art and design take the lead.
Whether through the Architecture Department’s Community Build program, the launch of innovative certificate offerings like interior design, or the sustainability and equity initiatives shaping our fashion and fine arts programs, MassArt is a community that moves ideas forward—with purpose and passion.
This report is a snapshot of that momentum—a glimpse into the beauty, drive, and ingenuity that define our campus. It’s also a reminder that MassArt is not only affordable and accessible—it’s essential. We are preparing the next generation of creative leaders who will transform industries, revitalize communities, and imagine a better world.
Thank you to the students, faculty, alumni, staff, donors, and partners who bring this mission to life every day. Your creativity and commitment ensure that MassArt continues to lead—not just in art, design, and education, but in the future of innovation itself.
I am proud and honored to serve as President of this extraordinary institution.
Respectfully,
Mary K. Grant, PhD President Massachusetts College of Art and Design
President Mary K. Grant. Photo by Kelly Davidson.
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
At MassArt, creativity isn’t just about making art—it’s about using design and entrepreneurial thinking to solve complex problems, push boundaries, and spark change. The College fosters an environment where bold ideas take shape and transform into impactful ventures. By blending artistic vision with practical skills, MassArt empowers students and alumni to innovate, collaborate, and tackle challenges across industries, from sustainable businesses to community-driven solutions.
Night Market: MassArt’s Interactive Laboratory for Creative Commerce
At the second annual MassArt Night Market, art and entrepreneurship merged in a dynamic showcase of studentand alumni-run businesses. As part of the Creative Economy Business Incubator, Night Market serves as a real-world testing ground for emerging artists and designers to experiment with and grow their creative ventures.
Jasmine Gonzalez, BFA ‘25 (Illustration) used the event as a platform to test her business concept, Cosina del Amor (“Kitchen of Love”). The interactive installation was designed to help adults reconnect with their inner child. Gonzalez transformed The Station (The Fenway’s new outdoor space) into a playful, sensory-driven environment where visitors engaged with hand-painted fruits made in MassArt’s 3D FabLab, marble-filled play sinks, and other interactive elements—many of which were available for purchase. Inspired by her belief that creativity and playfulness should never fade with age, Gonzalez explained: “I really liked the idea of playing adults. When you’re told to act your age, it seems like you have to cut out the things you enjoy to be ‘mature.’ The [kitchen] aims to bring back some of that childhood joy.”
Vendors and visitors at the MassArt Night Market. Photos by Bountheng Tanakhone ‘18.
Cosina del Amor (“Kitchen of Love”) at Night Market.
Photo by Mike Dunne ‘17.
A Bright Collaboration:
MassArt, MIT, and the BSO
MassArt students are redefining what’s possible at the intersection of art, technology, and community—most recently through a groundbreaking collaboration with MIT and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Sam Webb, BFA ‘25 (Studio for Interrelated Media) co-created Ghosts of the Future, a first-of-its-kind immersive public art installation inside Boston’s iconic Symphony Hall.
Developed in partnership with researchers from the MIT Media Lab and supported by the BSO, the project is a powerful example of how MassArt students, like Webb, are shaping the future of public art through interdisciplinary partnerships. The installation transformed the historic venue into a multisensory experience, blending light, sound, and movement to invite audiences to experience the space in a completely new way.
“This collaboration allowed us to merge disciplines and create something truly unique,” Webb said. “It’s inspiring to see how creativity can connect people in unexpected ways.”
Innovative Design Supports Elephant Enrichment
A four-ton challenge calls for big ideas—and even bigger heart. As part of a long-running collaboration between MassArt and the nonprofit Handshouse Studio, MassArt students helped design and build enrichment toys for Ruth and Emily, two endangered Asian elephants at the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Chai Turner, BFA ‘27 (Illustration) and their classmates took part in a hands-on workshop focused on animal well-being. Their creation, dubbed the “elephant screw,” was a massive rolling log packed with custom-formulated alfalfa cubes. Regular alfalfa isn’t ideal for elephants, so the team developed nutrientrich cubes to supplement the elephants’ diet while also encouraging their natural curiosity and problem-solving instincts.
“Today is one of the most incredible days of my life,” said Turner. “Watching the elephants interact with something we created was a huge relief—and a huge joy.”
When the toy was introduced, Ruth and Emily approached immediately, explored the design, and quickly learned how to engage with it. This project is part of a 14-year tradition of collaboration, creativity, and care, reminding us that great design can have a big impact— no matter how big or small the challenge.
Ghosts of the Future installation.
Photos by Sam Webb, BFA ‘25 (Studio for Interrelated Media) and Haozhen Feng.
MassArt students with their elephant enrichment project, “elephant screw,” ready for delivery. Photo courtesy of Handhouse Studio.
Elephants at Buttonwood Park Zoo. Photo by Amy Fink ‘18.
MassArt Spotlight
Morgan Peterson BFA ‘06 (Glass and SIM) was crowned the winner of Season 4 of Netflix’s Blown Away
The competition featured 10 talented artists vying for a $100,000 prize, a residency at the Corning Museum of Glass, and a prestigious opportunity to work with renowned glass artist Adriano Berengo in Venice, Italy.
Morgan’s victory showcases her exceptional skill and creativity in the world of glassblowing.
