“Modulations,” an exhibit dedicated to the talented students of the BFA programs was unveiled on April 20, 2024, with a positive opening reception. The artists for most of the works were there to explain their works to all who wished to know, of which there were many. It was filled to the brim, with a wide variety of artworks, each distinct from the last in its composition and its format. It ranged from animation, graphic design, websites, and magazines for you to browse at your convenience. Each work depicted a different world that also showcased their exceptional skill in their craft. While not all can be talked about here, the spotlight can at the very least be given to the most notable artists. Various professionals in the field were brought in to examine what was on display and give their commentary and criticism. 

Let’s start with Weiling Pan’s “Jenney Journey,” with cutouts creating such amazing depth, that you cannot help but reach out! Each piece depicts the resurfacing memory of the amnesiac robot “Onnet,” as well as the new experiences he is going through. Each piece has such a sense of depth that these memories feel almost real, giving us a glimpse into how it is to reconnect with these memories. “Onnet” is a character that I had created back when I was in Middle school, and this was based on the situation I was in,” says Weiling “he meets friends who accompany him on his journey, and now, I wanted to create a new beginning for him”

Deisy Ulloa’s “FORYOU” aims to create a fictional company that celebrates a person’s looks, rather than make them feel like they ought to correct them. “I grew up with body issues, as many people do, and one thing I noticed with beauty brands is the way they advertised their products,” says Deisy. “They would say, ‘your wrinkles are bad, acne is bad, your hair is dry, your skin is dry’ and that is how it is all marketed.” Ms. Ulloa’s intention with her work was to combat this kind of marketing, instead aiming to uplift the looks a person naturally holds. This friendly, humane marketing is seldom seen in the real world, so to see such advertising can be a real tearjerker. Along with the eye-catching posters that are up, there was an in-depth online store on display, packed with even more chill graphic design. The website could be browsed to learn about this fictional company and add items to the cart. Sadly, however, you cannot buy any of the items. 

If you are up for some lighthearted fun though, there’s Carlos Jimenez’s thesis film “Mascotas.” It is a remarkably simple animation, but still expresses its character’s emotions and helps us connect with him. These expressed emotions are also integral to the film as there is no voice acting whatsoever, what you see is what you get. “I’ve always been a fan of silent films because you can tell a story without dialogue,” says Carlos Jimenez. “A lot of animation is telling the story through your eyes without telling through your ears.” The stars of the short film are Lola the cat, and Debi the dog, and a run-of-the-mill crisis for any college student. The locals also have a charm to them, adding to the charming feel of the whole film. The animation is available on YouTube now. 

Another notable artwork was Mildred Roman’s “Goya Series,” whose paintings have meaning through their minimalistic showcase. Her piece is covered entirely in blue, with only a piece of what lies underneath that is shown in the middle. It is almost unrecognizable for the small amount of detail it gives, only making sense to those who are familiar with the source material. “My piece is about the Caribbean Island of Puerto Rico,” says Mildred Roman, “and my relationship of being born in the U.S., but still being Puerto Rican, and what that means to me.” She used images of various popular spices and products that are well known to a specific demographic, and this builds a relationship between the two cultures, with those who inherit the Puerto Rican culture, but still have been born in the U.S.  

Of course, nothing is more important to the culture than music, and you can browse the upbringings of music in Tatiana Timones’s “B-Side.” Primarily a magazine issue that focuses on music and environmentalism, it aims to bring attention to underrepresented topics within these scenes. It is named “B-Side” to reference that very same goal, as the B-Side of vinyl is often not explored. The magazine features many eye-catching visuals, as well as many essays that can catch the interest of any music fan. 

The Modulations exhibit was a fantastic showcase and a magnificent farewell to those who dedicated their time to their craft here at NJCU. The many works there are all so different and unique, it was a shame that not all could be talked about. Nevertheless, many of these students will continue to perfect their craft one way or the other.