End of the world

Mayan-themed fundraiser benefits New Design School

Supporters of the New Design School in Fayetteville met at BHK Kafe on Dec.

6 to prepare for the end of the world - all in good fun, assured board member Eric Huber.

The themed party played off the much-publicized end of the Mayan calendar forecast for Dec. 21. Some believe it signals the end of the world.

The event was a fundraiser for the school, a nonprofit institution offering hands-on technology and design education. Proceeds will go toward scholarships for students in the two-year certificate program, said Sonia Gutierrez, director of the school.

No entry fee was charged. Instead, patrons were encouraged to buy student-generated designs and other items such as Mayan shortbread cookies and holiday cards.

David Lewis, chef and owner of the cafe, prepared a buffet inspired by the flavors of Mexico, he said.

Dishes such as amaranth and chilies, pumpkin chipotle and corn and black beans showcased the staples of the cuisine. Desserts included Mexican chocolate cake and tres leches cake.

The cafe was crowded with friends of the design school and passers-by attending First Thursday on the downtown Fayetteville square. They sampled the food and sipped spiced sangria at tables decorated with gourds, chilies, dried beans and maize.

Harpist Beth Stockdell and duo Spare Change provided live music. A row of cutout cardboard Mayans marched along the wall.

Each sported a T-shirt designed by students or instructors. The designs featured the Mayan end-of-the world theme.

First-year student James Rector said he modeled his design on the comic book style of pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. His T-shirt featured a torso with fanny pack and the words “It’s the end of the world! Grab your fanny!”

Rector said he enrolled in the school as a way to turn his talent for drawing into a salable skill. Two classes in and he knows: “This is something I really want to do for the rest of my life.”

The school offers a different learning environment than he experienced in previous classes at the University of Arkansas, Rector said. The small class size means instructors have more time to devote to individual students. The hands-on approach immerses them in real-world projects.

Students partner with area nonprofits to develop their skills, a win-win for both parties, Gutierrez said.

“It really helps students get the sense, right off the bat, how does this whole process work.”

The school, whichopened in 2006, helps students develop the design, technology and business skills needed to launch a freelance career, she said.

Instructors work to match students with prospective clients and employers.

Students’ design work will be available online until Dec. 31. Merchandise includes T-shirts, tote bags, coasters and hoodies. A limited supply of items is available at BHK Kafe.

Proceeds after costs willbe applied directly to the designer’s tuition, Gutierrez said.

AT A GLANCE

New Design School What it is: A nonprofit institution for design and technology education How it works: The school offers two options for continuing education. A two-year certificate program prepares students to work in the graphic arts field.

Specialized workshops provide training in skills such as InDesign, web design and digital photo.

Licensed by: The state board of private career education. The school is the only certificate program for graphic design in Arkansas.

Future plans: To become an accredited school of design offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as the certificate program.

Information: 442-1443 or newdesignschool.org

Northwest Profile, Pages 44 on 12/16/2012

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