by: Michelle Barnhart
This spring, the Prospectus welcomed Professor Matthew Watt as the faculty advisor for design.
A natural talent, Watt began his college career studying graphic design, but eventually switched his major after developing a strong interest in drawing. He has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in drawing from Eastern Michigan University as well as a Master of Fine Arts in painting from Savannah College of Art Design. Watt said that he generally considers himself a fine artist, but values design as, “A process for finding creative solutions to visual problems.” His artistic practices combine digital and analogue processes.
Watt’s work has been exhibited in several places across the U.S. While he was living in Georgia, some of his paintings were featured in an exhibit at Jacksonville International Airport in Florida. He drove down to see the exhibition and said it was one of his favorites.
Some of his work has also been featured in national publications such as Art in America. Additionally, Watt has curated several exhibitions, including a couple at Parkland’s very own Giertz Gallery. He also curated shows at Delta College Art Gallery in Michigan.
Outside of art and design, Watt loves music. He has played guitar since childhood and has had a couple of opportunities to study classical guitar. He is also interested in electronic music and sound design. He plans to incorporate sound production into his Motion Design class at Parkland this semester.
“Graphic designers need to possess skills in motion and broadcast design,” he said. “Designers need to be equipped to work with sound.”
Watt joined Parkland’s Fine and Applied Arts department in 2005 as a professor in the art and design program. He said that when it comes to teaching, you always have to keep expanding your knowledge because the world and the needs of students are constantly changing. He has been teaching at the college level for almost 20 years, but still finds that he learns more each semester.
“I enjoy being a college professor because I enjoyed being a student,” he said. “I value learning.”
Watt also said he loves teaching because he gets to help people realize their goals and improve their lives. His Parkland staff bio states, “My goal is to provide students with a rigorous and supportive environment where they can develop as skilled artists, possessing the self-confidence and critical awareness they need to engage the world in which they live.”
“I enjoy being a college professor because I enjoyed being a student”
After about a year at Parkland, Watt stepped into the role of Program Director for Graphic Design. He initially only held this position for three years but has since returned and is happy to be back in the role. He described graphic design as a “compelling discipline.”
Now that he has joined the Prospectus, Watt will be advising the design team by providing guidance on the layout of the paper and website. When asked what sparked his interest in this position, Watt said that he is looking forward to collaborating with people from all over campus. He said it can be easy for people to become sectioned off in their own programs or departments and that it is beneficial to branch out and experience other perspectives.
Lastly, Watt shared what he hopes to accomplish during his time with the Prospectus.
“I want to help the students who run the paper to craft something that they are proud of,” he said. He explains that designing the Prospectus is a good, real-world experience for graphic design students. “I want to make sure that the design students who work for the Prospectus have a positive experience.”
