Montclair State University - Department of Art and Design

✏️ Classroom Feature: Perceptual Drawing

Step behind the scenes in ARFD 100 Perceptual Drawing with Professor Alyssa Fanning.

From still life to perspective, figuration to landscape, students in this foundational studio course are sharpening their observational skills through hands on drawing exercises that support every visual art and design discipline. The studio was buzzing as students took on large scale projects, pushing scale, detail, and expression in exciting new ways. 🖼️

Professor Alyssa Fanning brings both professional experience and artistic excellence into the classroom. A practicing artist and adjunct faculty member, she was recently awarded a 2026 Individual Artist Fellowship in Painting from the New Jersey State Council of the Arts, recognizing outstanding achievement in the field. 🏆

Whether you are building core skills, exploring creative expression, or fulfilling your GenEd Fine and Performing Arts requirement, ARFD 100 is where seeing becomes creating. ✏️

Photos shot by Alyssa Fanning

Last night was filled with smiles, hugs, proud moments, a few tears, and awards honoring students who have done incredible work throughout their years in the Department of Art & Design. Made to be Seen brought together the creative voices of 34 graduating Visual Arts seniors in the final exhibition of the Spring 2026 semester.

To our graduating seniors: this is only the beginning! Keep creating, keep taking risks, keep trusting your voice, and keep showing the world what only you can make.

We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see where your creative paths lead next. 🎓🎨✨

🎨✨ Only a few more days to experience Made to be Seen ✨🎨

Celebrate the incredible work of our rising Visual Arts graduates in the final exhibition of the Spring 2026 semester. Featuring painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, video, and immersive installations, this show is filled with bold ideas and fresh creative voices.

Join us for the closing reception this Wednesday! Don’t miss your chance to catch this inspiring show before it’s gone 👀

📍 Finley Gallery, Finley Hall
📅 On view through April 29
🎉 Closing Reception this Wednesday, April 29, 6–8pm

The BFA Illustration Thesis Exhibition wrapped up Monday night with a closing reception full of smiles, awards, and well-deserved recognition. 🎉

Finley Gallery was buzzing as students, family, faculty, and friends came together to celebrate the incredible work on view.

From standout pieces to major achievements, the evening was a powerful reflection of the creativity and dedication within our Illustration program.

Bravo to all of the artists who made this exhibition unforgettable. 👏

🎨✨ Let’s end the semester with a must-see show ✨🎨

Made to be Seen brings together the bold, creative work of our rising Visual Arts grads in the final exhibition of the Spring 2026 semester. From large-scale painting and sculpture to textiles, ceramics, video, and immersive installations, this show is packed with fresh ideas and powerful perspectives.

Come support 33 graduating artists and experience their capstone projects as they launch into their creative careers.

📍 Finley Gallery, Finley Hall
📅 On view April 23–29
🎉 Closing Reception: April 29, 6–8pm

Don’t miss it! 👀