Weekend Workshops Archives
The Design Lab offers workshops for high school and middle school students at our Design Lab studio here at the College of Design. Our workshops are brief, immersive design education experiences, offering a wide range of opportunities for teens interested in design. From skill-building to design thinking to concept-based projects to interdisciplinary design mash-ups and more, our talented instructors guide students in developing knowledge and experience in their focus area. Please continue to visit our website from time to time to learn about new workshops and programs we’re offering.
Explore past Weekend Workshops below.
Fall 2024 // Middle School Weekend Workshop
November 23 // Designing our Future Society
Designing our Future Society
What might our future look like? How do we want to design our world to live the best version of our lives?
In this workshop students will be empowered to design their version of the future using design thinking and design process. Students will be tasked to think in the mind of an exhibition designer for the 2025 World’s Fair Expo by learning a little bit about the history behind the world’s fair. They will then be able to choose what elements of the World’s Fair Expo they would like to design including but not limited to architecture, urban planning, product design, innovative technology, new forms of transportation, entertainment, graphics and branding.
- Grade Range: 6th – 8th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $60
Instructor // Abby Bagwell
I am Abby Bagwell, the Coordinator of Pre-College Programs for the Design Lab for K-12 Education and Outreach at North Carolina State University’s College of Design. Before I began my design education journey I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture at NCSU College of Design and found my passion for working with middle and high school students. I am excited to talk to students about all the different types of design including but not limited to Architecture, Industrial Design, Graphic and Experience Design, and Media Arts, Design and Technology. I am passionate about helping others find their passion whether it’s related to design or not. In my free time I love being able to make things whether it is cooking, baking, painting, screen printing, pouring concrete or designing.
Fall 2024 // High School Weekend Workshops
October 19 // Media Arts, Graphic Design and Technology
Media Arts, Graphic Design and Technology // Type, Tone, and Texture: The Essentials of Visual Communication
Explore the foundational theories that drive great design, learn creative thinking techniques, and gain hands-on experience in typography, illustration, and graphic design for “Phygital Media” (physical + digital media). Learn how to use essential tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, and discover other digital resources that industry professionals rely on. This workshop will also delve into the unique intersections of music, branding, and visual communication, teaching you how to create compelling posters, vibrant zines, and memorable branded content.
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $70
Instructor // Ethan Hunt
I’m Ethan, a graduate student in the MADTech program and I love all things involving printmaking, graphic design and illustration. As an aspiring graphic novelist, I took an interest in design during my undergraduate career at Winthrop University and now hold a proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator. I currently work as a Production Assistant for a print shop and do freelance design when not in class or screen printing.
October 26 // Architecture
Architecture // What’s the Weather?
Investigate the relationship between our environment and architecture through design trails of wind, water, and sun! Students will design a series of creative physical models that will adapt and collaborate with natural systems–gaining a greater understanding of the power of design through topics of sustainability and biophilic architecture. Throughout the project, students will learn fundamental model making skills used within the architectural practice and develop a series of 3-5 investigative physical models. Students will have the opportunity to explore sustainable strategies within architecture and implement them into their designs including rainwater management, passive strategies, energy production, and beyond! Learn how to design with nature in “What’s the Weather?”
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $90
Instructor // Abby Lundergan
I’m Abby Lundergan, a recent graduate of NC State’s Bachelors in Environmental Design in Architecture program with minors in Environmental Science and Landscape Architecture.
As a long-time resident of North Carolina, I am passionate about designing spaces for architecture and environmental systems to co-exist, aiming to build connections between individuals and their landscapes through design. As an avid maker, I love exploring the relationship between physical and digital visualization strategies using hand drawing, watercolor, collage, model making, sewing, modeling software, and digital rendering. Post-graduation, I hope to further unite professional and academic fields of architecture through teaching and research-oriented design strategies; my past research includes topics of historical preservation in Prague, Czechia and socio-economic impacts of urban green space planning in Raleigh, North Carolina. Within my time at NC State, I have served as an advocate for community-oriented design, equity, and sustainable urban planning as Senator within NCSU Student Government and a College of Design Ambassador. I am passionate about sharing the power of architecture and exploring the interdisciplinary nature of design!
In my free time, I enjoy discovering new music as a DJ at NC State’s student run radio station WKNC 88.1. Additionally, I love spending time in the mountains rock climbing and snowboarding!