From Classroom to Community: A Vision for Global Health Equity
At MassArt, innovation is grounded in impact—and that’s exactly what Michela Galazzi, BFA ‘25 (Industrial Design) and Maddie Johnson-Hartwitz, BFA ’25 (Industrial Design) are delivering through their senior thesis project, an emergency transportation stretcher. In partnership with MIT’s D-Lab and Shonaquip Social Enterprise in Langa, South Africa, the students are applying design thinking to one of the most pressing healthcare challenges in underserved communities: access to safe and dignified emergency transportation.
In South African townships, where roads are often unpaved and ambulance access is limited, patients in need of urgent care are frequently transported by wheelbarrow or carried—methods that are unsafe, unsustainable, and deeply undignified, particularly for children, elders, and pregnant individuals. Recognizing both the design gap and the human cost, Galazzi and Johnson-Harwitz set out to create a practical solution tailored to the realities of these communities.
The result is a collapsible, tri-fold medical transport device with a three-wheel design, developed to navigate uneven terrain and be stored compactly inside a home. Built with waterproof, easy-toclean materials and engineered for stability, the stretcher reflects deep research, empathy, and a commitment to health equity. Early testing has shown promising results in maneuverability and safety, and refinements are already underway.
What began as a classroom challenge is now a cross-continental collaboration. Galazzi and Johnson-Harwitz are working with MIT mechanical engineers to develop a manufacturable prototype, with plans for field testing and local production in South Africa. Collaborations with community-based organizations are also being explored to ensure that the final design is accessible, affordable, and built for long-term use.
The project is a clear reflection of what happens when purposedriven design, global partnerships, and student ingenuity come together. It is this spirit of innovation—rooted in MassArt’s values—that continues to shape a new generation of creative leaders prepared to meet the needs of a changing world.
Photos courtesy of Michela Galazzi ‘25 and Maddie Johnson-Harwitz ‘25.
Textiles as Testimony: Rania Abdalla Kadafour in Barcelona
Art gives texture to history. For Sudanese fiber artist Rania Abdalla Kadafour, BFA ‘24 (Fibers), every stitch tells a story. Through her work in stuffed quilting, she transforms textiles into narrative landscapes that explore themes of migration, war, grief, and language, offering a deeper understanding of history.
As the recipient of MassArt’s Donis A. Dondis Travel Fellowship, Abdalla Kadafour traveled to R.A.R.O. Barcelona, an international residency that promotes artistic experimentation. The fellowship enabled her to expand the global conversation on Sudanese identity, memory, and belonging. Her project focuses on her memories of visiting Sudan as part of a dispersed immigrant community, and how the current conflict is gradually altering those memories, all while highlighting underrepresented Afro-Arab voices.
Through writing, trapunto quilting, and imagemaking, she creates a visual narrative that acts as both an archive of history and a reflection of the present. At R.A.R.O. Barcelona, Abdalla Kadafour continues to develop her innovative approach to memory-keeping through fiber art and experiment with new materials, fostering international dialogue on the role of textiles in storytelling.
Work by Rania Abdalla Kadafour, BFA ‘24 (Fibers), top left to bottom right: In-Flight Mania, 2024. Cyanotype print on quilted linen. 32” x 41”; All The Mothers I’ll Never Know, 2024. Yarn, thread, ink, coin jewelry, braiding hair and cotton fabric dyed with cochineal and madder root. 50” x 50”; My Olive Eyes, 2024. Fabric, watercolor, batting, yarn, thread, braiding hair, copper seashell brooch, 12” x 15”.
Community Engagement & Social Impact
At MassArt, creativity is a catalyst for change, and art is a powerful tool for building stronger, more connected communities. The College is committed to utilizing its resources and talents to address social issues, inspire activism, and amplify voices that are often overlooked. By connecting with local communities, faculty, staff, students, and alumni engage in projects that not only transform spaces but also empower individuals and foster lasting impact. Through collaboration, creativity, and a dedication to justice, MassArt’s communityfocused work continues to make a meaningful difference in the world around us.
Embracing Art as a Catalyst for Social Justice
MassArt partnered with Embrace Boston for the annual Embrace Ideas Festival, a multi-day event focused on civic dialogue, cultural leadership, and collective repair. The 2024 festival theme—“Inspiring the Resistance: Building a Culture of Repair”—brought civic leaders, artists, and advocates together to envision a more equitable Boston by 2030. As part of this continued civic engagement, MassArt joined the Everyone 250 initiative, a citywide effort to center racial equity in the lead-up to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Emily Foster Day, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, was appointed co-chair, reinforcing the College’s role in shaping Boston’s future through the arts.
MassArtVOTES: Mobilizing Creativity
At MassArt, civic engagement and creativity go hand in hand. MassArtVOTES is a nonpartisan initiative that encourages students to engage with democracy through art and design. The program fosters civic responsibility and empowers students to use their creativity to engage in the political process, from voter registration to advocacy and campus-wide art activations.
This year’s Constitution Day celebration brought the MassArt community together to express the importance of voting through art, design, and storytelling. Students, faculty, and staff participated in activities like printmaking, button-making, and stencil design, transforming creativity into a statement of democratic participation. The Illustration Department, sparc! the Art Mobile, the Library, the FABLAB, and other departments contributed to a vibrant campuswide maker day.
As MassArtVOTES looks to the future, the program continues to lead with creativity, advocacy, and action, ensuring that civic engagement remains an integral part of the student experience.
