Lily Butler
Degree: BA in Graphic Design with Spanish and Art History minors
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Greensboro, NC
How did you first get interested in art?
I grew up in a household saturated with the arts. I was constantly surrounded by creative projects and experimented with all kinds of mediums like photography, writing, drawing, video editing, etc, so I’ve been drawn to artistic expression for as long as I can remember. When I finally discovered graphic design in high school, I realized it was the perfect middle ground between all of these interests I had accumulated throughout my life. I could apply them all to graphic design and I fell in love with the processes of it.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to utilize my degree in graphic design to uplift my local community. Whether it’s working with local businesses, public arts events (exhibitions, concerts, etc), or supporting cultural institutions and nonprofits, I want to give back and provide an experience for the betterment of those around me. My minor in Spanish, as well, would allow me to do so across the language barrier to increase inclusivity and foster a larger sense of community.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Art & Art History?
I love the sense of openness and community in the Graphic Design department and the College of Arts + Architecture as a whole. I think the relaxed, welcoming, encouraging environment the faculty create allows for students to thrive and facilitates a space for peer connection and immense creative growth. I feel very close to my cohort and professors and am immensely grateful for that sense of safety and community. I feel like I can experiment across mediums and styles freely without fear of judgement.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
I currently work as the Graphic Design Intern for the Career Center on campus, which allows me to engage with my academic community and promote useful events and resources for my peers’ professional development (and my own!). I work as a freelance designer and photographer and have worked with local bands, film studios, and nonprofit organizations to provide them the services they need to thrive. I love to attend the exhibitions we have on campus, as well, and it is always so inspiring to see the works of my peers and visiting artists! Attending these exhibitions and other receptions by various arts organizations on campus such as Midas and Nova always gives me an immense feeling of pride to be a part of such an incredible community of artists. Over Spring break this semester, I traveled with other College of Arts + Architecture students to New York City to experience the cultural arts scene, and it was such an incredible experience. I am also a Music Festival Production Intern at Southern Entertainment helping to facilitate live performances and events for the public!
What have you gained from being a scholarship student?
I have been recently honored to receive departmental scholarships including the Irma Irene Mull Memorial Scholarship, Greg Middleton Graphic Design Scholarship, and Broderick Ade Hogue Memorial Scholarship. Each of these provide me the necessary funds to further my education and allow me to pursue my dream career in graphic design. I have also been awarded the Nell and Fred Figge Endowed Scholarship for International Study, which provides funding for me to pursue an abroad program. I plan to study abroad in the Fall 2025 semester in order to hone my proficiency in Spanish and to fulfill the remaining necessary credits for my minor.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
In my free time, I love to bake, run, read, and explore new places! Little adventures and day trips always excite me. I also am a big fan of any craft (and have a very long list of summer craft plans) and love collecting CDs.