51ÁÔĆć

Music Education student Adam LuMaye recognized with Richard G. Gaarder Award

Adam LuMaye stands in front of a classroom

Music Education student and saxophonist Adam LuMaye was recently awarded the Richard G. Gaarder Award at this year’s Wisconsin Music Educators Association conference. The achievement recognizes excellence in leadership, musicianship, and service to the music education community.Ěý 

The award honors the legacy of the former executive director of the Wisconsin School Music Association, Richard G. Gaarder. He is credited with laying the groundwork for music programs and education throughout Wisconsin. Receiving the award helped Adam reflect on his legacy: “I want to leave a lasting effect on my students and the music community.” 

The honor not only recognizes LuMaye’s achievements but also highlights 51ÁÔĆć and Peck School of the Arts for their contributions. According to LuMaye, his peers and professors at the Peck School have granted “so much of their time and energy” to ensure that he is set up for success. 

Additionally, students must be nominated to receive the prestigious prize. Both the nomination and the prize itself recognize an important sense of community in the music education world. He noted that the nomination means that his work does not go unnoticed: “It was a reminder that professors see what I do, providing external and explicit reassurance that my skills are improving.”  

Professor Nicki Roman took to Instagram to praise LuMaye as “a curious, creative, and hardworking student who has gone above and beyond during his four years at 51ÁÔĆć.” She also noted the prestige of the award, emphasizing that LuMaye is only one of two music students across Wisconsin to be recognized. 

Although it does not always receive the mainstream attention it deserves, music education is a massively important aspect of the arts.  

“I wasn’t sure how competitive the award would be, but when I went to the conference, it reminded me that music ed is a massive field with a bunch of unique people in it,” LuMaye said of his experience attending the WMEA conference. He also made note of networking sessions that took place during the event, which helped him get familiar with potential colleagues in the field.Ěý

With student teaching and graduation on the horizon for LuMaye, he took a moment to reflect on how Peck School has impacted him. “I feel very lucky to have been involved in a variety of ensembles and experiences,” he said. Expanding his teaching skills throughout his education helped ensure that he can adapt to the needs of his future students: “It was super important, to me, to better understand how individual students learn best.” 

Adam mentioned that in place of shining the spotlight on himself, he prefers to plug Peck School and WMEA for all they do.

Read more about the Richard G. Gaarder Award on the

Story by Jason McCullum

Introducing Panther Pale Ale with artwork by PSOA student

The signature of designer Gisselle Dominguez graces the can.

Milwaukee Athletics, in conjunction with Pilot Project Brewing, celebrates the release of Panther Pale Ale at 51ÁÔĆć’s Dec. 13 men’s basketball home game. An officially licensed product, Panther Pale Ale was developed in a partnership among Pilot Project Brewing, Craft Beverage Warehouse, Milwaukee Athletics, the Collegiate Licensing Company, and 51ÁÔĆć’s Peck School of the Arts, whose students helped design the packaging.

Gisselle Dominguez (Senior, Design & Visual Communication) designed the artwork that wraps the can.

Read more about the Panther Pale Ale on 51ÁÔĆć Report.

Theatre alum brings ghostly features to life in world premiere production 

Amaya Rockett stands in a courtyard with a warm glow surrounding her.

In Milwaukee’s recent World Premiere of The Forgotten Girl, production design is more important than ever. Viewers are immersed in the world of the main characters Iris and Daniel as they discover the abandoned grave of a girl in their grade and begin interacting with her ghost. 

Scenic designer Amaya Rockett (BFA 2022, Theatre Production) is the one responsible for creating the world where these features come to life.Ěý

When discussing her approach to design, Rockett and her collaborators used the actors to move the set pieces and scenery around the theater. Those who witnessed the performances in person experienced the “whimsical and eerie feeling” of ghostly presences.  

The Forgotten Girl played in the newly renovated Goodman Hall, a 142-seat in-the-round theater, meaning that the stage was in the middle of the venue with the audience surrounding 360 degrees of the stage. Rockett noted how “the variety of settings meant the design had to be malleable, so we created set pieces that were multi-functional, and it worked well.” 

Rockett’s Peck School education helped pave the way for her work on The Forgotten Girl. During her time with 51ÁÔĆć, she worked as a scenic designer on performances of The Laramie Project and The Sparrow. Both productions were in theaters very similar to Goodman, which Rockett credits as forcing her to “think outside the box,” which proved beneficial for her work with First Stage.  