October 26 // Media Arts, Design and Technology
Media Arts, Design and Technology // Storytelling Basics: Crafting a 4-Panel Story
Find your narrative voice in this introduction to basic storytelling techniques and construct a story from start to finish using just four panels! In this workshop, you can become a comic artist (or a “cartoonist”) for a day and learn to effectively convey a simple storyline using a classic comic template in the form of the four panel strip. Together, we can develop your visual communication skills and delve into the intricacies of comics by mastering reading flow, visual hierarchy, composition, and more! After crafting a visually compelling four panel story in your own unique style, uncover more creative opportunities by exploring how you can take your work to another level and optimize it for social media platforms through the use of today’s digital tools. Come share your stories and explore the joy of storytelling and endless possibilities!
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $70
Instructor // Emilie Tamura Miller
Hey there! I’m Emilie, and I’m a visual storyteller specializing in comics with a BA in MADTech from NC State University and a MFA in Comics at the California College of the Arts. I’m currently working with a literary agent to publish my own graphic novel while I teach art camps and courses at Lune Spark Center for Creativity! I love the accessibility of comics and its use as a tool for communication and the sharing of profound life experiences and unique worldviews. I’m really looking forward to exploring the medium of comics with others and helping them create their own compelling visual narratives!
November 2 // Architecture
Architecture // Form in Focus
In this workshop, students will explore the process of form finding and making. They will engage in a conceptual phase of design through ideation, iteration, and craftsmanship. Through collaging, students will establish a concept for a pavilion that promotes leisure and gathering spaces. These concepts will be translated into form-based models to explore various iterations. Additionally, participants will learn the basics of architectural drawing and will grow a deeper understanding of both the preliminary and practical design skills.
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $90
Instructor // Lira Gomes
Hello everyone! My name is Lira and I am from Cary, North Carolina. I am currently pursuing a Master’s of Advanced Architectural Studies at NC State University where I am conducting research about terroir and architecture inspired by my study abroad in Italy during my undergraduate years. I enjoy working with the process of design through collage, diagrams, and colorful graphics. Iterating on ideas is a vital part of the design process and embracing diverse approaches creates comprehensive learning and understanding.
November 9 // Industrial Design
Industrial Design // Take a Seat and Make a Seat
Chairs: a staple of the Design profession, and the source of some of the most iconic Designs of all time. But what makes a chair beautiful? And what makes it work? In this Industrial Design workshop, you’ll learn how to reinterpret Architectural motifs in a chair design, creating a piece of furniture with a beautiful shape and appropriate load-bearing abilities. You’ll find inspiration, sketch, prototype, and build a scale model of your chair to take home!
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $90
Instructor // Luke Ramsdell
I’m Luke, and I am currently studying Industrial Design and Mechanical Engineering at NCSU. My enthusiasms include furniture, sporting equipment, and tools. I am a passionate nerd for design, engineering and science, and I believe that magical things happen at the intersections of these fields. I aim to formulate a fun learning environment where students are enabled to discover a love for creating.
November 16 // Architecture
Architecture // It’s a Facade!
Come explore the exciting world of architectural design! In this hands-on, one-day workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of facade design by conceptualizing and creating a unique building exterior. Each student will receive a unique client brief and be challenged to design a facade (exterior of the building) that reflects the client’s brand and identity, all while considering aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
By the end of the workshop, students will have multiple sketches, iteration models, and also a final design!
Whether you’re dreaming of a career in architecture or just love design, this workshop will empower you to think critically and creatively about how buildings interact with their environments. No prior experience is needed—just bring your imagination and passion for design!
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $90
Instructor // Gargi Wadodkar
I am Gargi Wadodkar and I am currently studying Architecture with a minor in Business Administration and Landscape Architecture. I love working with people and learning about all the cool sides of architecture. I am particularly passionate about how architecture affects environmental, sustainability and equity factors. In my free time I love reading and watching fantasy/period movies and TV shows! I am also a really big foodie and love trying new dishes and places to eat.
November 16 // Graphic and Experience Design
Graphic and Experience Design // Brand It or Built It: A Graphic and Experience Design Challenge with a Twist
The Graphic and Experience Design discipline has tons of opportunities within it, including branding, user experience, user interface, interaction design, print design, marketing, motion graphics, publication, typography, etc. Are you interested in one or more of these things? Come learn the ins and outs of Graphic and Experience Design to see what you could do in this career field.
