On Thursday (April 6), Studio 165+ will celebrate its sixth anniversary by hosting its first-ever show – “Community, Collaborations, & Celebrations: Six Years of Studio 165+.”

The student-led design studio, started in the School of Art, will showcase collaborations with the community from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Muncie Makes Lab, 628 S. Walnut St.  The event is free and open to the public.

We caught up with Shantanu Suman, lead instructor at the studio. Shantanu is a Graphic Designer and Art Director from India who currently works as an Assistant professor of Art (Visual Communication) at Ball State.

How does it feel to be celebrating 6 years of the Studio?

“Every semester, part of the Studio is formed of a group of students joining it for the first time. So, even though we have been around for more than six years, we have the same passion and dedication as a newcomer. Over the years, we have been extremely busy with community-based projects, and we couldn’t be more thankful for that. But we have rarely taken the time to celebrate some of our successful projects and recognitions. So, this show feels like a much-deserved time to pause and reflect on the partnerships and collaborations that have brought us here.”

What can people expect at this event (displays, presentations, etc.)?

“By the end of Spring 2023, Studio 165+ would have worked on nearly a hundred projects. These projects include international, national, regional, and local projects. But we will only display a selection of our local projects during this show. In addition, you can expect to see the Studio 165+ timeline, selected pieces of our design work, case studies, concept development process, merchandise, student photographs, and much more.”

How many students have worked with the Studio over the past 6 years?

“Ninety-three students have worked with Studio 165+ from Spring 2017 until Spring 2023. Some students have been with Studio for just one semester, whereas others have continued for two or three semesters.”

What have been some of the most memorable projects for you?

“In no particular order, here’s a list of some of our memorable local projects: Muncie’s Bridge Dinner identity; PlySpace branding; a children’s book + resource guide for Department of Child Services (DCS) and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA); Mayor’s Arts Awards identity, and our ongoing collaboration with Heather Williams from Muncie Neighborhoods. Through this ongoing multi-year collaborative project, we have created identity designs for 14 neighborhoods in Muncie.”