For Rockett, one of the most important aspects of The Forgotten Girl is its rich social commentary, as the story is rooted in themes of segregation and Black heritage. Rockett recognized how she felt immense pride working on this production, crediting First Stage with taking the necessary steps to improve representation on stage:  

“I am always so proud to be a part of shows that can represent Black people… there were so many comments from kids in the show that they were so proud to learn about Black history and present it to an audience.” 

 View production photos and read more about First Stage’s production of The Forgotten Girl on . 

Story by Jason McCullum ’25

Alumni Spotlight: From a childhood dream to the Joffrey Ballet costume department

Ellie Cotey headshot

Ellie Cotey I BFA 2009, Theatre: Costume Production

Ellie Cotey is a talented costume manager, currently showcasing her talent at Joffrey Ballet. Her journey began with a childhood passion for sewing, a passion that eventually led her to pursue a theatre degree at the Peck School of the Arts.  

Educational Journey and Career Path 

Cotey’s fascination with sewing began at the young age of four. Her dreams were woven with threads of creativity, envisioning the creation of stunning ballet costumes and tutus. This early passion led her to the doors of PSOA, where she found her perfect fit. The Costume Production BFA program at PSOA proved to be the ideal canvas for Cotey’s artistic aspirations, “I wanted to take Millinery, Patternmaking, Draping, Painting and Dyeing, Leatherworking… all of it!” 

Impactful Classes and Faculty 

During her time at 51ÁÔĆć, Cotey’s journey was shaped by the guidance of two exceptional mentors, Jeff Lieder and Pam Rehberg. Cotey recalls, “I specifically remember my first patternmaking class and feeling like Pam had just handed me a key that unlocked how all clothes worked. It was so validating and exciting – I felt like I could make anything.” 

Advice to Students

Cotey’s experience at PSOA meant embracing every opportunity that presented itself – and more! When asked what advice she would give to current and future students, she shared, “I got so much out of the classes and professors, and I kept asking for more. I tried to get as much as I could out of each project and did extra projects and research and independent studies. I knew that I was only there for a short period of time, and tried to take advantage of the fact that I was finally getting to do what I wanted to do all day every day. Not every student is interested enough to go above and beyond but DO THAT if you have found what you love to do! Those connections you make at 51ÁÔĆć are what will get you your first job and those relationships can continue for a whole career.” 

In Cotey’s footsteps, she leaves an inspiring trail for future artists and creators, reminding them that with dedication, every dream woven with threads of passion can become a reality. 

Theatre student Lillian Hayward explores the hidden world of dramaturgy

Lillian Hayward sits in the Mainstage Theatre

Peck School of the Arts helps students explore a variety of arts-based subjects, including some that are somewhat obscure in the day-to-day world. Lillian Hayward, a theatre student, is exploring dramaturgy. Recently, Hayward explained dramaturgy and how this special type of theatrical research makes productions feel more realistic. Hayward served as dramaturg for the Department of Theatre’s productions of The Moors and Macbeth.Ěý

Can you explain to readers exactly what “dramaturgy” is? 

A dramaturg is someone who looks at the context of the piece and then conducts research surrounding a play. They also work with the creative team and director to define setting and contextual elements throughout the piece. It’s specific theatrical research about a play. A dramaturg looks at history, context, and sociocultural matters. Sometimes, research is about set design, like furniture or architecture. 

Recently, you worked on 51ÁÔĆć’s production of The Moors, a black comedy set in 1840s England. What went into your research to ensure a successful production? 

Well, part of the reason the dramaturgy role is somewhat unknown is because of its fluidity. The work done on a specific show is not going to be the same kind of work done on every other show. So, the work I did for The Moors was specific to the needs of that specific production, same goes for Macbeth.

The Moors is loosely based around the life and work of The Brontë family, specifically members Emily, Anne, and Charlotte. I did a lot of text work and research on them. I also worked with the cast to dive into the mindset of the time and the weight of the words. This is a modern piece, and we have some fantastically beautiful but difficult source material. We had to find a connection between the two.

Describe how being a SURF grant recipient this year helped expose you to the work of a dramaturg. 

I am predominantly a stage manager, and we don’t do any research, but we are still a large part of the rehearsal process and have lots of information about our shows. I’ve always enjoyed being a source of knowledge so it’s nice to help the story along in a different way.

I have always been interested in history and literature. Last year in school I did a huge research project on art critic John Ruskin from the Victorian times—he was quite a man! I really woke up to the idea that I have a profound love of research. Around this time, I learned about the SURF grant, which was a great honor. I am very proud and feel very grateful to my professors, colleagues, and the whole theater department for encouraging me throughout my education.