You will be able to choose between two projects to complete:
Use your creativity to design a new business concept for a mystery product. The final product will be a complete brand guide showcasing the business’ logos, patterns, icons, color pallet, typography choices, and imagery all made by you!
OR
Create unique online product pages for a mystery product using a brand guide given to you. Learn the basics of Figma, a new software used by most professionals in the industry today.
For both projects, the product you are working with will be chosen by a mystery wheel, to simulate the many different projects you could be given by clients.
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $70
Instructor // Megan Mersch
My name is Megan Mersch and I am currently studying Graphic and Experience Design at N.C. State. I really enjoy branding, marketing, user interface and user experience design. I was previously a counselor for the Design Lab for Design Camp over the summer. I’m super excited to teach the ins and outs of graphic design and help students decide if this major is right for them.
December 7 // Industrial Design
Industrial Design // Lightbulb Moment: An Exploration into Lighting Design
Ready for your “lightbulb” moment? Put on your inventor hat as we dive into the enchanting world of product design to create a whimsical lighting project. This immersive workshop will guide students through fantastical user personas, rapid idea generation, and stylized sketching techniques. Through collaborative brainstorming sessions and 3-dimensional prototyping, students will gain understanding of the design process in a dynamic and supportive environment. Enhance your design skills and bring your innovative lighting ideas to life!
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $90
Instructor // Emma Kalish
I am Emma Kalish and I hold a Bachelor of Industrial Design from NC State University’s College of Design. I attended ELISAVA School of Design & Engineering in Barcelona while studying abroad where I pursued further education in product, furniture, and packaging design. Following graduation, I moved to California for an opportunity with JG SWITZER as a textile designer and project manager. There I focused on optimizing production processes, creating and maintaining relationships with interior designers, and participating in major design exhibitions such as the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York City. Currently residing in Raleigh, I work as a freelance graphic and product designer for local companies. With a strong foundation in design thinking, project management, and product design, I am enthusiastic about teaching workshops where I can share my knowledge and connect with young designers.
December 7 // Media Arts, Design and Technology
Media Arts, Design and Technology // Illuminating 3D Design: An Introduction to Lighting, Textures, and Materials in Blender
This beginner-friendly workshop introduces students to the basics of 3D design using Blender. Participants will explore foundational lighting theory and learn how to illuminate scenes and objects with ease. The workshop also covers how to create textures using procedural nodes and craft simple materials. Designed for beginners, this session provides an accessible introduction to what can be accomplished in Blender, offering a glimpse into the creative possibilities of 3D design.
- Grade Range: 9th – 12th Grade
- Total Seats: 20
- Cost: $70
Instructor // Gabrielle Edwards
Hi there! My name is Gabrielle Edwards, and I am a professor at North Carolina A&T State University. In addition, I work as a practicing artist with a focus on design, lighting, color theory, and drawing. I graduated with a BFA in drawing and printmaking from UNCG and an MA in MADTech from NC State College of Design. I have enjoyed developing concept art, environment design, 3D models, and VR/AR projects because of my MADTech background. Looking forward to working with each of you.
2016-2017 Weekend Workshops
High School Architecture Workshop – Abstraction as a Creative Process // October 8, 2016 // Instructor: Ehsan Sheikholharam
High School Architecture Workshop : Abstraction as a Creative Process
- Saturday, October 8, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Ehsan Sheikholharam
Abstraction is a fundamental concept in design. By removing inessential characteristics of a structure or object, you gain an understanding of its form and most important elements.
In this workshop, students will practice the creative process of abstraction by gaining inspiration from real-world works of architecture to create and build physical models of abstracted structures. Through creative thinking, sketching, and model building, students will gain an understanding of how to move from pure imitation to generating a structure that is both novel and original.
About the Instructor:
Ehsan Sheikholharam is a PhD student and Teaching Assistant in Architecture at North Carolina State University College of Design. He has also taught and served as a lecturer at the University of Miami School of Architecture; as well as served as a guest critic at Duke University, Florida International University and Florida Atlantic University. He has experience practicing architecture and is the principal of the architectural firm ACFORM.