Celebrating at Boston’s 2024 Embrace Ideas Festival. Photos courtesy of Embrace Boston.
Constitution Day 2024. Photo by by Melissa Ostrow.
Community Connections: Kiana Cintron Designs for a Milestone
In the summer of 2024, the Mission Hill Neighborhood Housing Services (MHNHS) hosted a vibrant neighborhood party to celebrate their 50th anniversary, drawing in over 200 local residents. As a community-based nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing and stabilizing the Mission Hill area of Boston, MHNHS has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood for half a century. To commemorate this milestone, they reached out to the MassArt Center for Art and Community Partnerships (CACP) to bring an artistic touch to the celebration.
Kiana Cintron, BFA ‘27 (Illustration), a member of the CACP cohort, was selected to design a commemorative t-shirt for the event. Throughout the spring, Cintron collaborated closely with the MHNHS staff, immersing herself in the rich history and resilience of the Mission Hill community. Her design would serve as a visual tribute to the neighborhood’s strength and spirit.
“This project allowed me to put my art practice to the test,” Cintron shared. “Not only did I get to learn about how art impacts a community, but I also gained insight into the collaboration between an artist and their client. CACP helped me connect with the community, and I was able to share my artistic experiences to assist them in celebrating such a significant moment.”
The results of this collaboration went beyond just the t-shirts. The design was so well-received that it was used on hats and the Annual Meeting program books as well, becoming a lasting symbol of the anniversary. The partnership exemplified the power of creative engagement, giving Cintron invaluable real-world experience while contributing to a meaningful local initiative.
“Our experience with Kiana was fantastic,” MHNHS reflected. “She listened to our ideas, tested different concepts, and ultimately gave us something much better than we could have hoped for. We’re grateful for MassArt’s willingness to partner with us and support this event, as it truly helped build community in Mission Hill.”
Kiana Cintron, BFA ‘27 (Illustration) joins MHNHS to celebrate the organization’s 50th anniversary, for which she was commissioned to design a commemorative t-shirt. Photo courtesy of CACP and MHNHS.
The Studio & The Stacks: A Creative Collaboration with Public Libraries
In 2024, MassArt expanded its efforts to make art education accessible by bringing workshops and public art initiatives to libraries across Massachusetts. Partnering with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, MassArt launched the Summer Art Workshop Series, a free program designed to engage youth with art and design, serving local communities beyond Boston.
In libraries in Medford, Salisbury, and Woburn, MassArt faculty and student ambassadors led workshops on sustainable fashion, comic arts, and aluminum casting. Young artists in Woburn carved designs into scratch blocks before watching molten metal form into their ideas. In Medford, students explored sustainable fashion, while in Salisbury, kids learned to tell stories through comic strips. Over 94% of participants expressed interest in more MassArt-led library workshops, showing a strong need for creative education outside traditional classrooms.
Steve Locke, MFA ‘01 and former MassArt faculty member, received high praise for his solo exhibition the fire next time at MASS MoCA, with Boston Globe critic Murray White calling it “transfixing, a chilling compendium of racially motivated atrocity that remains a constant feature of American life.”
The exhibition, inspired by James Baldwin’s 1963 work, confronts the ongoing reality of racial violence through powerful figurative sculptures and drawings, offering a stark and haunting portrayal of racial terror in America.
MassArt Spotlight
Ekua Holmes
BFA ‘77 (Photography), renowned mixed media artist, children’s book illustrator, and MassArt’s Associate Director at the Center for Art and Community Partnerships (CACP) and Director of sparc! the Art Mobile, designed the artwork for a Kwanzaa stamp that was sold nationwide by the United States Postal Service.
Inspired by a live performance at the OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center in Roxbury, the stamp featured a male drummer and two female dancers, celebrating the cultural significance of Kwanzaa.
Holmes has earned numerous awards for her illustrations, including the Coretta Scott King Award and a Caldecott Honor, and is a leader in the Boston arts community through her role as MassArt’s Associate Director at CACP.
Planting Resilience: The Roxbury Sunflower Project in 2024
Founded by MassArt alumna Ekua Holmes, BFA ‘77 (Photography), the Roxbury Sunflower Project (RSP) continues to transform Roxbury’s urban landscape, using art and nature to celebrate resilience, self-determination, and community connection. Holmes, an acclaimed artist and MassArt’s Associate Director at the Center for Art and Community Partnerships, launched the project in 2018 to bring color, beauty, and symbolism to the neighborhood while fostering collective creativity.
“This project is a seed of love for Roxbury,” Holmes shares. “It’s a way to honor its geography, its historical struggles, its victories over displacement, and to show that the power of art can make change.”
In summer 2024, in partnership with MassArt’s sparc! the ArtMobile, the United Neighbors of Lower Roxbury, and Madison Park Development Corporation (MPDC), RSP hosted a season of hands-on artmaking, environmental stewardship, and youth engagement at the Grove Hall Roxbury Sunflower Garden. Community members of all ages participated in beaded bracelet-making, butterfly prints, clay roses, and more, while MPDC teens played a key role in caring for the sunflowers and learning about urban gardening.
A final gathering in August brought neighbors together for music, art, and celebration, reaffirming RSP’s mission to inspire action, install vibrant landscapes, embrace history, and empower youth. Now in its seventh year, the project continues to embody the power of art and design to unite communities and shape the world around us.
