The Town of Lexicon Lane Welcomes You @mtsuseniorshow | April 10, 2025 MTSU Graphic Design Capstone, the town of Lexicon Lane, welcomes you! April 19–26 | MTSU Todd Art Gallery, Todd Hall, Room 224A Opening April 19, 2025, 1–4 p.m. See the artwork of Quinn Allen • Bri Anderson • Joy Blohm • Luke Byrum…
MTSU Art and Design Student Earns International Illustration Recognition
Lila Gordon, a graphic design major with the MTSU Department of Art and Design, holds a print of her illustration, A Little Fishy, selected for exhibition in the 2026 Society of Illustrators Student Scholarship Competition in New York City. Gordon’s work was one of only 216 selected from more than 4,550 international entries. (MTSU News)
An MTSU Department of Art and Design senior graphic design student earned international recognition for her illustration work, further highlighting the strength of the department’s student-centered creative environment and commitment to professional development.
Lila Gordon was selected for the 2026 Student Scholarship Competition hosted by the Society of Illustrators, one of the most respected institutions in the illustration and design fields. From more than 4,550 submissions received internationally, only 216 works were chosen for exhibition, placing Gordon among a select group of emerging illustrators recognized at the highest student level.
Her selected piece, A Little Fishy, began as a classroom project and evolved into a richly detailed digital illustration inspired by a summer study experience in Cincinnati. The work combines stylized tinned fish packaging, typography, color, and intricate linework into a visually layered composition.
“I decided to make an illustration that captured the beauty and variety of something seemingly mundane,” Gordon said. “I enjoyed illustrating all the intricate details of the cans and adding my own stylized twist.”
The illustration was created during Design Camp, a three-week summer course led by Graphic Design Director and Associate Professor Noël Lorson that combines travel, observation, and hands-on design practice. Students immerse themselves in a city environment, gathering inspiration and source material that later inform studio-based creative projects.
Noël Lorson
“It’s an amazing piece that combines typography, image, and color and deserves to be recognized,” Lorson said. “When the entire faculty works together to educate students throughout their academic careers, you see results like this.”
Associate Illustration Professor Tony Rodriguez encouraged Gordon to submit the work to the competition and noted the significance of the recognition within the professional illustration community.
Tony Rodriguez
“Having your work recognized by the Society of Illustrators means it meets a professional, industry-wide standard,” Rodriguez said. “It’s validation from the same people who are hiring and commissioning work.”
Rodriguez also credited Gordon’s discipline, initiative, and consistency throughout her coursework.
“She submits work early, her ideas are strong, and her drive to create exceptional work is what truly sets her apart,” he said.
For Gordon, the recognition was an unexpected yet meaningful milestone.
“I was absolutely shocked when I found out, and thrilled my work made it in,” she said.
While the award does not include a monetary prize, inclusion in the exhibition carries substantial professional visibility. Selected works are exhibited in New York City and viewed by art directors, agencies, publishers, and industry professionals, often creating pathways for freelance opportunities and future careers.
Gordon said her experience at MTSU helped prepare her for the next chapter.
Lila Gordon stands beside her senior showcase project during the Graphic Design B.F.A. Exhibition at the Todd Art Gallery on April 27, 2026.
“I’ve gained so much invaluable knowledge from the design classes I’ve taken and built lasting connections with my peers and professors,” she said.
Following graduation, Gordon plans to continue developing her freelance illustration practice while expanding her professional portfolio.
Her recognition reflects the broader impact of MTSU’s graphic design program, which emphasizes mentorship, hands-on learning, creative exploration, and real-world application. Through opportunities such as Design Camp, collaborative studio experiences, and national and international competitions, students are encouraged to develop both professionally and creatively.
As Gordon’s work travels to an exhibition in New York, it represents not only an individual achievement but also the continued momentum of a program preparing students to create, communicate, and compete at the highest levels.
Free and open to all, the Department of Art and Design’s Todd Art Gallery (TAG) offers exhibitions and programs that bring campus and community together through shared creative experiences.
Lila Gordon, a senior graphic design major at Middle Tennessee State University, second from right, poses with fellow competitors and the owner of LRB Skate and Record Shop during the recent LRB Skateboard Illustration Challenge. Gordon earned first place after creating an original skateboard design within the competition’s 15-hour timeframe. (MTSU News)
Celebrate the power of creativity as a voice for emotion, storytelling, and personal vision. Through this collaboration, Expressions seeks to highlight the creative arts that can transcend words, capture the essence of human experience, and offer viewers a deeper connection to the artists’ inner world.
