April 30, 2026

Ferris State’s Kendall College of Art and Design celebrating 2026 Annual Student Exhibition; over 80 graduates transform gallery space into ‘canvas for curiosity’

There's still time to visit the 2026 Annual Student Exhibition at Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design, which is put on each year to spotlight the creative talents of graduating seniors at the downtown Grand Rapids campus.

The exhibition returned to the KCAD campus after a brief visit to DeVos Place last year, as over 85 students are participating in this year’s event.

The art pieces are spread between both the KCAD main campus at 17 Fountain Street and the KCAD Historic Place building at 17 Pearl Street. Spectators can visit the exhibition any time during normal building hours between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Saturday, May 9.

KCAD's Annual Student Exhibition sees emerging artists transform gallery spaces into a canvas for their curiosity, their craft and their imagination, showcasing work from across disciplines. It’s an opportunity to experience the ideas, experimentation, and creative growth KCAD students are exploring right now.

“It's also an opportunity to find your next hire, discover new talent, or add a new piece to your collection,” said Michele Bosak, Exhibitions Director for KCAD.

Emerging artists and designers from all programs will present a diverse showcase of their best creative work, including Collaborative Design, Digital Art and Design, Fashion Studies, Graphic Design, Illustration, Interior Design, Life Sciences and Pre-Medical Illustration, Photography, Product Design, and Studio Arts.

Bosak also noted that although the event is set up for seniors preparing for graduation, the event doesn’t mean it’s the end of their learning journey.

“The Annual Student Exhibition represents the culmination of each student’s academic journey at KCAD, bringing together work developed through years of study, critique, and refinement. What is on view is not simply the end of an academic experience, but the beginning of a professional one,” she said. “These projects demonstrate not only technical skill, but the ability to think critically, communicate ideas, and engage audiences. As students move into professional practice, the exhibition offers a first look at the voices, perspectives, and approaches they will carry forward into the field.”

The closing reception for KCAD’s Annual Student Exhibition is set for Thursday, May 7.