High School Graphic Design Workshop – Mapping the Mind // October 29, 2016 // Instructor: Dajana Nedic
High School Graphic Design Workshop : Mapping the Mind
- Saturday, October 29, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Dajana Nedic
Dive into the design process and learn about some of the creative and critical thinking tools Graphic Designers use when brainstorming and developing their ideas. Participants will practice mind mapping and ideation techniques and apply these skills to create a design-thinking booklet to serve as a resource for future design projects.
About the Instructor:
Dajana Nedic is a graduate student in Graphic Design at North Carolina State University College of Design. She received her BFA in Interior Architecture from University of North Carolina Greensboro. Her background consists of installation design and interior product design. She is interested in design thinking and how it can be implemented in educational systems and curricula.
High School Fibers Workshop – Fiber to Fine Art // November 5, 2016 // Instructor: Gabrielle Duggan
High School Fibers Workshop – Fiber to Fine Art
- Saturday, November 5, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Gabrielle Duggan
This Art + Design: Fibers Workshop will introduce students to the foundations of textile and fashion work. Starting with the raw fiber, students will learn how to build a strand element (yarn) that will be worked into a plane (fabric) which holds potential for uses in Art (Fiber Sculpture, Printmaking) and Design (Fashion, Architecture). Students will learn through traditional and unconventional processes how to make yarn and cloth, and derive unique prints from these creations.
About the Instructor:
Gabrielle Duggan (born Buffalo, NY) material research builds from professional experience as a Textile Lab Technician (Bureau Veritas) and Studio Assistant (Susan Brandeis, Vita Plume, Shoplifter, ThreeAsFour); education in Fine Arts and Fashion (SUNY Buffalo, Fashion Institute of Technology) and Fibers and Surface Design (North Carolina State University, Master of Art and Design); and experiments in fiber cultivation (cotton, wool, alpaca, quiviut) and production technology (hand and digital: woven, knit, and off-loom).
Duggan’s work has been supported by the NC Arts Council (Regional Artist Project Grant), Art on the Atlanta Beltline, Artspace PopUp, and exhibitions at Flanders (Raleigh, NC), Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (Out of Fashion), and Garis & Hahn in New York, NY (Linear Tensions by AH Arts.), as a Fellow (Anchorlight, Salem Art Works), as an Artist in Residence (Ponyride, Musk Ox Farm, IndieGrits, Governors Island Art Fair, Artspace NC), and as an Educator (Georgia State University, North Carolina State University).
Middle School Animation Workshop – Make It Stop // November 12, 2016 // Instructor: Hal Meeks
Middle School Animation Workshop – Make It Stop
- Saturday, November 12, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Hal Meeks
In this Art + Design: Animation workshop, students will be introduced to the stop-motion animation technique. Working with a variety of materials, including clay and paper, students will design short 30 second animations with sound. Along the way, students will learn the basics of storyboarding, creative problem solving and stop motion software.
About the Instructor:
Hal Meeks has a Master’s in Art+Design, teaches at NC State University and is a PhD candidate in NCSU’s Communication, Rhetoric, & Digital Media program. His background is in Digital Media, Animation and Video production. His cellphone is chronically full of pictures and video.
High School Architecture Workshop – What A Relief // December 3, 2016 // Instructor: Marie Schacht
High School Architecture Workshop – What A Relief:
Designing a Response to Hurricane Matthew
- Saturday, December 3, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Marie Schacht
Natural disasters cause a lot of damage. They also open the door to new possibilities. In this workshop, students will explore the impact and opportunities caused by Hurricane Matthew in Raleigh and the NCSU Campus. They will design a small pavilion using a downed tree caused by Matthew. Through the process, students will practice skills in interviewing, site research, ideation, refinement, prototyping, and presenting their design.
About the Instructor:
Marie Schacht believes in the importance of design in helping address critical issues facing the world today. A graduate of the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia, she has found unique ways to apply her architectural knowledge as a professional. Currently, she serves as the Director of Hopscotch Design Festival, designs courses for the Acumen Fund, and coaches for the altMBA, an online leadership course for change-makers. In the past, she’s been a writer at New Kind, a fellow at Design Corps, and a program manager at the University of Virginia Morven Program. Marie loves education and finding ways to share her knowledge and curiosity with students.