Together, these professional and emerging artists engage in a compelling conversation about the pressing issues of contemporary life. From intricately detailed drawings and collages to layered abstractions, mixed media, sculptural constructions, painting to photography, graphic and digital art, their works are relevant and engaging, combining personal views with universal concerns. Themes addressed in this exhibition range from environmental and cultural hybridity to navigating complex social realities like memory, data, AI system expansion, and identity fluidity, using art for social commentary to uplift and critique. Some artists even reimagine and press forward beyond these themes, embracing futuristic realities. Traditional techniques are thus pushed into experimental and innovative spaces.
The exhibition include works from Daniel Arite, Barbara Higgins Bond, Gail Clemons, Mariah Clemons, Kimberly Dummons, Samuel L. Dunson, Dalia Garcia, Samira Hardcastle, Barbara Hodges, Leroy Hodges, Sisavanh Houghton, David Ikard, Dayo Johnson, Henry L. Jones, Neely Jordan, DaShawn Lewis, Michael McBride, Rod McGaha, Michael Mucker, Jimmy Mumford, Wee S. Ng, Robert Orr. Jr, Mamta Patel, Yakruti Patel, Xavier Payne, Destiney Powell, Jairo Prado, Tony Rodriguez, Ashley Seay, Nadine Shillingford, Thandiwe Shiphrah, James Threalkill, Ruben Torres, Tricia Townes, Betty Turney-Turner, Maya Turner, Jennifer Tweedie, Lilliana Velez, Craig Watkins, Mary R. Watkins, Gary L. White, Carlton Wilkinson, and Donna Woodley.
Most of us make art, look at art, read about art, think about art, and believe in the power to transform our lives. These artistic works excel at doing just that, sparking critical conversation and reflection. Art remains a catalyst for visibility and social change, spanning painting, textiles, sculpture, ceramics, and mixed media. The works on view reflect each artist’s distinct voice while collectively offering a tapestry of contemporary expression. The viewers are invited to explore the intersection of familiarity and fresh vision – honoring enduring connection while embracing bold new perspectives. This exhibit brings together a dynamic group of artists whose work reflects a rich spectrum of voices, practices, and perspectives.
The Church Lady by Leroy Hodges
Returning to TAG
By special request, Carlton Wilkinson’s Crucifixion returns for an encore viewing during the August 2026 exhibition. Originally shown in 2025, the work gained renewed attention after an Art and Design educator discovered her father’s signature among the handwritten inscriptions covering the piece, revealing an unexpected personal connection with Lexington, Kentucky. The rediscovery sparked ongoing conversations surrounding memory, participation, and the evolving life of artwork through audience interaction.
Crucifixion by Carlton Wilkinson
Artists’ Panel Talk and Discussion
Carlton Wilkinson returns to TAG as moderator and featured MC for the 2nd Annual Artist Panel Talk, scheduled for 11:30 a.m., Thursday, August 27, 2026, in the Todd Art Gallery, Todd Art Building. Known for his engaging storytelling, artistic insight, and long-standing connections within the creative community, Wilkinson will guide a conversation centered on artistic practice, lived experience, and the evolving role of visual storytelling in contemporary culture.
Where: Cedar Forest Lodge, located in Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Time of Workshops – 9:30 a.m.–Making Inks and Dyes from Nature with Erin Anfinson, and 1 p.m.–Journaling in Nature with Mary Priestly
Date and Times: Thurs., Apr. 30, 2026
Cost: $10 admission / 9:30 a.m.
Symposium Calendar: Select image to Enlarge
Image: Erin Anfinson/Gallery Staff
Updated: Apr. 15, 2026
🟡 MTSU Art and Design Senior Symposium
The Symposium is an essential component of the academic evaluation process for Art and Design majors, as mandated by the state. As an initiative, it aims to assess students’ academic progress and is integral to ongoing accreditation reports. Scheduled for mid-April 2026, the Symposium involves students presenting their research to faculty and peers, allowing for feedback and evaluation.
Where: Todd Art Building, Room 204
Symposium Dates: Apr. 15 – 17, 2026
Symposium Calendar: Select image to Enlarge
Updated: Apr. 9, 2026
🟡 MTSU Art Education students brought learning
to life through a collaborative visit to John Pittard Elementary.
The Art Education Elementary Methods class presented a puppet show for second-grade classes as part of a Fairy Garden project developed alongside Murfreesboro City Schools’ John Pittard Elementary students in grades 2 and 6.
The work will be featured at John Pittard’s Fine Arts Night from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
Special thanks to Sasha Burnette, MTSU alum and art teacher at John Pittard Elementary, for supporting this ongoing collaboration.