Souper Bowl
Every February, MassArt’s Clay for Change students, faculty, staff, and community partners come together for the Souper Bowl, a cherished tradition that blends creativity with purpose. In partnership with Haley House, this “Empty Bowls”style fundraiser supports critical food and housing justice initiatives, using art as a force for good.
Part of what makes the Souper Bowl so special isn’t just the 300 handmade ceramic bowls crafted and donated by MassArt students— it’s the spirit of generosity and community that fills each one. Guests at the event choose a unique, handcrafted bowl and enjoy soups donated by local restaurants and caterers, all while supporting Haley House’s mission to empower individuals, break down barriers, and strengthen neighborhoods through food and community programming.
This student-led initiative has been shaping lives since 2011, when Clay for Change partnered with Haley House to expand the event into the meaningful fundraiser it is today.
Above: Roxbury Sunflower Project partner event. Photo by Melissa Ostrow.
Expanding Access, Building Connections, and Creating Change
At MassArt, partnership transcends collaboration—it is a transformative force that expands access to creative experiences and forges authentic connections between the College and the broader community. Through events, initiatives, and collaborative projects, MassArt leverages art and design to engage diverse audiences, fostering both a sense of belonging and inclusive creative excellence. This year, MassArt continued to demonstrate how art can break barriers, inspire change, and address socioeconomic challenges. In partnership with local organizations, the College provides platforms for artistic expression that enrich lives and cultivate vibrant communities.
Our partnerships take many forms, all of which exemplify our mission to utilize art and design as a tool for building relationships that support the common good. For over two decades, the Opening Our Doors celebration in the Fenway Cultural District has united artists, institutions, and community members to share in the transformative power of the arts. MassArt was proud to participate alongside our partners and peers in the 23rd annual event, showcasing the intersections of creativity and community. At the MassArt Art Museum (MAAM), visitors explored Displacement, an immersive exhibition examining the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Using textiles, sculptures, film, and scent-based works, artists explored the environmental crisis and its profound human impact, encouraging dialogue about sustainability and social responsibility.
Engagement extended beyond the exhibition doors. In the Barkan Family Big Ideas Studio, MassArt created a welcoming, interactive space for families and visitors of all ages to experience the creative process firsthand. Through hands-on artmaking, participants connected with the artists’ vision and one another, reinforcing the idea that art—like stewardship of our environment—is a shared effort.
Outside MAAM, MassArt’s Foundry students, guided by Fine Arts 3D faculty, engaged the community with an awe-inspiring Aluminum Pour demonstration. Visitors carved designs into molds, and within minutes, molten aluminum was poured into their creations, turning them into custom-cast artwork to take home. This performance highlighted MassArt’s commitment to making art accessible, giving individuals the opportunity to actively participate in creating something unique. It was a reminder of the unifying power of creativity and the pride that these pieces would bring to homes and offices.
Students pour molten aluminum into pre-formed molds called “scratch blocks.” Photo by Melissa Ostrow.
An event attendee designs a scratch block. Photo by Melissa Ostrow.
Action, Environment, and Sustainability
At MassArt, creativity isn’t just about making—it’s about making a difference. The College is deeply committed to addressing the environmental challenges of our time, using art and design as powerful tools for sparking conversation, raising awareness, and driving action. Students actively engage with sustainability in their work, exploring creative solutions that not only reduce environmental impact but also inspire a more sustainable future. Through exhibitions, collaborative projects, and innovative design, MassArt is contributing to a global movement that’s reimagining how creativity can tackle some of the most urgent issues facing our planet.
FEATURED
Through Art, We Engage: Creating Dialogue on Climate and Justice
In 2024, MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) showcased the power of art and design in engaging audiences with one of the most urgent issues of our time: climate change. Through its exhibitions, MassArt demonstrated how art serves not just as a form of creative expression, but as a tool for engagement, raising awareness, inspiring action, and provoking vital dialogue on the environmental challenges facing our world.
MAAM’s 2024 exhibition, Displacement, featured contemporary artists whose works explored the profound human impact on the environment and the far-reaching consequences of climate change. By employing textiles, sculpture, film, and sound, these artists captured the tension between industrialization and nature, shining a light on how human actions have accelerated the environmental crisis while also exploring the resilience and adaptation of affected communities.
A centerpiece of the exhibition was Sandra M. Sawatzky’s Black Gold Tapestry, a 220-foot embroidered narrative that traces humanity’s relationship with oil over the last five millennia. Through this piece, Sawatzky illustrated the deep connections between oil production and industrialization, showing how the exploitation of natural resources has led to environmental degradation and forced migration.
Alongside Sawatzky’s historical exploration, Imani Jacqueline Brown’s video installation, What remains at the ends of the earth?, took a more localized approach, focusing on Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley” and its environmental impact on Black communities. Brown’s work highlighted the intersection of oil extraction and racial injustice, underscoring the uneven burdens of climate change borne by vulnerable populations.
As Shana Garr from Boston Art Review noted, the exhibition “stimulated recognition of our inherent
interconnectedness,” showing how art has the power to provoke critical reflection on the climate. Kelly Presutti of Art in America emphasized that Brown’s work, like many in Displacement, “promoted attention to the human realities and resiliencies” of those living through environmental change.
