Eastern Student Emily Rodrigue of Ashford Participates in 20th Annual Windham Hospital Fundraiser

2015 Dec 3

Art students at Eastern Connecticut State University are applying their classroom learning in the fall 2015 Eastern Design Group. Under the supervision of Professor Terry Lennox, students form an ad agency to produce professional design products for real-world clients. During this course, students demonstrate the ability to engage in independent projects, apply critical thinking skills, orally communicate ideas and reflect on their work.

The Eastern Design Group collaborated with Windham Hospital to design hat sculptures for this year's Auxiliary to Windham Hospital's 20th Annual Autumn Gala Fundraiser. The fundraiser was held on Nov. 21 at the Marriott in downtown Hartford.

Emily Rodrigue '16 of Ashford completed a project for the 20th annual Windham Hospital fundraiser. Rodrigue's major is Visual Arts.

The artwork was designed, printed and assembled as large 3-D printed sculptures that were suspended and able to swivel for the fundraiser's theme, "Hats Off."

"This experience gave us the opportunity to work together, while also learning to adapt to changing and evolving deadlines," said Rodrique. "This real world application allowed us to develop our own personal style while working toward a cohesive collection of designs."

The hospital honored the Johnson Family Foundation as Philanthropist of the year, Bernice Wilson as Caregiver of the Year and Mark Fisherkeller as Physician of the Year. "This was a learning experience for everyone. It was challenging but the students had a lot of fun," said Lennox. Students commented that the project was inspirational and they enjoyed creating their extraordinary pieces of art.

Throughout the event each table had a different "hat" theme. "One table was the 'Cat in the Hat,' another was an antique Dutch hat," said Lennox. "There were tiny little shoes and other incredible accessories." The event focused on detail, which was very rewarding. "I had a wonderful time at the event. I was glad I got to fill the shoes of retired Professor June Bisantz," said Lennox. "I couldn't be more proud of my students and their amazing work. The final products were beautiful."