Next month, your work on Macbeth will be showcased. What was the process of working on this show and how did it differ from The Moors? 

Working on Macbeth was a beast! It is the first Shakespeare piece I’ve ever worked on in a collegiate setting, so it was brand new ground for me. So, I had to learn about the Jacobeans and Shakespeare. I worked with Dr. Robin Mello, and she has been a truly wonderful asset. We have been partners in this, and I have learned greatly from her writing and expertise.

With dramaturgy, there are the research and history components, but then there is also the communication aspect. So, with Macbeth, I’m writing dramaturgical notes, which you can find in the program at the show. They focus on and explore major themes in the show by looking at the text. I look forward to seeing the impact of the notes and getting feedback from audience members!

How do you anticipate audiences will interact with the research that went into Macbeth? 

A large part of why the dramaturgical field is unknown is because a lot of it is done behind the scenes. Similar to The Moors, my name in the program is all the public really sees. Everything else is me working with the actors and the directors to flesh out the world that they see so we can communicate with the audience. You may not be able to see me, but you may feel my presence.

With Macbeth, it is largely the same. I work a lot with the company to discuss the Jacobeans, their motivations, and other themes throughout the play. Most of my work goes from the actors to the audience, in the actors’ bodies, minds, and how they talk.

What’s next for you?

In addition to dramaturgy, I am pleased to say that I am also an assistant stage manager for Macbeth. I wear many hats for this production!

Next up for me, I will be stage managing a production of An Iliad by Denis O’Hare and Lisa Peterson, which is a retelling of Homer’s Iliad. It is a one-woman show, and the lead actress is an alum of 51ÁÔĆć. It is performing at Waukesha Civic Theatre in February.

Then, in the springtime, I am one of the directors for the New Dramaworks Short Play Festival here at 51ÁÔĆć. I will be directing a short play by Maria Pretzl. This will be my directorial debut, and I look forward to stretching my creative side.

Hayward’s experience is an excellent example of how the tools at PSOA help students flourish in fields that may be brand new to them. With all the fascinating work that she has done, Lillian is certainly one to watch at 51ÁÔĆć.Ěý

Information about upcoming events can be found on the PSOA Events Calendar.

Story by Jason McCullum

Assistant Professor Marquise Mays featured on Creating Milwaukee series

Marquise Mays is interviewed for the documentary series by No Studios.

Assistant Professor Marquise Mays was featured in a recent episode of No Studios’ mini-documentary series Creating Milwaukee. The series showcases some of Milwaukee’s best artists and creatives, shining a light on their connection to their community through art.Ěý

Marquise Mays is not only an award-winning filmmaker but is also an assistant professor in Film, Video, Animation, and New Genres at PSOA. Growing up in Milwaukee, Mays documents how film offers an identity for himself and his community. “I feel like Black people in this city have a very special connection to the theater,” Mays notes, adding that cinema is an opportunity for the Black community to explore life outside of the barriers that surround them. Because of this, he has used documentary work to blend creativity with the ability to report on behalf of his community.Ěý

As an assistant professor, Mays stresses the importance of community in the filmmaking process: “The one thing I try to tell my students the most is that the people that you are sitting next to in your first film class will probably be some of the greatest collaborators you ever have.” Mays notes that he reconnected with a classmate from his introductory film course to help him complete his documentary The Heartland. 

Learn more about Marquise and watch the episode on the . 

Two music alumni step into major roles in opera productions in the same week, worlds apart

The Lyric Opera of Chicago announced that Kathryn Henry (BFA 2016, Music) will for the Sunday performance of Jenůfa. The same week, the Deutsche Oper Berlin announced Lauren Decker (BFA 2013, Music) of La Zia Principessa in “Suor Angelica” in “Il Trittico.”

Art & Design professor named Higher Ed Art Educator of the Year

Kim Cosier poses in an art studio

Kim Cosier, Professor Emerita of Art Education, recently received the great honor of Wisconsin Art Education Association (WAEA) acknowledging her with the award for Higher Ed Art Educator of the Year. She was among only 11 educators, ranging from elementary to college level, to be recognized.  

Professor Cosier credits the support from her colleagues and students as a driving force behind receiving the award, which represents the important concept of community in the art world.   

