Lulu Hamissou is a second-year JSU graduate student, originally from San Francisco, working to earn her M.F.A. in Visual Communication. She recently won Best Graduate Presentation at the JSU Student Symposium for her work “Basquiat: Historic Issues and Deterritorialism Through Art.”

Why did you choose to attend JSU?

I chose JSU because of its strong MFA program. My father is also a professor at JSU, so I thought that relocating closer to my parents, who live here, would be nice.

How did you choose your major?

After working with my hands for so long, I became very interested in digital design and other medias. I really wanted to learn more about graphic design in order to diversify my own design capabilities.

In your opinion, what is the coolest thing about the Art and Design Department?

There are some really neat classes that are offered. As a student, your options range from art history to website design, with many things in between. It allows for students to graduate and be versed in many areas, which allows for more job opportunities in the design industry.

What motivated you to enter the Student Symposium?

I worked on a paper in my American Art class, which I hoped could educate people about some of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s work and encourage people to want to look into other artists of color.

What can you tell us about your presentation?

Our professor for American Art, Dr. Mary Springer, asked us to write about an American artist, primarily focusing on his/her artwork(s) to convey a well-researched argument. Basquiat is an extraordinary American artist who–in his short life—was able to challenge racial tropes by ironically using them against their own stereotype. His use of abstract and reduced symbolism was used to thread themes of exploitation, slavery, injustice, and ancestry into his work. Examining two paintings, Hollywood Africans, c.1983 and Charles the First, c.1982, I described both compositions to explain how he incorporated the themes into his work.

How did you feel when you found out that you won?
Surprised and happy. Because I am not on Facebook, I actually didn’t know. My professor told me in class.

What is your favorite thing to eat and/or drink on/off campus?

I love to eat my parents’ super spicy African food.

Where is your favorite place to hang out on campus?

I like to be outside, so anywhere there is a tree and a place to sit is where I like to be.

Who is your favorite artist?

It’s hard to name just one, but I am very much influenced by artists such as: Glen Ligon, Mark Bradford, Kara Walker, and Alma Thomas. 

What are your hobbies?

Sewing! I absolutely love to sew.

What are your post-grad plans?

I think working for a design or tech company.

What would you tell someone who is considering entering the Student Symposium?

I would encourage students to apply and share their work with others.

What advice would you give a student who is new to JSU?

Learn and absorb everything you can. Our time is so short in school, so make the most out of it.

What is a course you would recommend to a freshman at JSU?

Digital Literacy. It is a great introduction to Adobe software.