Chris Howard, a graphic design major from Pinson, AL, has won accolades for the art he has created during his time at JSU. He had two of his creations accepted into the 2020 Annual JSU Student Art Show and, more recently, won Best Cover Design at the 2021 JSU Student Symposium.

Why did you decide to attend JSU?

When I first visited JSU, I fell in love with the small, friendly atmosphere of Jacksonville. When I toured the Art and Design Department with the department head, Seth Johnson, I remember being amazed by the facilities. I was so excited at the possibility of what all I could create here at JSU and what opportunities awaited me. Now three years in, I can say I made the right choice!

What made you choose your major?

I first chose graphic design as my major without really knowing what it is. I just knew I wanted to create cool stuff and get paid while doing it. I quickly learned that I love graphic design, not only because I get to create cool stuff, but I also get to creatively solve problems for other people. There is just something so satisfying about creating a fully fleshed design out of nothing but an idea and a lot of time.

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

Easily, I have to say the coolest thing are my peers. I’m so lucky to be able to take my classes with these amazing people. There is something so special about being able to bounce ideas off one another and learn from each other’s work. I miss being able to spend late nights in Hammond Hall and being able to hang out in groups. I sincerely hope the pandemic slows down by next fall so we can do stuff like that again. I love these friendships I’ve built, and I hope they last well after graduation!

What motivated you to enter the JSU Student Symposium?

I’m not sure if saying I “chose” to enter would be accurate. In my Graphic Design Workshop class, we are doing a handful of client-based projects, and the Student Symposium cover was the first one. So, it was more of a requirement than a choice, but I am very glad I created this design.

What can you tell us about your cover design?

I knew I wanted to create a design that was unique to this year’s Student Symposium, so I wanted to celebrate the pursuit of knowledge through Covid-19 and being stuck in quarantine. The original design was a student with the lettering on his head and the text in his mask in front of an illustrated background, but it just became too busy. My favorite critique from my original design was from one of my closest friends who asked, “Why is it just some bald dude?!” I then simplified it to more of an “invisible man” approach and it came out as this final design.

How did you feel when you found out that you won?

It was definitely surprising because I knew my classmates had created some incredible work, so I honestly had no idea who would win. I am proud of all my peers for their designs, and I’m grateful that I was lucky enough to have mine chosen.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I am currently a member of the ministry team for RUF and a member of AIGA, the graphic design organization.

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

Hands down, Heirloom Taco is the best! I would eat the gulf shrimp taco every day if I could!

Where is your favorite place to hang out on campus?

I used to love spending late nights in Hammond Hall, but due to the pandemic, that’s not really an option right now. Now that the twelfth floor of the library is open, that’s become one of my new favorites. It’s just a nice environment to hang out and get some work done.

Who is your favorite artist?

I feel like my favorite artist changes a lot, but, for now, I’ve been really into Aaron Draplin. There’s also an illustrator on Instagram named Fernando Nunes who I’ve been inspired by for a while.

What are your hobbies?

I spend a lot of my free time playing games with my friends, whether it be Xbox, Switch, or some good ol’ deception card games. I also try to get a good run in at the Rec whenever I can.

What are your post-grad plans?

I think, for now, I’m planning on working in the industry to get the hang of how the business side of things work. Ideally, I’d like to do a lot of identity or advertising work; that sort of design is what interests me the most.

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

I think if there is a topic you are passionate about and you want to share your thoughts on it, then you should definitely enter the Student Symposium. If you’re excited about what you’re presenting, then your viewers are bound to get excited, as well.

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

Take advantage of every opportunity you can! Go to events, go on Rec adventure trips, meet up with friends and make the most of your years at JSU! Covid-19 has taught a lot of us that those moments aren’t always guaranteed, so take full advantage of them.

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

I am currently taking Ceramics I right now, and I highly recommend it. If you enjoy working with your hands and creating some awesome stuff, then you should definitely take this class. I believe there are no prerequisites so it should be open to anyone.