“The art ed community across Wisconsin is there to lift each other up and I really love that about the WAEA and art teachers in general,” Cosier noted. She also took a moment to add specific praise to the art world of Milwaukee: “I lived in other places before I came here, and I’ve always found Milwaukee to be a place that is really open to collaboration and lifting one another up.”  

Cosier has been teaching and doing amazing work at the Peck School of the Arts since 2001. With her wife, Josie Osborne, Cosier founded ArtsECO, a program that recruits and develops social justice-oriented pre-service teachers, offering support and resources to help integrate the arts into their classrooms. She is also the founder of the , an award-winning program for urban youth that specializes in helping kids tell their own stories through art, video and animation.  

Cosier is an active member of the , a traveling group based in Milwaukee that helps unions, organizations and movements gain momentum by spreading their messages through art and media.

The fight for social justice is important to Cosier, represented in her increased activity in community groups. Some of her battles have dealt with “fighting against racist structures, unfair school policies, immigration policies,” among other barriers that marginalized communities face. Speaking on the importance of her involvement, Professor Cosier noted that “it’s a way to build community and make connections that build a better world,” before expressing her graciousness and gratitude for being involved in this work.    

Story by Jason McCullum

Film and Animation alumni, faculty, and staff represented in screenings around the world

Still from “Light Needs,” Jesse McLean, 2023

From current graduate students to esteemed alumni and faculty members, the Peck School of the Arts Department of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres is well represented on the international film festival circuit this Fall. We’re excited to showcase the achievements of some of our very own who are currently screening their works across the globe.

 

The Open City Documentary Festival is renowned for its celebration of non-fiction cinema. This year, we are proud to have not one but two representatives from the Peck School community showcase their work. Luciana Decker, a current graduate student, and Sally Lawton (MFA 2022, Cinematic Arts), an alum and current instructor, presented their films.Ěý 

 

The Crossroads Film Festival, hosted by San Francisco Cinematheque, is a platform for experimental and avant-garde cinema. This year, it featured the works of Peck School graduate students Sam Drake and Sarah Ballard, as well as accomplished alumni Sofia Theodore-Pierce (MFA 2021, Cinematic Arts) and Brent Coughenor (MFA 2007, Cinematic Arts). Their films promise to challenge conventions and redefine the boundaries of filmmaking.Ěý 

 

The Chicago Underground Film Festival has a rich history of celebrating unconventional and boundary-pushing cinema. It is also the longest-running underground film festival in the world, celebrating its 30th festival back in September. This year, the distinguished festival included films from faculty member Jesse Malmed and alumni Sara Sowell (MFA 2022, Cinematic Arts) and Josh Weissbach (MFA 2013, Cinematic Arts).Ěý

 

The BFI London Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, and we are delighted to announce that faculty member Mike Gibisser screened his work there. His presence at this renowned event is a testament to the caliber of talent within the Peck School of the Arts. In addition to screening at the BFI London Film Festival, Gibisser also screened his work at Imagine Science Film Festival.Ěý

 

DOK Leipzig is an international festival for documentaries and animated films, which stands as East Germany’s original independent film fest. In October, Assistant Professor Laura Harrison screened her film “Limits of Vision” at DOK Leipzig in a segment called Beyond Animation. She will also screen at the Amiens International Film Festival in Amiens, France, this month.Ěý

 

The Imagine Science Film Festival showcases experimental sci-art with a desire to increase dialogues between scientists and filmmakers. Associate Professor Jesse McLean (Department Chair) screened her latest film “Light Needs” at the New York festival last month. She will also be screening in Germany at Kassel Dokfest, a Berlin-based documentary festival exploring short and feature-length experimental pieces. McLean also has work in v01ces: The (Human) Voice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, an exhibition currently showing at Galerie Nord in Berlin.Ěý

 

Described as a mind-bending experience, Light Matter Film Festival showcased over 90 films from around the globe. With over 1,000 minutes of content screened, Light Matter celebrates avant-garde visual storytelling through cinema and media art. Several staff members and alumni were featured at this year’s event, including assistant professor Ben Balcom (MFA 2015, Film), David Witzling (MFA 2009, Film), Sofia Theodore-Pierce (MFA 2021, Cinematic Arts), Saif Alsaegh (MFA 2019), current grad student and Princess Grace award recipient Sarah Ballard, Luciana Decker, Sam Taffelr, Sam Taffel (MFA 2023, Cinematic Arts), and Stephanie Barber (MFA 1998, Film).Ěý

 

Media City Film Festival is not only a highly esteemed event that showcases and supports avant-garde filmmaking, but also the only film festival in the world to operate on both sides of an international border, operating out of Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan. Current graduate student Sam Drake and alum and winner of a MacArthur Genius award Sky Hopinka (MFA 2016, Cinematic Arts) screened films in the exceptionally unique event.Ěý

Congratulations to all our students, faculty, and alumni who got to take their films around the globe during the Fall of 2023. For more information about the Department of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres and its programs, visit their webpage.

