Academy of Art University

Zimife shares his path from watching movies as a kid in England to directing his own films in San Francisco. As a deaf filmmaker, he's found that body language — the thing he reads most fluently — is exactly what makes a great performance. Discover how Academy of Art University provides the accessibility, creative community, and industry preparation he needs to continue developing as a filmmaker and director.

Learn about our School of Motion Pictures & Television: https://www.academyart.edu/academics/motion-pictures-television/

He Couldn't Find a Deaf Director. So He Became One. | Student Spotlight Zimife shares his path from watching movies as a kid in England to ...

Our AAU Graphic Design students won big in GDUSA's 2026 American Package Design Awards, tying for the most wins by any college or university. Their work also placed ArtU among the top 10 winning organizations nationwide, alongside leading brands and design teams including PepsiCo, Disney Consumer Products, and Mattel.

Congratulations to our award-winning designers:

✨ Linda Phuong Thao Nguyen — Ducati Strada Skincare
✨ Jihyeon Park — Egger Beer
✨ Lizbeth Jayna — Jack in the Box
✨ Linda Phuong Thao Nguyen — Magnolia Brewing
✨ Hannah Martinez — Peloton Skincare
✨ Samantha Wu — Snowden Vineyards
✨ Jisoo Cho — Vivani Chocolate Package & Shipper Display
✨ Sofia Balli Montalvo — Casa Nueva Wine

Check out the packaging designs that stood out on the national stage.

A powerful study of connection, identity, and the bonds that shape us.

Through expressive charcoal and intertwined figures, Seulgee Lee creates an image that invites us to pause, look closely, and consider.

What stands out to you most in the work?

In Seulgee's own words:

"Rooted in my experience as a woman, mother, and partner, this work explores the intricate architecture of family. Intertwined figures merge into a single entity where the illusion of separation dissolves. Within this closeness, support and burden coexist; to hold and to be held become indistinguishable. This physical entanglement leaves the central figure simultaneously sustained and constrained, reflecting the profound tension between deep connection and individual autonomy."

This exemplary work of art is featured in our Spring Show.

Ton's career took him from photography school in the Netherlands to physics, high tech, and life around the world, but photography remained his first love. In this Student Spotlight, Ton shares why he returned to school, how ArtU’s instructors helped him move beyond technical image-making, develop a more artistic voice, and create work that explores identity, emotion, and the lifelong process of finding yourself.

Learn about the Art U School of Photography: https://www.academyart.edu/academics/photography/

He Left Photography for 40 Years — Then Found His Way Back | Student Spotlight Ton's career took him from photography school in the Netherlands to...

Lights down. Camera rolling.

From eerie lighting to practical effects, our School of Motion Pictures & Television students know how to set the scene. Behind every chilling frame is a crew bringing their vision to life, one shot at a time. 🎬🖤