Capilano University’s IDEA (Illustration/Design: Elements and Applications) program is a highly regarded 3-year graphic design and illustration program that prepares students for successful careers in the visual communications industry.

Students in the program are continuing a tradition of “education through experience” via an art and design based fundraising initiative entitled Reflections Vancouver 2011, and producing some wonderful work in the process. Their goal is to gain real-world business and production experience while raising funds for their grad show in April 2011. Funds raised also support a cultural tour of New York City in the third year of the program to further the students’ artistic development.

Reflections Vancouver 2011 is founded on a collection of 30 student paintings and works of art depicting familiar local scenes and landscapes, and extends through a popular calendar designed and produced entirely by the students, as well as a series of greeting cards featuring the artworks. As a team, the students manage the entire initiative, from design and production through marketing and sales.

“Skills acquired in such real-life initiatives as the Reflections Vancouver project can make a significant difference to our students once they’ve graduated,” says Jennifer Moore, Dean of Fine and Applied Arts at Capilano University. “It’s a terrific learning experience that will provide them with an impressive portfolio that is sure to make a strong impact upon prospective employers.”

Following a successful launch at the Ferry Building Gallery in West Vancouver this spring, the students have been organizing and producing shows around the Lower Mainland, including the recently-concluded Harmony Arts Festival. Upcoming events include the Streets and Scenes show at the Omega Gallery, Christmas at Hycroft, and a show at the Silk Purse Gallery from November 30 to December 1.

In addition to the gallery shows, the students organize ongoing sales of their calendars and cards at craft fairs and farmers’ markets all over the Lower Mainland. This is a perfect way for the students to share their passion and talent with a broader audience, and adds a great deal to their understanding of the realities of sales and marketing.

For more information about the program and a full listing of upcoming shows and craft fairs, visit

www.capreflections.com
www.facebook.com/CapReflections
or follow them on twitter: @CapReflections