To further this conversation, President Grant moderated an expert panel discussion that tied in closely with the themes of the exhibition. The panel, featuring Melissa Hoffer, Massachusetts’s first Climate Chief, Michael J. Bobbitt, Executive Director of the Mass Cultural Council, and Spencer Glendon, Founder of Probable Futures, explored the crucial role that the creative economy—including artists, designers, makers, and educators—plays in shaping the future of environmental stewardship.
The discussion highlighted how art, design, and innovation can inspire us to think differently about sustainability and our collective responsibility to the planet. It was a thought-provoking and deeply engaging experience that underscored the transformative power of creativity.
MAAM patrons engaging with Displacement Photo by Amy Fink ‘18.
Art, Fashion, and Responsible Design in Ghana
For Heily Rivas, BFA ‘24 (Fashion Design), sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a mission. Inspired by her passion for environmental stewardship, Rivas has created a line of garments made entirely from upcycled materials.
“Fashion has a responsibility to be part of the solution. I want to show that sustainability and style can go hand in hand,” Rivas says, emphasizing her commitment to addressing the fashion industry’s environmental impact.
Her dedication to sustainability came to life during a transformative 32-day residency at the Kokrobitey Institute in Ghana. This opportunity allowed Rivas to explore traditional crafts such as kente cloth weaving, batiking, and basket weaving, while also gaining deep insights into the textile waste crisis at the Kantamanto market.
“This would have remained a distant dream if it weren’t for the support of MassArt and the Fern Cunningham-Terry Memorial Fund,” Rivas reflects, grateful for the chance to immerse herself in such a meaningful cultural exchange.
MassArt’s role in supporting students like Rivas is further exemplified in the 30th Annual Boston Fashion Week. Rivas, alongside fellow MassArt alum Khammany Phommachanh, BFA ‘24 (Fashion Design), was recognized for her talent and innovative approach to fashion. Jay Calderín, the founder of Boston Fashion Week, highlighted the importance of local talent, specifically MassArt’s students, in shaping the future of fashion.
Rivas’s designs were also on full display at the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) during their “First Fridays: Fashion Fête” event in July 2024. Models showcasing her garments immersed themselves in the crowd, making fashion part of the evening’s vibrant experience. Her designs, crafted from upcycled materials, reflect global waterways and her Colombian heritage. One of the designs, created for Rivas’s father, pays homage to his journey from a small Colombian town to touring the U.S. and Europe as a musician. This touching tribute to her father, along with her sustainable designs, reflects the themes of heritage, resilience, and environmental consciousness that Rivas has woven into her work.
Through her residency in Ghana and her ongoing efforts to merge sustainability with fashion, Rivas exemplifies how MassArt students and alumni use their creativity to address global challenges. Her experiences continue to shape her artistic and social mission, pushing forward a conversation about sustainability in the fashion world and the importance of considering our collective responsibility to the planet.
Creativity Leading the Charge for Climate Action
Continuing our commitment to addressing global causes, MassArt participated in the Climate Beacon conference, held from October 16-18, 2024. This pivotal event brought together experts from global institutions and climate-focused organizations, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue about tangible climate action. This year’s sessions not only centered on innovative ideas but focused on practical steps to create real-world impact, reflecting the urgency of the climate crisis.
MassArt’s participation in Climate Beacon reinforced our dedication to the intersection of creativity, sustainability, and innovation. We proudly showcased the work of our faculty, students, and alumni, including Fine Arts 3D and Sculpture Assistant Professor MarjeeAnne Levine, Associate Provost James Mason, BFA ‘81 (Fashion Design), and Heily Rivas, BFA ‘24 (Fashion Design), whose designs and initiatives highlight the role of the creative economy in shaping sustainable futures. These works demonstrate how artists, designers, and educators are essential to envisioning and executing solutions for climate change.
Barbara Bosworth, Professor Emerita of Photography, received the Cleveland Arts Prize for her exceptional contribution to photography. Known for her poignant exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world, Bosworth’s recent exhibition Sun Light Moon Shadow at the Cleveland Museum of Art, which coincided with the April 2024 solar eclipse, highlighted her mastery of celestial imagery. Her work continues to inspire and captivate, earning her one of the prestigious discipline awards.
A garmet from the Heily Rivas Riachuelos collection. Photo by Amy Fink ‘18.
MassArt Spotlight
Daren Bascome
BFA ‘93 (Graphic Design), Managing Director of awardwinning branding and advertising firm Proverb Agency, was selected by Boston AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Artists) as a 2024 Fellow.
The AIGA Fellows program recognizes “designers who have made a significant contribution to raising the standards of excellence in practice and conduct within their local or regional design community as well as in their local AIGA chapter.”
Education & Opportunity
Education is a powerful force for change—especially when rooted in creativity, equity, and purpose. MassArt is redefining what it means to learn by expanding access, removing barriers, and providing students with the tools to thrive. Through community-focused programs, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering belief in the value of the arts, the College is preparing students not only for careers in art and design, but for meaningful, engaged lives. Creativity is more than a skill— it’s a catalyst for equity, opportunity, and societal progress.
Designing Futures: Flexible Pathways to Creative Careers
MassArt is responding to the changing needs of the creative economy and its creative workers. Our suite of certificate programs is designed to provide accessible, flexible pathways for learners at all stages of their careers. Most recently, the College introduced an online certificate in Interior Design, bringing the total to seven certificate program offerings.
