September 19, 2025
Ferris State showcases student talent on West Michigan billboards as region celebrates creativity during ArtPrize
Ferris State University is putting student creativity in the spotlight with a new citywide billboard campaign that features original artwork and designs by students from its Kendall College of Art and Design and other colleges across the university.
Launched to coincide with ArtPrize — West Michigan’s annual celebration of creativity and the arts — the campaign titled "Make it Here," highlights the diverse talent and innovative spirit of Ferris students through 20 billboards displayed throughout Grand Rapids.
A longstanding pillar of the city’s art and design scene, KCAD has been part of the Grand Rapids community for nearly a century. As Ferris State University's art and design college, KCAD prepares students for impactful careers in design, the visual arts, and art history.
The selected student work spans a range of disciplines, from fine art to technical design —even welding — demonstrating the breadth of creative opportunities at Ferris State.
Erin Russel, a junior in KCAD’s Illustration program, was chosen for a billboard featuring a bold, artistic interpretation of Ferris State’s beloved mascot, Brutus.
“Last semester, I was designing mock billboards for class, and now I have one of my own. It feels amazing,” Russel said. “KCAD has changed me. The people I’ve met, the community I’ve built, the connections I’ve made—they’re impacting me and helping me become better than I am today.”
The campaign extends beyond KCAD to include students from Ferris State’s main campus in Big Rapids. Austin Nesbitt, a senior in the Product Design Engineering Technology program, was selected for a mixed-media piece that blends photography and illustration, showcasing his multidisciplinary interests.
“My program is more on the technical side, but it’s cool that Ferris State gives us opportunities to express ourselves,” Nesbitt said. “All of the friends I’ve made, we’re all very creative in our own ways, and being able to meet new people in Big Rapids and Grand Rapids has helped me find a whole new environment after coming here from a small town.”
ArtPrize 2025 is presented in partnership with the City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., and Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design. In addition to viewing the art entries and voting for their favorites, visitors can enjoy a wide range of special events, including a Mardi Gras-themed parade, fireworks, artist workshops, concerts, live performances, interactive exhibits, and more.
Most ArtPrize entries will be on view starting Thursday, September 18, with the official kickoff party taking place Friday, September 19 at 6:30 p.m. in Rosa Parks Circle.
For more information, visit artprize.org.