The Times

Issue date: 7/2/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Ryan Clements Graduating students proudly display their portfolios from their classwork at Discovery World.

Media Credit: Ryan Clements

Media Credit: Ryan Clements

Portfolio Night at Discovery World is an event that traditionally attracts local businesses throughout the county. It's promoted via direct mailings, website and the Business Journal. This year's promotional package was created by Megan, a graduating student in Graphic Design. The theme is called "Creative Crop" representing a sprouting seed.

The show specialized in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Photography, Web Design, Television and Video Production and also expanded this year to include Animators, Barbers, Welders, Accountants, etc.

These new changes pose challenges for the portfolio in that it normally displays only art programs. This was a show that originally started in art classrooms of the 1960s, progressively working its way out into the hallways, into the school's atrium and finally to Discovery World, each step giving it more visibility.

This "synergy" of trades is the latest in its evolution, with musical bands representing MATC's Music Occupations program, giving calmness to an exciting night.

If the instructors could make improvements, they'd concentrate on traffic flow for employers, making sure they get connected with the proper program. A keynote speaker could encourage and address the students on the future of their industry.

Also, it would be helpful if the students had access to an exhibit area so that their work could be displayed for several days versus several hours.

Some of the instructors of the art program reflect on the shows purpose:

"It persuades high school students to enroll in MATC art programs," stated Craig Smallish, Graphic Design instructor. Kate DenDooven, ViCom instructor noted, "I was pleased when it moved to Discovery World in 2006." Bob Stocki, Instructional Chair of the Graphic Arts Division added, "Being a graduate of MATC, I've come full circle. Watching the show progress is a pleasure."

It's not unusual for the show to attract alumni. Former graduate Andre Slobtsov, with the help of a couple friends, started his own design company "Flack Jacket Creative." One of his reasons for attending was to look for new talent.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools