Shown are OBU award winners and faculty, from left, Associate Professor Josh Brunet, Natalie Bright, Kaylen King, Payton Hufford and Corey Fuller, Chair of Art and Design.
OBU Artists Shine at ADDY Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Illustration and Design
March 4, 2024
OBU continues to distinguish itself as a hub for artistic talent, as evidenced by the recent success of its students at the Addy Awards, presented by the American Advertising Federation.
Three current and former students from OBU's renowned Art and Design Division were among the standout winners.
Natalie Bright, a recent graphic design graduate, December 2023, from Tahlequah, Okla., claimed not one but two awards. Bright's pieces "221 Baker Street" and "Falling Upward Cover" earned her a Silver Addy and a Bronze Addy, respectively. With a major in graphic design, Bright now applies her talents as a designer for Hobby Lobby corporate.
Payton Hufford, a senior from Bentonville, Ark., showcased her artistic talents with "The Goose Girl," earning her a coveted Gold Addy. Hufford, a major in Art, balances her dedication to her craft with her commitments as a pole vaulter for OBU women's track and field.
Kaylen King of Bethany, Okla., a junior majoring in graphic design, captured attention with her piece titled "Mystery Product = Banana," earning a Silver Addy in the poster campaign category. King, a distance runner for OBU track and field, exemplifies the university's commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals.
Corey Fuller, Chair of Art and Design, expressed his pride in the students' achievements.
“We're very proud of these three students,” Fuller said. “Their hard work and dedication have paid off. Not only are these ladies excellent within their academic major, but they're also involved outside the classroom. Natalie has participated in multiple music and theatre productions, while Payton and Kaylen both compete for OBU Track and Field. They've each found ways to be successful in multiple arenas. Professor (Josh) Brunet and I are both excited for their potential as they leave Bison Hill to enter the job market as artists, designers, and creatives.”
Fuller also commended Brunet, associate professor of art, for his instrumental role in mentoring the award-winning students, underscoring OBU's commitment to nurturing talent across diverse disciplines.
OBU's success at the Addy Awards not only underscores the caliber of its art and design program but also highlights the multifaceted achievements of its students.
Learn more about OBU’s Division of Art and Design.