Alumni Stories

UAF CLA graduates Kyle Augustines and Marina Gonzalez take a photo together at the start of the 2024 Spring Commencement Ceremony at the Carlson Center, 5/4/24. (UAF photo by Leif Van Cise)
Our alumni stories are a testament to the incredible talent, dedication, and success of our graduates. These stories not only inspire our current and prospective students but also showcase the remarkable achievements of our alumni. We take immense pride in celebrating their journeys and contributions to the world of music. Enjoy exploring these uplifting narratives and join us in honoring the vibrant legacy of the UAF Art Department!

 

Alumni Spotlight

Ryota Kajita. Photo courtesy of the artist

Ryota Kajita, 2014, MFA in Photography

Ryota Kaji Kajita, a Japanese-born photographer with an MFA from UAF, captures Alaska's beauty through medium format film, exploring remote villages and natural landscapes during his travels.

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Sara Hensel. Courtesy of the artist

Sara Hensel, 2018, BFA in Ceramics

Sara Hensel, a Portland-based potter with a BFA in ceramics, creates community-inspired work centered on generosity and sharing. She teaches ceramics and promotes inclusivity in the art community.

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Xochiyollotl Carrow Harbison, courtesy of the artist

Xochiyollotl Harbison, 2022, MFA in Ceramics

Xochiyollotl Carrow Harbison, an Alaska native and MFA graduate, creates ceramics addressing her experiences as a plus-size queer woman and plans to establish her own studio.

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Nurturing the heart of Fairbanks’ visual culture

UAF Art alumni frequently play a significant role in the Fairbanks art scene and beyond, contributing their creative expertise in various artistic endeavors. Their ongoing involvement ensures that the local arts community remains dynamic and vibrant.

Graduates of the UAF Art Department have gone on to achieve impressive milestones, including national and international exhibitions, leadership roles in galleries and museums, and contributions to prominent arts organizations. These accomplishments highlight the strong foundation and diverse career paths nurtured at UAF​.

Olena Ellis. UAF Photo by JR Ancheta The BFA program encouraged me to grow in ways I never thought were possible. What most people don't know about the BFA program is that it also assists students with teaching, organization, promotion, writing, and that all students take all the prerequisites of all other students... I work at Alaska Satellite Facility as a Product Owner and use the skills learned through my BFA daily with the creation and organization of products/projects. Olena Ellis '18 BFA, Ceramics

Alumni

 

 

 

Ryota Kajita. Photo courtesy of the artist

Ryota Kajita, 2014, MFA in Photography

Ryota Kaji Kajita, a Japanese-born photographer with an MFA from UAF, captures Alaska's beauty through medium format film, exploring remote villages and natural landscapes during his travels.

Read More

 

Sara Hensel. Courtesy of the artist

Sara Hensel, 2018, BFA in Ceramics

Sara Hensel, a Portland-based potter with a BFA in ceramics, creates community-inspired work centered on generosity and sharing. She teaches ceramics and promotes inclusivity in the art community.

Read More

 

Xochiyollotl Carrow Harbison, courtesy of the artist

Xochiyollotl Harbison, 2022, MFA in Ceramics

Xochiyollotl Carrow Harbison, an Alaska native and MFA graduate, creates ceramics addressing her experiences as a plus-size queer woman and plans to establish her own studio.

Read More