High School Graphic Design Workshop // January 28, 2017 // Instructor: Luis Zapata
High School Graphic Design Workshop – VR Space: A Look at How Design Shapes a Virtual Reality Environment
- Saturday, January 28, 2017
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM // $75
- Instructor: Luis Zapata
In this Graphic Design workshop, high school students will be introduced to the world of Virtual Reality (VR). Students will design a VR exhibition space curated around a central theme. Students will practice research and mind-mapping skills, as well as explore design concepts and principles pertaining to graphic design and its exciting impact on the world of VR.
About the Instructor:
Luis Zapata is a graduate student in Graphic Design at North Carolina State University College of Design. He received his Bachelors of Industrial Design from North Carolina State University. His background is in 3-Dimensional forms and photography. His interest are in the use of game design in virtual reality and how that is used in the classroom to encourage participation and academic achievement for students.
Middle School Architecture Workshop // February 4, 2017 // Instructor: Marie Schacht
Middle School Architecture Workshop – Get Wild!
Designing a New Wildlife Viewing Station Near Downtown Raleigh
- Saturday, February 4, 2017
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM // $75
- Instructor: Marie Schacht
Outdoor space is an essential part of a healthy and vibrant city. It gives citizens a place to explore and experience fun while interacting with nature. Design serves an important role in making these spaces highly usable and memorable for citizens. In this workshop, students will explore buildings, green spaces, and their larger urban landscapes. They will design a solution to a usability challenge in a park near Downtown Raleigh. Through the process, students will practice skills in interviewing, site research, ideation, refinement, prototyping, and presenting their design.
About the Instructor:
Marie Schacht believes in the importance of design in helping address critical issues facing the world today. A graduate of the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia, she has found unique ways to apply her architectural knowledge as a professional. Currently, she serves as the Director of Hopscotch Design Festival, designs courses for the Acumen Fund, and coaches for the altMBA, an online leadership course for change-makers. In the past, she’s been a writer at New Kind, a fellow at Design Corps, and a program manager at the University of Virginia Morven Program. Marie loves education and finding ways to share her knowledge and curiosity with students.
High School Industrial Design Workshop // February 25, 2017 // Instructor: Prasad Joshi
High School Industrial Design Workshop
- Saturday, February 25, 2017
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM // $75
- Instructor: Prasad Joshi
In this workshop, students will design a customized product for their friend. The problem statement will be open ended with some interesting constraints which will challenge students to be creative and design an innovative object for the intended user. Focus will be given on the understanding of the design process and thinking beyond obvious.
About the Instructor:
Namaste, I am Prasad. An international student from India studying Masters of Industrial Design at NC State. My background is in Mechanical Engineering but Design is my passion. I have worked with three Design consultancy firms as an Intern and finished three successful projects with LG, Coca-cola, Burt’s Bees and Under Armor. I have enjoyed my time at Design lab teaching Industrial Design during Design Camp 2016 and I am excited to meet all budding Designers at the weekend workshop.
2015-2016 Weekend Workshops
High School Architecture Workshop – Let’s Ride // December 5, 2015 // Instructor: Marie Schacht
High School Architecture Workshop : Let’s Ride
- Saturday, December 5, 2015
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Marie Schacht
Transportation is an everyday part of our lives. People move from place to place in a variety of ways—whether by car, bike, walking, or public transportation.
The bus system at NC State University is called the Wolfline. It is one of the key ways students and staff travel around campus. Suppose the NC State Transportation Department is building more shelters at bus stops to address issues riders have with the current system. They want to engage designers in the process to make the stops innovative and distinct.
Each student in the workshop will design a bus stop that aims to address the needs of riders as well as serve as a gathering place. This workshop is great for students interested in architecture, urban design, or industrial design.
About the Instructor:
Marie Schacht studied Architecture at the University of Virginia. Since graduating, she’s been using her design knowledge to create impactful experiences, businesses, and places. She currently works in Raleigh at New Kind, a creative agency blending design thinking and open-source philosophy to offer a unique community-centric approach to marketing and communications. Before joining New Kind, Marie completed a fellowship with Design Corps, a non-profit working to use architecture as a catalyst for positive social change. She’s been an instructor at NCSU Design Camp the past two summers.
