On Friday, September 25, the West Michigan Graphic Design Archives hosted two events showcasing the Continuum exhibit at the Zhang Legacy Collections Center. The theme was inspired by Kalamazoo Art Hop, which held earlier events to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary “through the spirit of innovation, imagination, and artistic expression that has defined the nation since its founding.”

In her curator’s statement, designer Katty Neill said, ‘Through familiar American imagery—from blue jeans and cowboy boots to stars, stripes, and quilt-square patterns—the works in this collection explore how visual symbols create connection, belonging, and shared memory. At the same time, these symbols carry different meanings across communities, generations, and lived experiences, reminding us that the American experience is not singular.”

Students and faculty from four graphic design programs—Calvin University, Ferris State University, Grand Valley State University, and Western Michigan University—heard from designers and WMGDA founders Linda Powell and Barbara Loveland, as well as Marlene Capotosto, graphic production professional, about the origins and creative process for pieces in the exhibit. Katty provided background on the exhibit curation process and key pieces on display for the next several months. Attendees were then guided on a tour of the actual physical archives by Zhang curators Lynn Houghton and John Winchell.

“We were pleased to welcome these students to the archives,” Linda said, “and especially pleased to introduce them to each other and overhear their conversations about design.”

Later in the evening, design and communications professionals had the same opportunity to view the exhibit, examine individual projects, and talk with designers involved about processes both creative and technical. 

“We’re always happy to both see long-time friends and to introduce new people to the archives,” said Sharon Oleniczak, designer and WMGDA board member. “The community surrounding the archives is what assures us we can continue to preserve good work and make it available for education and inspiration.”

Items from the Continuum exhibit are on display for the next few months in the foyer to the Zhang facility, and additional items can be seen as part of scheduled visits to the archives.