Screenings accurate at time of publication. Story by Jason McCullum.

Plays by Associate Professor Alvaro Saar Rios take center stage across the country

Alvaro Saar RIos

Few playwrights encapsulate the wonders of multi-generational experiences better than Associate Professor Alvaro Saar Rios. A lifelong Texican and head of the Theatre Practices (BA) program at Peck School of the Arts, Rios has published six plays and amassed a wide range of accolades taking his plays across America. He has worked with esteemed organizations such as the Kennedy Center, First Stage, and Houston Grand Opera.Ěý 

Throughout Fall 2023, Rios has seen many of his plays take center stage in a variety of American theatres, a testament to his ability to connect with and inspire others through the written word.Ěý 

Carmela Full of Wishes 

First up, Rios’ Carmela Full of Wishes opened this September. An adaptation of the New York Times Bestseller created by Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson, Carmela tells the story of the titular character making a birthday wish alongside her brother. The play tells an enriching tale of working-class neighborhoods, immigration in modern times, and the strong bond within our families. The play is bilingual and performed in both English and Spanish. 

When sitting down with Professor Rios, he discussed the desire to continue telling stories that revolve around issues that children are dealing with today, specifically gender inequality. “What’s great about young audience theater is that you can take on the tough subjects because kids go through it,” Rios said, adding that the issues he talks about are multigenerational.  

The script has made its way around Texas this year running at Main Street Theater in Houston, Blinn College in Bryan, TX, and The Magik Theatre in San Antonio. Carmela shows no signs of slowing down, with a planned run at The Growing Stage in Netcong, New Jersey this winter. 

Like a Jet-Fueled Mariposa 

Carmela was not the only piece by Rios brought to life in Houston this fall. His short play Like a Jet-Fueled Mariposa was featured at the 5th La Vida Es Cortos Festival. Co-written with the nationally produced playwright Mabelle Reynoso, this short play tells a futuristic tale about two undocumented sisters seeking a better life by building a spaceship together until it is revealed one sister may have different intentions than the other. 

Mariposa and Carmela Full of Wishes played simultaneously in Houston, which happens to be Rios’ hometown. As a result, Professor Rios got to showcase his work to family and friends who primarily interact with his plays through social media. When asked about the occurrence, Rios commented that this was a great opportunity to encourage audiences of all ages to attend: “I have friends who don’t have kids but really love my work that went to both… friends all across Texas got to see what I’ve been working on.” The piece was produced by the nationally recognized Latinx theatre company Teatrx and is scheduled for publication later this Fall.  

The Mole Hill Stories 

Keeping with his theme of bilingual adaptations, Rios adapted Wisconsin author Lois Ehlert’s children’s stories Mole’s Hill, Cuckoo, and Moon Rope into The Mole Hill Stories. Described as stories that ignite readers’ imaginations, the lead character Topo takes viewers on a journey of discovering the wonders of natural beauty and the world that surrounds us. A vibrant and colorful experience, this piece represents the importance of imagination in storytelling to help inspire others to reach for their dreams.Ěý

The Mole Hill Stories recently closed a successful run at the historic Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University in downtown Chicago. Additionally, the play has been published by TRW Plays, an international publisher and licensor representing award-winning playwrights. 

Esperanza Rising 

If all of that was not impressive enough, Rios will return to Milwaukee with a stage adaptation of Pam Muñoz Ryan’s award-winning novel Esperanza Rising. On December 13, a staged reading of the play will occur as part of First Stage’s Amplify Series. 

This is far from Professor Rios’ first time showcasing his work at First Stage. As a resident playwright with the theater, 51ÁÔĆć students have a place to interact with his plays live and in person: “The fact that my work gets developed at First Stage a lot, my students get to go see my work to show that I don’t just profess about this. This is what I do… In the worlds of Latinx Theater and Theater for Young Audiences, I continue to develop work.” 

But wait! There’s more! 