High School Art + Design Workshop – Visual Storytelling // January 30, 2016 // Instructor: Patrick Fitzgerald
High School Art + Design Workshop – Visual Storytelling
- Saturday, January 30, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Patrick Fitzgerald
In this one day workshop, students will watch PIXAR shorts, analyze visual story structures and even make a short film! Students will learn how to create storyboards and gain an understanding of the visual storytelling strategies of PIXAR directors and animators. Students will then apply their storytelling strategies by collaborating in groups to develop, write and film a short story of their own. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn basic story constructs and film grammar in this hands-on workshop.
About the Instructor:
Patrick FitzGerald has a BA from Southern Methodist University and an MFA from the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Prior to joining the faculty of the College of Design at NC State University, Professor Patrick FitzGerald served as an instructor, artist and manager at the Kodak Center for Creative Imaging in Camden, Maine.
His work has been exhibited across the United States and Japan. A lead professor in the Advanced Media Lab for the College of Design, FitzGerald’s research and teaching span the full range of multimedia production, from digital video to interactive 3D animation.
Professor FitzGerald has received national and international awards for his digital illustrations. In 1999, he received a North Carolina Fellowship for the Visual Arts. Recent projects and installations include the 2010 opening of the new NCMA gala (with AML), 2009 Zoom Raleigh (with AML in downtown Raleigh ), 2007 The Consumer Culture Garden (with EAT at NCMA), and GoMAP2.0 (interactive prototype for PDA).
High School Graphic Design Workshop – Breaking and Building a Brand // February 6, 2016 (Rescheduled from January 23, 2016) // Instructor: Allison McCulloh
High School Graphic Design Workshop : Breaking and Building a Brand
- Saturday, February 6, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Allison McCulloh
Walt Disney’s signature. The packaging for an iPhone. A city skyline. Brands and identities are not just symbols: identities can reinforce belonging, tell stories, evoke memories, and spur conversations. In this workshop, students will use the design process and core visual design principles to break down what makes up a brand, and then use those ingredients to create (or recreate) an identity for a community or group that each student either belongs to or has a connection with. This workshop is ideal for students interested in graphic design, communications, design studies, or any student interested in the art of telling stories through images, typography, and experiences.
About the Instructor:
Allison McCulloh is a designer, pursuing her Masters of Graphic Design at North Carolina State University. Both in research and practice her work is guided by the premise that all design disciplines are connected, and that communication is at the core of moving beyond boundaries and creating positive, systems-level change. Allison spent six years at SOM in Chicago collaborating with urban designers and architects to tell stories surrounding the places and systems where we live, work and play. Her design experience ranges from exhibition design to book design to user experience. Allison is currently a teaching assistant for undergraduate typography and graphic design theory at the College of Design. Allison graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design from Iowa State University.
High School Graphic Design Workshop – Designing an Interactive Digital Postcard // February 20, 2016 // Instructor: Brandy Luce
High School Graphic Design Workshop : Designing an Interactive Digital Postcard
- Saturday, February 20, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Brandy Luce
In this workshop, students will create an interactive digital postcard from a place they might have visited or would like to visit over a break or weekend. The emphasis of this project will be on designing an exciting animation to entice the postcard recipient to interact with the postcard to learn more about the location. Students will use graphic design to visually communicate factual and interesting information about the location.
About the Instructor:
Brandy Luce is currently a master of graphic design student at North Carolina State University and a graduate teaching assistant. She graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications and Design. Prior to coming to NCSU, Brandy worked for SCORR Marketing as a graphic designer where she developed brand and corporate identity systems, trade show exhibits, and marketing materials. She is passionate about teaching the fundamental skills and principles of design.
High School Fiber Arts Workshop – Design, Cut, Stitch! // March 19, 2016 // Instructor: Kelly Kye
High School Fiber Arts Workshop – Design, Cut, Stitch!
- Saturday, March 19, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Kelly Kye
In this high school art + design workshop, students will explore the field of fiber arts through collage. Participants will learn stitching techniques, compositional skills and color theory. This hands-on workshop will provide a strong foundation for students interested in creating future design projects in fiber arts and fashion.
About the Instructor:
Kelly Kye is a fiber artist and craftsperson, specializing in hand dyed fabrics and hand stitched, one of a kind quilts. Her mother, grandmother and great grandmother introduced her to textile work, especially quilting, and continue to inspire the work that she creates today. Kye calls downtown Raleigh home, working in a small studio called The Pink Building in Olde East Raleigh. She hopes to share her love of making and craft with as many people as possible through fibers related workshops and the textiles that she creates. Kye holds a Bachelors of Fine Arts from East Carolina University with a concentration in Textiles and Surface Design and a Masters of Art + Design from North Carolina State University.