The eight-month Interior Design course admits students of all levels, from the absolute beginner to the working professional seeking to expand their skills. The program merges critical design thinking with practical application, providing students with handson experience in composing material boards, reading architectural drawings, and developing interior presentation designs to wow clients. Students learn about ethical and environmental responsibilities in interior design and the business side of the profession—important building blocks for those who may be contemplating a career change.
For Maria Lopez, an early enrollee, the Interior Design certificate has been transformative. In her words: “This program has given me the tools to turn my passion for design into a tangible career path.”
With new pathways to skill development and career growth, MassArt continues in its mission of access and affordability, ensuring that a creative education serves as a powerful force for personal and professional transformation.
Couture: MassArt Students Design for The Cher Show Opening Night
In a unique collaboration, fifteen MassArt fashion design students created a “Legendary Looks” costume exhibition for The Cher Show, a nationally touring jukebox musical that celebrates Cher’s life and career. The exhibition, showcasing designs inspired by the iconic aesthetic of Cher’s long-time collaborator and Tony Award-winning designer, Bob Mackie, was unveiled on opening night at the Wang Theatre.
Fashion Department Chair Jenn Varekamp worked closely with Jamia Gaffney, Director of Event Marketing at the Boch Center. Visiting Lecturers Joe Carl and Jeury Rosario restructured their Creative Fashion III courses for junior fashion design students to include this design project. Under their guidance, students created couture looks inspired by Cher, with research and support provided by Carl and Rosario throughout the process.
The “Legendary Looks” costume exhibition design team posing together. Photo by Paige Besse.
Nurturing Talent and
Access: The
Power of Giving in Arts and Education
Thanks to the generosity of two remarkable foundations—the Jean Gaulin Foundation and the Andree LaBoeuf Foundation—MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) continues to thrive as a space that fosters creativity and community connection. Their combined gifts of $75,000 are instrumental in advancing the museum’s mission to make art accessible to all in Boston.
In addition, a new partnership with The Boston Foundation and the Frieze Family Foundation has launched the GRAD Last Mile Fund, which provides $50,000 in emergency assistance to undergraduate students in their final year. The fund ensures that students who have exhausted all other financial aid options can continue their education, eliminating financial barriers so they can focus on completing their degrees.
These contributions reflect a broader commitment to the power of art, education, and student success. On Giving Tuesday, MassArt raised over $57,000 from 340 donors, further strengthening its ability to support students and sustain its creative programs. Thanks to the support of our donors, MassArt continues to empower students to find their voices, perfect their craft, and drive meaningful change in the world.
Elevating Conversations on Art, Society, and Education
MassArt’s partnership with GBH’s The Culture Show Podcast reflects the College’s commitment to meaningful conversations on art, education, and social issues. Each month, MassArt President Mary Grant explores topics such as the value of higher education today and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in creative fields.
She has also highlighted the role of art in well-being, citing research on its positive effects on the brain, and has showcased MassArt’s commitment to social impact through initiatives like the MassArt Common Good Awards. Beyond education and creativity, she examines broader societal issues, including the intersection of policy, arts funding, and civic life.
As a leader in art and design education, President Grant brings sharp insights and a deep understanding of how creativity drives change. Through her appearances, she reinforces MassArt’s role as not just a college, but a force for cultural leadership and social transformation.
Costume on display at the Boch Center. Photos by Paige Besse.
Student discusses work at the Industrial Design Spring Show.
Photo by Amy Fink ‘18.
Top, left: Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler explore STEAM at MassArt.
Top, right: At the State House.
Photo by Brendan O’Bryan.
Bottom, right: Noe Ortega, Commissioner of Higher Education, touring student studios and discussing their work and career goals. Photo by Mike Ritter.
Advocating for the Future of Art and Design Education
As the only public, freestanding college of art and design in the country, MassArt plays a critical role in making high-quality creative education accessible and equitable. Throughout 2024, the College deepened its commitment to this mission, engaging directly with state leaders and policymakers to advance a bold vision for the future of art and design education.
When a group of MassArt undergraduates, led by Brendan O’Bryan, Director of Government and Corporate Relations, visited the Massachusetts State House to meet with legislators, we saw our efforts come to fruition. These students, each bringing their own lived experience, shared how their education is shaping their futures and how continued investment in public arts institutions is vital for accessibility, affordability, and economic success. They met with officials, including State Senator Liz Miranda, State Representatives Patricia Duffy and Sean Garballey, and the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development. The discussions focused on how MassArt’s work aligns with the Commonwealth’s higher education priorities, including workforce development, community engagement, and the integration of the arts into Massachusetts’ innovation economy. Central to these conversations was the future of the Tower building, a cornerstone of MassArt’s campus and home to many of our academic and community programs. Following last year’s $6.5 million state investment to assess the building’s condition, students and College leaders made a strong case for continued funding to move forward with much-needed renovations.
Advocating for art and design education doesn’t just happen in state offices—it also happens on campus, where the impact of creative education is most visible. In 2024, MassArt welcomed state leaders, including Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler, for an engaging discussion on the critical role of STEAM education—an approach that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—to prepare students for the evolving demands of the workforce. Their visit reinforced the idea that art and design are not just disciplines of self-expression, but essential drivers of innovation and problem-solving across industries.