Alvaro Rios stays very busy in the theater world. He is currently developing a new play as a part of the . Ruis has been commissioned by Lexington Children’s Theater in Kentucky to develop a new play. “Twenty-six theaters across the country have each commissioned a playwright to create a BIPOC Superhero Story,” Rios elaborated. His play is tentatively titled Quetzali vs. The Alebrije of Darkness and is expected to debut in the Spring of 2025.

Rios is also working with to present a 7-performer version of his award-winning play Luchadora. The play is scheduled for production in February 2024 in downtown Seattle.

To continue following Professor Rios and his work, visit or follow him on Instagram .

MFA alum and lecturer Allison Calteux explores family’s history in archival project

Blue-toned circular lace patterns containing vintage-style portraits arranged across a white background.

Allison Calteux (MFA 2023, Art) has been receiving attention for her recent photography project Remnants // relics // remembrance. The impressive body of work examines her family archives through self-portraits and still-life interactions with books, jewelry, and images, creating representations of her ancestors.ĚýCalteux is now a lecturer in photography and imaging lecturer at PSOA.

She sat down with associate-lecturer-turned-colleague Alayna Pernell to discuss the project on the popular fine arts site Lenscratch. They dove into the project, noting how discussing archival photography in Pernell’s class helped inspire Calteux to explore her family’s history. What resulted has been described as “a commemoration of familial lineage towards the future through the traces of the past.” 

Read Calteux and Pernell’s interview in full on . 

Brennen Steines ’18 opens solo show at Dimin Gallery in NYC

Brennen Steines (BFA 2018, Art: Painting & Drawing) opens a solo show November 30 at . The exhibition, which features large-scale works by the abstract painter, is on view through January 20, 2024.

Teaching professor Carl Bogner recognized for outstanding work on behalf of LGBTQ community

Headshot of Carl Bogner

Carl Bogner, teaching professor in Film, Video, Animation & New Genres, has been honored by the Universities of Wisconsin with the Dr. P.B. Poorman Award for Outstanding Achievement on Behalf of LGBTQ+ People.

The Dr. P.B. Poorman Award is given to people who have helped create a safer and more inclusive climate for LGBTQ+ people. The award, now in its 15th year, is named for Paula B. Poorman, a faculty member at UW-Whitewater dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people.

Bogner directed the LGBT+ Film/Video Festival for over 20 years, curating an array of representations of the LGBT+ communities to audiences and providing a platform for dialogue relating to understanding, making room for difference, acceptance, and inclusion. The festival ran for nearly 35 years on 51ÁÔĆć’s campus and was revered as an institution in the community.  

Peck School of the Arts colleagues were thrilled to hear of Bogner’s recognition, sharing that they believe the award is well-deserved after many years of dedication and service.

“Carl’s programming extended beyond the classroom and festival. His presence in the greater Milwaukee arts community and beyond is enormous, and he positively impacted thousands of lives,” said Jesse McLean, Chair of the Department of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres.

“A fierce advocate for justice, with a killer wit and extraordinary intelligence, Carl Bogner is one of the most beloved people I know, deservedly so. It is a highlight of my career to work alongside him,” McLean added.

“Carl Bogner’s teaching is extraordinary, and he leaves a lifelong impression on the fortunate students who shared a classroom with him. To be honest, I learn a ton from him—always,” said Steve Wetzel, Associate Professor.

Although the festival celebrated its final run in 2020, Bogner continues to make a positive impact on the LGBT+ community through the festival’s successor, the Queer Curatorial Fund. The QCF supports numerous screenings, travel to festivals and conferences, and student curatorial activities in recognition of artistic excellence by LGBT+ artists and allies. 

Bogner was one of 13 people who were presented with the Dr. P.B. Poorman Award presented at a ceremony and reception in Madison on Nov. 9.

Brian Hollendyke wins Emmy for editing short film

Brian Hollendyke (MFA 2014, Film) won an Emmy for his editing work on the short film “,” which documents the visionary Ho-Chunk Native American artist.

Art & Design Professor Nathaniel Stern featured by Forbes

A vibrant artwork depicting a glowing blue bull on the left and a horned, humanoid figure surrounded by bright flames on the right.

Professor Nathaniel Stern was prominently featured in Forbes’ recent article, “The Moon is a Trick: AI Flings Greek Mythology All-Stars into Space.” Known for merging art and technology, Stern’s recent project, “,” uses AI to imagine how Greek mythological characters might recite at a poetry slam in space. He recorded the poems and collaborated with digital artist Anne Spaltero to provide sounds, illustrations, and in some cases, video to accompany the prose.

Read more about his work .