High School Architecture Workshop // April 9, 2016 // Instructor: Rob Allen
High School Architecture Workshop – An Introduction to Architectural Model Building
- Saturday, April 9, 2016
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Rob Allen
This workshop will guide students in developing a fundamental understanding of how materials come together. Building architectural models is not unlike building model cars or planes, but we will be learning how to create our own “kit of parts” while developing the narrative that will be used to communicate our ideas.
About the Instructor:
A native of Raleigh, Rob Allen received his Bachelor of Architecture from NC State University in 2005. Since 2002, Rob has worked for award-winning local firms Cannon Architects, Vernacular Studio and is currently an Architectural Designer with Gensler. He has served on numerous juries at NC State’s College of Design and has taught a variety of design education programs at the Design Lab for K-12 Education. Both in and out of the office, he is an advocate for functional design, positive environmental impact and a good cup of coffee.
2014-2015 Weekend Workshops
Graphic Design Workshop: Information is Beautiful // November 22, 2014 / Instructor: Robin Vuchnich
High-School Graphic Design Workshop: Information is Beautiful- Except When It’s Not
- Saturday, November 22, 2014
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Robin Vuchnich
Information is Beautiful- except when it’s not! Designing beautiful visualizations that capture ugly problems. In this workshop, students will learn to use graphic design as a means of communicating information and building awareness around issues and ideas. Students will explore visual and impactful ways to represent facts, ideas, data, and information. This is a great workshop for any students wanting to build skills in design and communication for any field.
About the Instructor:
Robin Vuchnich is a UX designer at IBM Design and also an educator. Her work and teaching focus on user experience design, information visualization, design research, and user interface design. Prior to earning her Masters in Graphic Design at North Carolina State University, Robin held the Creative Director position at an interactive marketing agency, Signal Design. She also opened an independent design business in 2008 after several years of practicing as a senior designer at local agencies. She has led design teams on numerous print and interactive initiatives for companies such as GlaxoSmithKline, Quintiles, Lulu Publishing, and several North Carolina universities and government agencies. Over the past decade, Robin’s work has been recognized by the AIGA, and the Addy’s and has appeared in PRINT Magazine several times. In 2011 she served as a juror of the AIGA Alaska Competition. Her current personal work is focused on experimentation with open source programming tools for data visualization and generative art.
Architecture Workshop: Drawing Like an Architect // December 6, 2014 / Instructor: Lorena Akin
High School Architecture Workshop: Drawing Like an Architect
- Saturday, December 6, 2014
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Lorena Akin
In this skill-building workshop, students will learn the basics of architectural drawing, utilizing the tools and techniques used by professional architects. This is an excellent workshop for students interested in studying architecture in college or taking their drawing to a new level.
About our Instructor:
Lorena is originally from Mexico where she studied Architecture at the Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas. She earned her Masters’ in Architecture from NC State University College of Design where she was a teaching assistant for the sophomore level architectural drawing courses. Lorena now works for Jacobs (formerly known as Kling Stubbins). She believes that the fastest way to execute an idea is by drawing.
Architecture Model Building Workshop // January 31, 2015 / Instructor: Rob Allen
High-School Architecture Model Building Workshop
- Saturday, January 31, 2015
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Rob Allen
In this workshop, participants will learn about architectural model construction. With a focus on proper technique and safety, students will be surprised how quickly their skills develop using readily-available materials and simple tools. The workshop will open with a few exercises introducing students to model building technique, moving forward into developing a finished product – a scaled architectural model – and closing with tips for documenting the models through digital photography.
During the workshop, each student will be building a one-room “cabin”. Participants will be challenged to consider shelter in its simplest form: protection from the elements while maintaining daylight and views to the surrounding landscape. We will work together to understand concepts of form, structure and spatial design over the course of this workshop.
About the Instructor:
A native of Raleigh, Rob Allen received his Bachelor of Architecture from NC State University in 2005. Since 2002, Rob has worked for award-winning local firms Cannon Architects, Vernacular Studio and is currently an Architectural Designer with Gensler. He has served on numerous juries at NC State’s College of Design as well as at CAM Raleigh for the Spaces + Places Summer Studio. Both in and out of the office, he is an advocate for functional design, positive environmental impact and a good cup of coffee.