🔴 Crafting the Early Modern Book
A Gallery Talk by Dr. Laura Cochrane
In the Walker Library Reading Room, engage and discover with Dr. Laura Cochrane as she explores the craft traditions, materials, and technical knowledge behind the creation and decoration of early printed books.
This talk offers insight into bookmaking as both a functional process and a highly skilled artistic practice.
4:00 p.m.—Thursday, April 9, 2026
Walker Library Special Collections, 4th Floor
The presentation is held in conjunction with the Special Collections exhibition:
The Art, Technology, and Craft of the Book (Spring 2026)
🟢 &THEN 2026 – Graphic Design Senior Show
Graphic Design BFA Senior Exhibition: &Then April 23–29, 2026 Todd Art Gallery, Room 224A | Middle Tennessee State University
The Department of Art and Design presents &Then, the 2026 Graphic Design BFA Senior Exhibition, featuring work by 39 graduating designers.
This capstone exhibition highlights a range of contemporary design practices, including branding, publication design, digital media, motion graphics, packaging, and experimental visual communication. Each project reflects the development of a unique creative voice and a transition from academic study into professional practice.
Step Into the Library
Presented under the guidance of faculty instructors Sheri Selph, Stephanie Simkin, and Melody Tang.
Free and open to all. Come experience the next step in design, what comes next… &THEN.
🟡 Call for Student Artwork | TAG: Murfree Art Gallery
We’re currently gathering work for an upcoming student exhibition in TAG’s off-campus collaborative showspace: Murfree Art Gallery.
We primarily seek 2D artwork. Small 3D works may also be considered, though space is limited. Students may submit up to 3 pieces, and 2D work should not exceed 3 ft x 4 ft.
Please Note: Exhibiting in a Public Space This exhibition takes place in a public government facility. Submitted work must be appropriate for a broad audience and civic setting.
All artwork should avoid explicit, violent, drug-related, or overtly political imagery, as well as content that could be easily misinterpreted in a public environment.
All work will be reviewed for overall suitability.
To submit work, drop it off with Eric Snyder in Room 226 or Rick Rishaw in Room 224B.
Dropping off work does not guarantee inclusion. Space is limited, and selections will be made as work is received, so we encourage you to bring your work in as soon as possible.
Show your artwork in TAG 210 and be a part of the Gallery Practicum Class Exhibition. Submission Deadline: Monday, March 16. Scan the image code to apply.
Explore interdisciplinary minors in the College of Liberal Arts (CLA), connect with faculty and students, and discover how a minor can enrich your plan of study.
CLA invites your participation
When: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.—Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Where: Peck Hall Breezeway
Updated: Feb. 25, 2026
🟢Student Art Alliance Movie Night
Everyone is Welcome, and bring your own baked goods to share.
SAA invites MTSU students and faculty When: Feb. 26 | 6:30 PM Where: Todd Art Building, Room 204
🔴Call for Submissions Extended
AIGA, MTSU Student Group, invites you to apply for their upcoming HYPE SHOW, a Juried Design event. Submission Deadline: Wednesday, March 4. Scan the image code to apply.
Exhibit: Mar. 18–April 8, 2026 Where: TAG: Glass Gallery, Todd Art Building, Room 224.
🟡Student Art Alliance Craft Night
Join SAA for an evening in celebration of the Spring Equinox.
SAA invites you to craft paper flowers and garlands When: Mar. 4 | 6 PM Where: Todd Art Building, Room 204
Updated: Feb. 20, 2026
🟢Community Exhibition | All-Female Art Show
ONE NIGHT ONLY! An annual art experience like no other. The Malia Matsumoto POP-up Gallery returns with another pop culture-themed show featuring…
MTSU Art & Design students, alumni, and community artists When: Feb. 21 | 6–9 PM Where: The Laboratory Gallery
Curated by Claudia V. Caldarola
🔴Skate Night
When: Friday, Feb. 27, 2026 Where: Skate Center West, 849 W. College Sponsor: AIGA, MTSU Student Design Club
Updated: Feb. 19, 2026
🟡 Saturdays At Todd: Weaving with Reclaimed Materials
When: Saturday, Mar 21, 2026 Where: MTSU Todd Art Building, Room 236 Experience Leader:Catiebeth Thomas
When: From May through September 2026 Where: Arrowmont Center for Arts and Crafts, Gatlinburg, TN | Shakerag Workshops, Sewanee, TN | Appalachian Center for Crafts, Smithville, TN Hosted by:Tennessee Craft
🟢HYPE SHOW – Call for Submissions
When: Submission Deadline: Feb. 25, 2026 | Exhibit: March 18–April 8 Where: Use image code to submit | See HYPE in TAG: Glass Gallery, Todd Art Building, Room 224 Hosted by:AIGA-MTSU Student Design Group
Valentine-themed crafting plus student print sales, a perfect stop for handmade gifts and quick studio shopping.
