Events
Machine Embroidery Workshops! (Copy)
What’s the Stitch?
Join us for hands-on machine embroidery workshops in the Sewing Lab, happening Fridays throughout the term. Learn the basics, explore creative techniques, and bring your designs to life with stitched detail.
Our first workshop begins next Friday, May 8th in FHM 243 on the 2nd floor!
All skill levels welcome!
COMMA Hotline!
COMMA HOTLINE—PIZZA PARTY!
Our Next Hotline meeting! This Thursday May 7th at 12:40 pm in AB 320
Join us for pizza, snacks, and good company!
+bipoc only+
PRIVATE LABEL: A Thesis Exhibition by Julia Sax
PRIVATE LABEL: Curating identity through the medium of camp
Join us in the 1st Floor Gallery for Private Label, a thesis exhibition by Julia Sax, on view April 30 through May 8.
Through an installation that reimagines domestic space and media consumption, Private Label explores queer expression, identity formation, and Camp as both aesthetic and language.
Blending humor, artifice, and cultural critique, the work considers how identity is constructed, performed, and packaged.
For more work from the project and designer, visit privatelabel.tm and ju1ia.makes
Calling all Artists, Art Lovers, Students & Faculty in Art History, Art Practice, & Graphic Design!
Come help us make a bunch of weird, beautiful, meaningful stuff that’s going to get run over by a steamroller this fall.
(We’re serious.)
We’re kicking off a collaborative art-making event to create drawings, textures, and layered materials that will become part of a giant steamroller print event in our new building. Your marks = part of the final prints.
No pressure, no experience needed. Just show up.
Not a “maker”? Perfect. Bring scraps, photos, printed things, notes, ephemera...anything you’re into, and we’ll fold it into the mix.
What’s happening:
• Drawing
• Collaging
• Experimenting
• Hanging out
• Snacks + good energy
What happens to the work:
Everything made will be transformed into large-scale carved prints and printed using a literal steamroller (more on that later )
Details:
5:30–7:30
Shattuck Annex
Free + open to all (bring a friend!)
Let’s say goodbye to the old building by making something big, messy, and unforgettable together.
Marks Portland: Folio Nights
“Folio Nights” invites emerging creatives to connect directly with the Marks team through 1:1 portfolio reviews across Experiential, Graphic, Technical, 3D, and Environmental Design. The evening will also include talks and casual conversations with industry professionals.
Not ready to present work? No problem. A happy hour will run throughout the event, making space to meet people across client services, project management, and more—no portfolio required.
Location: 120 SE Clay St, Suite 102, Portland, OR
Date: Thursday, April 30
Time: 5PM
Space is limited— so save your spot now!
RSVP: https://forms.gle/hB9JFVnEQifKgEdD7
Portfolio Submission: https://forms.gle/ShENbhuv66trH4VJ7
Friends of Figma!
If you’ve been wondering how to grow your skills and advance your design career, this talk is for you. Thai Dang will share his strategies, observations, and personal stories. Thai currently works as a Lead UX Designer at Levi Strauss and has had an illustrious 20+ year career across institutions like Amazon, eBay, Intuit, and Taco Bell.
More information on FoF event page
Hey PSUGD Design Club! Let's go to Industry!
Okay… that went fast. The field trip is officially full (!!)
But don’t disappear on us—join the waitlist.
INDUSTRY is a Portland, Oregon-based creative brand consultancy and design collective that focuses on strategy, product design, and brand storytelling. They help companies create brand meaning through design research, interaction design, and marketing, working with major brands.
Join the Waitlist →
More About INDUSTRY →
This field trip is for PSUGD students only.
Please use your PDX email to register for this event.
Promo by Emily Ramos
Show & Tell lecture series: Nishat Akhtar
• SHOW & TELL
•
LECTURE • SERIES •
• SHOW & TELL • LECTURE • SERIES •
Join us live to kickoff our final Show & Tell lecture series in the old Art Building
Thursday, April 23 at noon Pacific in AB 320 for a talk from Nishat Akhtar, Chief Creative Officer at INSTRUMENT!