Digital Illustration Workshop // February 7, 2015 / Instructor: Emil Polyak
High-School Digital Illustration Workshop
- Saturday, February 7, 2015
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Emil Polyak
Digital illustration uses computer-based design tools to create and manipulate images. During this workshop we will use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to manipulate digital photography and text. This is a great workshop for anyone interested in studying art, design, and/or photography.
About the Instructor:
Emil Polyak is an Assistant Professor of Art and Design at NC State University. He has a Masters degree in Art and Design, and currently teaches animation and digital media with the College of Design.
Find Your Type: Graphic Design Workshop // February 21, 2015 / Instructor: Brandy Luce
High-School Graphic Design Workshop
- Saturday, February 21, 2015
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Brandy Luce
This workshop is an introduction to type and typography. We will explore type as both a functional and expressive tool for graphic design. This is a great workshop for anyone interested in graphic design, typography or visual communication. This is also a great skill-building opportunity for anyone interested in Graphic Design.
About the Instructor:
Brandy Luce is currently a master of graphic design student at North Carolina State University and a graduate teaching assistant. She graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications and Design. Prior to coming to NCSU, Brandy worked for SCORR Marketing as a graphic designer where she developed brand and corporate identity systems, trade show exhibits, and marketing materials. She is passionate about teaching the fundamental skills and principles of design.
Digital Photography Workshop // March 7, 2015 / Instructor: Ben Scott
High School Digital Photography Workshop
- Saturday, March 7, 2015
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Instructor: Ben Scott
This workshop will focus on digital photography techniques in portraitures. Students will be expanding their knowledge of digital cameras (provided) and of techniques used by professional photographers. This workshop is great for students looking to further explore digital photography or for anyone looking to document their portfolio pieces.
About the Instructor:
Ben Scott graduated with a Masters in Art+Design from NC State University in May 2014. His graduate research focused on the impact past works of art can have on photography and video. He used these mediums to create visual stories through the use of color, light, and layering. This style allows for modern fashion and editorial portraits. He is always looking for experimental opportunities to push the visual medium in creative ways.
Animation Workshop: Seconds in Paper // March 7, 2015 / Instructor: Ryan Grady
High School Animation Workshop: Seconds in Paper
- Saturday, March 7th, 2015
- 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. // $60
- Instructor: Ryan Grady
About the Instructor:
Ryan E. Grady is a visual artist and animator based in Raleigh, NC. The concepts of Ryan’s work focuses on the advantages and consequences of desire.Ryan has created concept art, animation, 3D models, and illustration for a variety of projects including the ASPECT project at NC State. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art at Appalachian State University and has her Master of Art + Design from NC State University.
Spaces and Places: An Introduction to Architecture // March 11, 2015 / Instructor: Marie Schacht
Middle School Spaces and Places Workshop : An Introduction to Architecture
- Wednesday, March 11th, 2015
- 4:00pm – 5:30pm // $35
- Instructor: Marie Schacht
In this workshop, students will gain a broad understanding of basic principles of Architecture through hands-on activities and team collaboration. Students will individually design a space and build a model that will become part of a larger city system. The workshop will explore ideas of building infrastructure, sustainability, and appearance.
About the Instructor:
Marie Schacht studied Architecture at the University of Virginia. Since graduating, she’s been using her design knowledge to help create impactful experiences, businesses, and places. She currently works in Raleigh at New Kind, a creative agency blending design thinking and open-source philosophy to offer a unique community-centric approach to marketing and communications. Before joining New Kind, Marie completed a fellowship with Design Corps, a non-profit working to use architecture as a tool for positive social change.
Digital Animation // April 11, 2015 / Instructor: Hal Meeks
High-School Animation Workshop
- Saturday, April 11th, 2015
- 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. // $60
- Instructor: Hal Meeks
This workshop will focus on digital animation. Students will work on a short digital animation. This workshop is great for anyone expanding their portfolio or who is interested in learning more about Animation. Please note that this workshop is different than the Animation workshop that we offered earlier in the year.
About the Instructor:
Hal Meeks has a Master’s in Art and Design from North Carolina State University, and currently teaches at NCSU. He has worked in the field of digital media for over 25 years. Hal has taught in many capacities with the Design lab, including teaching Animation for Design Camp for several summers.
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