🔴 Valentine’s Market (Student Art Alliance)
When: Thursday, February 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Where: Todd Art Hall, second-floor lobby adjacent to Todd Art Gallery (TAG) Hosted by: Student Art Alliance
Shop handmade work from MTSU art students and support one of the department’s student organizations during this daytime pop-up market.
🔴 DIY Valentine’s Night (AIGA Student Group)
When: Thursday, February 12, 6 p.m. Where: Todd Hall, Room 333 Hosted by AIGA Student Design Club
Create cards, crafts, and Valentine surprises in this evening event hosted by AIGA students.
🟡 Department-Sponsored: MTSU Spring 2026 Print Exchange
What: Student-organized print exchange supported by the MTSU Department of Art & Design Who: Printmaking students
Finely crafted quilts and quilt traditions by the Murfreesboro Quilting Bees
Quilting tells stories through pattern, patience, and shared hands. This winter and spring, Todd Art Gallery and the MTSU Department of Art and Design are honored to host and sponsor a trio of events celebrating the work of the Murfreesboro Quilting Bees. From an afternoon fabric-weaving workshop and a sampler exhibition in the Glass Gallery to their annual quilt exhibition at Lane Agri Park, these events highlight quilting as both an art form and a living community tradition.
Calendar of Events
1 – 3 p.m., Saturday, February 14 – Saturdays At Todd Workshop:5-Color Fabric Weaving Workshop, MTSU Todd Art Building, Room 236
Detail from an art quilt featured in Quilts in the Boro 2026
Event poster for Quilts in the Boro 2026.
Accessibility Notice This program will take place at Lane-Agri Park. The venue offers accessible parking and restroom facilities. Participants with accessibility questions or specific needs are encouraged to contact the Quilting Bees of Murfreesboro in advance so accommodations and logistics can be discussed.
The MTSU Department of Art and Design announces the Fall 2025 Senior Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) Studio Art Exhibition, showcasing the culminating work of Charles Elwell, Dawn Fós, Chloe Keef, Tanya Sharma, and Aliyah Shuman.
The exhibition will run from November 17 to December 3, 2025, in the Todd Art Gallery, Todd Hall, Room 224A, with an opening reception at 6 p.m. on Monday, November 17. The event is free and open to the community.
These emerging artists have developed their final bodies of work under the mentorship of MTSU’s Studio Art faculty, including Assistant Professor of Ceramics Kelsey Duncan, Professor of Painting Sisavanh Houghton, Professors of Print Media Kathleen O’Connell and Nick Satinover, and Associate Professor of Sculpture Michael Baggarly. Their guidance has helped shape each student’s artistic voice, technical advancement, and professional readiness.
The exhibition’s Todd Art GalleryTAGline— Exit Through the Studio! —honors the creative momentum these students carry as they depart the academic environment and step into their evolving careers.
For gallery hours, parking information, and accessibility details, visit mtsu.edu/art.
Image: Fall 2025 Senior BFA Studio Art Exhibition, design, Charles Elwell, gallery staff. Participating students include Elwell, Dawn Fós, Chloe Keef, Tanya, Sharma, and Aliyah Shuman
You are invited to experience history in a new light.
Sourced from The Daily News Journal and The Murfreesboro Union collections at the Rutherford County Archive, this exhibition transforms vintage advertisements into powerful new narratives through painting, fiber arts, mixed media, and video installations.
Artists Frank Baugh, Chrissy Crater, Kelly Herbert, Devin Lamp, Victoria Richardson, and Hannah Weakley recontextualize archival fragments to reveal new meanings, examining everyday imagery and commercial design as mirrors of shifting ideas about identity, community, and cultural values. Each work blends memory, imagination, and aesthetics to breathe new life into the past.
The exhibition also features pieces created in archival arts workshops across schools and libraries, highlighting the power of collective storytelling and creative engagement with local history. Together, these works remind us that archives are not static records of the past but dynamic resources for questioning history, generating new narratives, and envisioning different futures.
Archives aren’t shelves for yesterday; they’re springboards for tomorrow.
Art in the Archive, Buttons, Kelly Herbert
On the Campus of MTSU
Visit the Gallery | Driving Directions
Driving Directions–1512 Military Memorial, Murfreesboro, TN 37132