Nishat Akhtar is a designer, artist, and creative leader. As Chief Creative Officer at Instrument, she helps guide the studio’s creative vision, shaping both the work of today and how it continues to evolve for the future. Her clients and collaborators have included Nike, Google, Amazon, Oura, and Adobe, alongside a personal art and illustration practice she continues to nurture. Through talks and workshops, Nishat shares a belief that creativity belongs to everyone, and that play is where it all begins.
Can't make it in person to AB 320?
Tune in to psu.gd/twitch to watch online!
What is Show & Tell anyway? It’s PSU Graphic Design’s long-time online lunchtime lecture series where working design professionals stop by to blow our minds with wisdom! Our lectures are hosted by the students of DES 125 Show & Tell!
All talks are free and open to the public!
You can learn more about the series at psu.gd/showandtell!
Check it out!
Promo by Amon Watson (@comishly)
COMMA Hotline
Come join us for Comma Hotline THIS THURSDAY, April 16 in AB 320! '
This hotline meeting will be super chill, so just bring yourself and a friend if you can!
What’s COMMA?
COMMA is a group organized by & for BIPOC in the graphic design program here at PSU. We’re a space for BIPOC students to create connections, share experiences, learn, and have fun!
Find out more about us @psugd_comma!
Pizza and snacks will be provided.
Promo by @dio.xide and @emanuelrave_
OVLA Presents Contracts for Creatives!
Virtual Workshop
Contracts for Creatives
April 16, 2026 • 12:00-1:30pm PDT
This workshop walks creators through best practices in common business contracts. We will be taking a concise look at the most common clauses in the most important documents. This presentation will cover everything from creative licensing to commercial tenancies. Our goal is to give participants tangible tools and informed context for entering agreements.
Register here! Free!
A&D Social Mixer
Come out to our social event! Come to FMH 219 on April 14 to meet other A&D majors, talk about cool classes you're taking, ask faculty questions, make new friends, and eat pizza!
April 14, 12:30pm
FMH 219
THESIIS COLLECTIVE: A collaborative showcase from students of DES 471
Exhibition on view through Friday 04/17 in the MK Gallery, 2000 SW 5th Ave
This exhibit features final gallery works from PSUGD seniors Sandra Manners, Kate Kolakowski, Tina Vuong, Olivia Van, and Cordelia Townsend—exploring a diverse range of subjects.
See it now—while these future stars are still exhibiting for free ✨
Don’t miss your chance to say you saw them first!
Google Portfolio Review Opportunity
This March, Creative Lives in Progress is hosting an online Portfolio Review in collaboration with Google’s Creative Fellowship—a paid, six-month program for emerging creatives. 👀
This is a great opportunity for to connect with industry professionals and gain insight into creative careers at Google.
Event is online
Thursday, March 12, 2025
10am–1pm PT | 1pm–4pm ET
Apply by: Sunday, February 22, 2026 (11:59pm)What You’ll Get
One-on-one portfolio feedback
Career insight from Google creatives
Info on the Creative Fellowship
Networking with fellow emerging designersWho Should Apply
Open to US-based students and early-career creatives (0–5 years experience) in design, motion, writing, tech, and filmmaking. Applicants must be 18+ and eligible to work in the US.
Spots are limited—apply early!
Apply here: Google Portfolio Review
Save the Date! Kemeny Lecture Presents: Bráulio Amado!
Join us for a lecture with Bráulio Amado, a designer celebrated for his vibrant, expressive work that blends drawing, typography, and cultural reference into images that feel alive and immediate. Tickets HERE!
The lecture will be followed by a conversation with Bráulio, Nishat Akhtar (Instrument), and Bijan Berahimi (FISK).
