Student art on display at restaurants

2nd Period from left to right: Back row: Liam Reaves, Ethan Mann, Terrence Slocum, Harry Lawrence, Director Brad Bishop. Front Row: Professor Steven Djavaheri, Ralph Byrd holding art by Arrie Jenkins, Takayla Barnes, Elizabeth Mullen, Kaylee Solano.

This year, several Starke restaurants are displaying the artwork of 43 North Florida Technical College digital design students.  Sonny’s Barbecue, Grannies Country Cooking, Funpoint, Downtown Grill and Captain D’s will display the artwork.

3rd Period from left to right: Levi Lowe, Breion Johnson, Christina Howard, August Lefevers.

The college’s digital design Professor, Steven Djavaheri, said the collaborative initiative will transform the eateries into vibrant galleries, offering patrons a chance to savor both culinary delights and the diverse visual expressions of young artists over an extensive three-month period.

4th Period from left to right: Back row: Jake Degeus, Jordan Cason, Jayden Daugherty, Joshua Napier. Front Row: Harley Seay, Kiley Boulris.

The instructor added that the driving force behind the artistic endeavor lies in the students’ passion and the support of the college’s Director, Brad Bishop.

“His generosity in approving funding for this project has paved the way, highlighting the importance of nurturing artistic initiatives within educational institutions,” Djavaheri said.

5th Period from left to right: Back row: Parviele Lee, Jyquez Cason, Jonathan Tyson holding art by Jake Harris, Alyaisha Myles. Front Row: Student holding art by Ar’monie Brown, Tra’nique Thompson.

In the digital design class, students learn the intricacies of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign in addition to the world of 3D printing. The comprehensive curriculum prepares them for the dynamic landscape of digital design.

The instructor, who has a master’s degree in information technology, said his classroom isn’t just a space for skill acquisition; it’s a hub of inspiration and camaraderie.

6th Period from left to right: Christopher Contreras, Ingris Ramos Alvarez.

“Together, these learners delve into everything crucial for training the next generation of digital professionals,” he said. “Shaping not just skills but also a shared passion for the evolving world of technology.”

The framed artworks are available for $25 a piece and may be purchased through the school.

6th Period from left to right: Back row: Christine Reaves, Devin Hall, Hayden Kilby, Cameron Newman, Iyen Addison. Front Row: Lydia Bland, William Maust, Savannah Roode.

Djavaheri said every sale enables him to fund future projects for his students.

“It’s a harmonious relationship between art and education,” he said, “where creativity adorns walls and fuels the engine of innovation.”

7th Period from left to right: Back row: Kylie Maloy, Jackson Miller, Koen Reddish. Front Row: Alexis Kicklighter, Courtney Hannah, Paige Steed.