The College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning at the University of Cincinnati opened its annual DAAPworks showcase to the public on May 4. The event featured galleries filled with nearly 450 graduating students’ work across 18 majors and included a final fashion show.
The exhibition highlights capstone projects that address real-world challenges such as building communal spaces and integrating sustainability into retail fashion. Organizers say the showcase transforms classrooms into curated exhibitions during commencement week.
This year marked Dean Stephanie Pilat’s first time hosting DAAPworks since taking on her role last summer. “Hosting my first DAAPworks as dean of DAAP is both an honor and a meaningful opportunity to witness the depth of creativity and critical thinking across our college,” said Pilat. “What makes this event so significant is not only the exceptional quality of the work, but the bold ways our students tackle complex, real-world challenges.”
Nicholas Namyar, a Master of Design graduate, presented his project ‘Brand the Band,’ which explored collaborative branding for emerging musicians by involving their audiences in design decisions. “DAAPworks has been really exciting,” said Namyar. “It’s a chance to share something I care about while being surrounded by so many creative people and ideas.” He explained his thesis: “My thesis explores a co-creative approach to designing visual brands for emerging musicians by collaborating with their audience. Artists are making music to be profitable and marketable to fans, so I wanted to have those fans help decide the brand.”
Namyar’s experience at Sony Music Entertainment influenced his project; he will return this summer to work with their design team in New York City.
Industry leaders from organizations including Charley Harper Art Studio, Cincinnati Opera, and ArtWorks presented special awards recognizing creativity and innovation at an April 28 ceremony. Nearly 50 awards were distributed for excellence in research, design, and innovation across disciplines such as city planning and brand design. The university’s own 1819 Innovation Hub recognized five student projects developed in its Makerspace.