That same spirit of creativity and impact was on display when members of the state legislature’s Joint Committee on Higher Education, along with Commissioner Noe Ortega and Senior Deputy Commissioner
Jose Luis Santos from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, visited MassArt’s studios and classrooms. As they toured the bustling campus, they had the opportunity to engage with students in Fashion, Industrial Design, and Architecture, many of whom were preparing for end-of-year reviews. Seeing the work up close—garments designed for sustainability, prototypes for new products, architectural models addressing real-world challenges—brought MassArt’s mission to life. It was a powerful reminder of how an education rooted in creativity fosters both technical skills and critical thinking, equipping students to shape the future of the creative economy.
MassArt’s commitment to advocacy extends beyond higher education and into the broader community, particularly in its work to expand access to the arts for young people. The College’s Artward Bound program, which provides intensive arts education for Boston-area students, played a key role in this effort by hosting the city’s state legislative delegation. Representatives David Biele, John Moran, Daniel Ryan, Rob Consalvo, Samantha Montano, Chynah Tyler, and Jay Livingstone, along with staff from the offices of State Senators Mike Rush and Liz Miranda and State Representative Dan Hunt, came to campus to meet Artward Bound students and see firsthand how the program is transforming lives.
Massachusetts Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer also visited MassArt’s campus to learn more about our innovative programs and partnerships in support of environmental stewardship and sustainability, and Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones and Executive Director of the Mass Tech Collaborative Carolyn Kirk toured our studios and classrooms to learn more about how our innovative programs and collaborations impact the workforce and economy of the Commonwealth. These conversations underscored the importance of early exposure to the arts in fostering confidence, creativity, and career readiness.
Through these advocacy efforts—whether in the halls of the State House or in the heart of its own campus—MassArt is championing a future where art and design education is recognized as a powerful force for economic, social, and cultural impact. By ensuring that students have a voice in shaping their own educational experiences, and by demonstrating the value of creativity at every level of society, the College continues to demonstrate art and design as effective tools for advancing our common good.
MassArt Spotlight
MassArt Talent has shined on GBH’s Community Canvas initiative since it was launched in fall 2024. MassArt students, alumni, faculty, and staff have continued to shine— bringing vibrant, thoughtprovoking work to one of Boston’s most visible creative platforms. This initiative, presented by The Culture Show, showcases the work of local artists on the GBH Digital Mural above the Massachusetts Turnpike, viewed by thousands of commuters each day.
Among the MassArt community members featured are illustration major and sculpture minor Ari Bowman, BFA ‘26 (Illustration and Sculpture), whose abstract painting drew inspiration from the Makanda Project’s Jazz on the Green summer series, and alumnus Sherwin Long, BFA ‘13 (Illustration), a Dorchesterbased illustrator whose vibrant, collage-like work conveys a message of self-empowerment and creative agency. Their work exemplifies the depth and diversity of talent fostered at MassArt.
Community Canvas is just one expression of MassArt’s ongoing partnership with GBH, which also includes President Grant’s appearances on The Culture Show and GBH’s role as media partner for this year’s MassArt Auction. As this collaboration continues, so too will the opportunity to elevate and celebrate the creativity of the MassArt community.
Sheila Pepe BFA ‘83 (Ceramics) was awarded the Henry W. and Marian T. Mitchell Rome Prize in Visual Arts by the American Academy in Rome. A surreal artist and feminist activist, Pepe is known for her site-specific installations crafted from domestic and industrial materials.
The prestigious Rome Prize is awarded annually to American artists and scholars, granting recipients a fellowship for advanced research and creative work at the American Academy in Rome.
Celebrating Civic & Creative Excellence
FEATURED
2024 Common Good Awards
On a bright December afternoon, the MassArt community came together to celebrate the transformative power of creativity at the second annual Common Good Awards. Hundreds of artists, educators, advocates, and community members gathered to honor individuals whose dedication to art, education, and social impact is shaping stronger, more connected communities. These honorees—visionaries across disciplines—exemplify MassArt’s belief that creativity is not just an individual pursuit, but a force for collective good. From educators using art to empower students, to designers reimagining public spaces, to artists fostering resilience and joy, each awardee has demonstrated how art and design can drive meaningful change. The ceremony was not just a moment of recognition, but a call to action—an affirmation of the enduring role of the arts in building a more just and compassionate world.
The 2024 Common Good Awards winners. Photos by Mike Ritter.
THE AWARDEES
May Chau, BFA ‘07 (Art Education), Frances Euphemia Thompson Award for Excellence in Teaching recipient and Visual Arts Supervisor for Somerville Public Schools, credits her mentors with sparking her love for ceramics, inspiring her to use art as a common language in her teaching practice.
Shirley Ann Session Edgerton, community activist, educator, and founder of the Rites of Passage and Empowerment (R.O.P.E.) program, reminded us of the importance of community empowerment, particularly for young women of color.
Toni Elka, BFA ‘86 (Painting), Distinguished Alumni Award recipient and Founder of Future Chefs, reflected on how her time at MassArt gave her the skills she needed to help others pursue their own dreams.
Yinette Guzman, BFA ‘08 (Architecture), Senior Project Manager of Design and Placemaking at the North Shore Community Development Coalition, shared a deeply personal moment, speaking in Spanish about the unwavering support of her family and the transformative experience of being a first-generation college student at MassArt.