Bráulio Amado is a graphic designer and illustrator from Portugal, currently based in New York City. Known for his vibrant, kinetic work, his drawings have appeared in The New York Times, Businessweek, WIRED, and more, and he has collaborated with artists including Frank Ocean, André 3000, Róisín Murphy, and Robyn.
Doors at 6 pm
Talk starts at 6:30 pm
Free and Open to All
Machine Embroidery Workshops!
What’s the Stitch?
Join us for hands-on machine embroidery workshops in the Sewing Lab, happening Fridays throughout the term. Learn the basics, explore creative techniques, and bring your designs to life with stitched detail.
Our first workshop begins next Friday, February 13 in FHM 243 on the 2nd floor!
All skill levels welcome!
This Friday! February 13! Design Club!
Join Design Club for a two-for-one field trip to Nemo and Plink Graphics on Friday, February 13! This special studio visit is one you won’t want to miss.
Nemo is a design agency specializing in brand strategy, concept development, product campaigns, creative design, content, and brand extensions. For nearly 25 years, they’ve worked primarily within the outdoor, active, and lifestyle spaces.
Plink Graphics is the studio of freelance designers Buck Chapman and Finn Donnelly.
We’ve been invited to tour their new space and get a behind-the-scenes look at where their collaborative and independent projects come to life.
This field trip is open to all PSUGD students and alumni. Spots are limited and fill quickly—sign up ASAP here
See you there!
Show & Tell: Walker Noble, Founder & Creative Director of Walker Noble Studios
Are you just having lunch, but wish you were having a side of DESIGN KNOWLEDGE with it??? Why not bring some food and chow down right at the Show & Tell Design Lecture Series!
Join us live Thursday, February 12 at noon Pacific in AB 320 for a talk from Founder & Creative Director of Walker Noble Studios, Walker Noble!
Walker Noble Studios is a multidisciplinary art and design studio founded in 2015 by artist and creative director Walker Noble. The studio is built on a simple belief that art should be accessible, meaningful, and deeply connected to everyday life. Drawing inspiration from architecture, travel, nature, family, and cultural history, the work blends fine art sensibility with commercial precision.
Known for its warm, timeless aesthetic, Walker Noble Studios creates artwork, home decor, and licensed collections that live comfortably in both design forward homes and large scale retail environments. The studio has collaborated with globally recognized brands including West Elm, Pottery Barn, Patagonia, Yeti, Misen, and others, with work featured in thousands of homes around the world.
Beyond product creation, the studio operates at the intersection of art, storytelling, and entrepreneurship, partnering with brands, retailers, and institutions to build thoughtful, lasting creative projects. Rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and community, Walker Noble Studios continues to expand its vision while staying grounded in the belief that creativity is a powerful tool for connection, legacy, and joy.
Can't make it in person to AB 320? Tune in to psu.gd/twitch to watch online!
What is Show & Tell anyway? It’s PSU Graphic Design’s long-time online lunchtime lecture series where working design professionals stop by to blow our minds with wisdom! Our lectures are hosted by the students of DES 125 Show & Tell! All talks are free and open to the public!
You can learn more about the series and see the whole linup at psu.gd/showandtell! Check it out!
Promo by Amity Cummings
🧵 Sashiko Workshop | Feb 11
The Student Sustainability Center is hosting a hands-on Sashiko mending workshop with Sew Susty and Mai Ide on February 11. Learn the basics of this traditional Japanese embroidery practice while exploring sustainability, repair, and slow fashion through making. Open to PSU students and faculty — no experience required— & FREE!
Comma: Valentine’s Day Edition!
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the people who matter most—Comma!
Our next Hotline meeting is Valentine’s-themed.
Come by and create with us, get exclusive Comma Valentine’s cards, and exchange valentines with classmates like the good old days—plus enjoy some classic holiday candy.
Meet us in AB320 at 12:40 on February the 10th!
See you there!
