May 24–June 15, 2025
Seattle 98195
United States
The 2025 University of Washington MFA + MDes Thesis Exhibition features the cumulative thesis work of graduates receiving Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in New Genres, Painting + Drawing, and 3D4M: ceramics + glass + sculpture, and Master of Design (MDes) from the University of Washington School of Art + Art History + Design.
The two-year studio-based MFA program prioritizes a rigorous studio practice, engages students in art historical dialogue and contemporary discourse, and provides them with opportunities to teach art classes to undergraduates.
The two-year MDes program engages with design through practice-based creative research. Students work closely with Design faculty to develop individualized research agendas in Industrial Design, Interaction Design, and Visual Communication Design.
During the second year of their program, MFA and MDes students work closely with a thesis chair and committee to develop a body of work while simultaneously shaping their written thesis. Students emerge with a vision and direction for their work and discipline, which is embodied in the concepts and pieces they have chosen to present.
Lisa Bambach
Bonny Barker
Ian Brownlee
Maryam Dehbozorgi
Jordan Horton
Jade Knox
Kyler Pahang
ralph salazar
Yihan Shi
The 2025 MFA + MDes Thesis Exhibition was organized by Trevor Goosen and Jackson Irvine from the Henry Art Gallery. Groosen and Irvine conducted studio visits and worked closely with the students to facilitate their projects and prepare them for exhibition at the museum.
A digital publication was produced in conjunction with the exhibition to highlight the students’ artistic endeavors and the Henry’s commitment to this exciting and important step in the students' development as practicing artists and designers.
About the School
The School of Art + Art History + Design is the center for creative innovation and study at the University of Washington, one of the world‘s leading public research institutions. Students engage in an interdisciplinary, collaborative exploration of the creative process, visual history, and socially responsible design. Our classrooms and studios encourage experimentation, innovative thinking, critical dialogue, and research. Students’ creative and academic work is recognized through scholarships, awards, exhibitions, and public presentations. To learn more, visit our website.