Thaddeus Miles, photographer, founder of the Black Joy Initiative, and Senior Director of Diversity Initiatives at MassHousing, issued a powerful challenge to the audience: get involved in the community and use the arts as a tool to foster compassion, celebrate resilience, and build stronger connections.
Frederick Wiseman internationally renowned Emmy-winning filmmaker, theater director, and chronicler of the human experience, spoke of challenging systems through his decades of work as an acclaimed documentary filmmaker.
Sam Kim, BFA ‘18 (Industrial Design and Ceramics), a Korean-American artist and designer, created custom ceramic pieces for the honorees using slipcasting—a technique typically used for mass production—to craft distinctive, one-of-a-kind works.
Photo: Mike Ritter.
May Chau photo by Ryan Sullivan. Other headshots courtesy of awardees.
2024 Board of Trustees
Appointed by the governor, MassArt’s Board of Trustees provides strategic oversight and leadership to ensure the College continues to thrive as a beacon of creative education. With a shared commitment to advancing art and design, our trustees bring expertise spanning industries such as arts and culture, higher education, nonprofit strategy, journalism, government relations, and creative entrepreneurship. MassArt is fortunate to have a Board that not only champions creativity but exemplifies it. From executive leaders in advertising and auction houses to founders of creative consultancies and working artists, these individuals offer a dynamic blend of vision, experience, and passion—driving forward MassArt’s bold and transformative mission.
Karen M. Keane, Chair
Daren Bascome ‘93, Vice Chair Sunand Bhattacharya
Suzanne Bump
Lina Maria Giraldo ‘06
Denise Korn
Peter Nessen
Janice M. Saragoni
Kelly Sherman ‘02
Jeffrey Young, Student Trustee
Welcoming New Leadership
This year, we extend our deepest gratitude to Board chair Karen Keane, who has done an exceptional job helming the Board of Trustees with her thoughtful leadership and vision. Chair Keane and her fellow trustees’ dedication to MassArt’s mission has helped guide the College through a year of innovation and achievement. We were excited to welcome Former Massachusetts State Auditor Suzanne Bump and student trustee Jeffrey Young as the newest members of the Board of Trustees in 2024.
Suzanne Bump has been an active member of the MassArt Foundation Board and Auction Committee. She served for 12 years as Massachusetts’ State Auditor, the first woman to hold this position. As the state’s chief accountability officer, she was committed to building public trust in the government’s capacity for self-examination and self-correction. Prior to that, she served as Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development to Governor Deval Patrick. Suzanne has also held the roles of state representative, private sector attorney, and member of several non-profit boards. Her career has spanned policy-making, regulated industry compliance, program administration, human services program delivery, and government accountability. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the National State Auditors Association’s Excellence in Accountability award, the Abigail Adams award from the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus, and the “Woman of the Decade” award from Emerge Massachusetts. Suzanne is a graduate of Boston College and Suffolk University Law School.
Jeffrey Young ‘26 is pursuing his BFA in the Studio for Interrelated Media, and also serves as Trustee for the Student Government Association.
2024 MassArt Foundation Board
The Foundation Board of Directors is a committed group of supporters who volunteer their time to advance the mission of MassArt to expand philanthropic support for the College. In concert with the Vice President for Advancement, they identify and support fundraising priorities that help the College and its community flourish.
President Mary K. Grant
Provost Brenda Molife
Emily Foster Day, Executive Director
Deirdre Nectow, Chair
Andra Dekkers, Vice Chair
Patricia Rivers, Vice Chair
Ted MacLean, Treasurer
Katie Block
Suzanne Bump
Richard Coffman
Nina Fletcher ‘91
Courtney Jacobovits
Alison Judd M‘07
Ashley Karger
Wanita Kennedy
Fred HC Liang, Professor, Fine Arts 2D & Printmaking
Elizabeth Lowrey H’19
James Mason ‘81, Associate Provost
Emma Pickard
Janice M. Saragoni, Trustee Representative
Valentine Talland
Martha (Marty) Willis
Nick Winton
Looking Back, Moving Forward: With Gratitude
Thank you. Your unwavering belief in the power of creativity makes everything we do possible.
This year, the generosity of the MassArt community has made a profound impact. With your support, we have expanded access to education, nurtured innovation, and created opportunities for our students, faculty, and communities to thrive.
Art and design are powerful drivers of change, instruments that inspire individuals, uplift communities, and address the critical issues of our time. At MassArt, we are committed to providing an education that not only fosters artistic growth but also strengthens the fabric of society. Through our students, faculty, and alumni, and our broader community, we continue to use creativity to build a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
MassArt leads in harnessing the creative economy for meaningful change. By developing entrepreneurs, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and empowering innovation, we remain committed to tackling the urgent challenges of today through creative expression. Your support helps shape the next generation of artists, designers, and innovators, ensuring they have the resources to create a better world.
Please consider making a gift at massart.edu/giving.
Every gift, no matter the size, helps us fulfill our mission of Stewarding Creativity. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and excited to continue this journey together. Your ongoing support ensures MassArt will continue to inspire, challenge, and create for years to come.
Together, we create with purpose.
Percussion and performance artist Maria Finkelmeir puts on a show at the 2024 Twilight at MAAM event. Photo by Amy Fink ‘18.
Cover art: Sean Riley, BFA ‘99 (Painting). Shoreline, 2022. Oil on paper.
Above: Artmaking at the MassArt Night Market. Photo by Bountheng Tanakhone ‘18.