Design Club Presents
This club meeting will be about branding and community; including friendly competitions, community building exercises and of course FREE FOOD. So stick around after Mike Anderson's Show & Tell for lots of laughs & fun!
Residual Moments Exhibition
The exhibition is on display at the MK Gallery until February 5th, 2026
Explore Your Creative Future at Creative Industry Day!
Explore Your Creative Future at Creative Industry Day!
Date: Tuesday, February 3rd
Time: 11:30am-2pm
Location: SMSU 327, 8, 9
As part of Winter Career Week, swing by Creative Industry Day to meet employers from across the creative world including marketing and advertising agencies, media and entertainment companies, museums and arts organizations, digital content studios, creative consultancies, in-house design and communications teams, film and more.
Whether you’re studying graphic design, film, theater, marketing, communications, psychology, engineering, or any major that taps into creativity, this is your chance to learn how your skills fit into a wide, dynamic industry. Discover job and internship pathways, hear what employers look for in creative talent, and build connections that can spark your next step. Stop by anytime and bring a friend!
Food will be provided. Space is limited, register today! -
https://portlandstate.joinhandshake.com/events/1871600/share_preview
You can check out all Winter Career Week events here!
Residual Moments Exhibition
The exhibition is on display at the MK Gallery until February 5th, 2026
Residual Moments Exhibition
The exhibition is on display at the MK Gallery until February 5th, 2026
Residual Moments Exhibition
The exhibition is on display at the MK Gallery until February 5th, 2026
Residual Moments Exhibition
The exhibition is on display at the MK Gallery until February 5th, 2026
Good Market!
Good Market is the official annual pop-up shop of PSUGD, featuring one-of-a-kind goods from talented students and alumni. From art prints to jewelry, zines, and more—this is your chance to buy directly from the creators. Plus, 100% of the sales go straight to the sellers!
PSUGD FRESH Senior Portfolio Show!
Still waiting to find the graphic designer for you? Come on down to Kamp Grizzly December 4th, 5-8 PM and let Fresh take care of the rest!
RSVP
Fresh
PSUGD’s senior design showcase
December 4, 5-8 PM
Kamp Grizzly
2316 NE Oregon St # 109
Design Club Presents: Andres Silva Bello
Design Club Presents: Andres Silva Bello from R/GA!
Are you interested in branding, typography, or design leadership? Join us for Design Club's Lunch and Learn while and hang out and learn from Andres Silva Bello!
This workshop explores the evolving role of motion within contemporary brand design. As technology reshapes how we experience visual communication, motion has become an essential tool for giving brands a sense of life, rhythm, and personality. Through a mix of discussion, real world examples, and hands on exploration, you will learn how to translate static design principles into dynamic brand behaviors!
Andres Silva Bello is an Ecuadorian graphic designer with a decade in the design and tech scene. He majored in Typography Design at the University of Buenos Aires and loves bringing a strong visual and typographic focus to every project. For the past six years, he’s been leading visual projects for R/GA USA (mostly on the Nike team), where he works as Design Director. Before that, he spent four years shaping creative work in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Come hang out Monday, November 17th from 12:00 to 1:30 in room AB250! :)
June 5th! PSUGD Fresh Senior Portfolio Show
WELCOME TO THE SHOW!
You're formally invited to the Portland State Graphic Design Portfolio Show, FRESH: Best in Show, on June 5th, 2025! RSVP HERE!
The dog days are over, and we're celebrating our scrappy, creative bunch of 60 senior graphic design students as they enter the next chapter of their creative journeys—and you won't want to miss it!
Thanks to our amazing friends at Thesis, we are hosting the show in their beautiful space.
✏️ Explore a wide range of student work
💙 Connect with the designers
🎾 Enjoy tasty snacks and good vibes
This event will have a lot of fun (and a bit of pomp and circumstance)! Whether you're industry, family, friends, or just design-curious, we'd love to see you there.