CWU Graphic Arts Student's Design Chosen for Jazz in the Valley Poster

For the second time in two years, a Central Washington University student's design has been chosen for the iconic Jazz in the Valley (JIV) poster. Sharlyn Gonzalez Santiago, a senior graphic design major from Bremerton, created the winning artwork for the annual design competition held earlier this year.

"In my poster, I have the instruments that make the sounds of jazz," said Santiago. "Each has a bright color to represent the unique sounds and colors of summer. They overlap one another to show the unity of the sounds of jazz. Little details of each instrument is repeated with simple organic lines to represent the good vibrations one experiences from this event."

As public relations officer for the Filipino American Student Association, she has designed logos, t-shirts, and event posters. She also works as the graphic designer for CWU’s Center for Diversity and Social Justice. Last summer, she interned with Kaduku Clothing, a Seattle business. Her online portfolio can be viewed at www.behance.net/sharlyngs

CWU graphic arts professor Chris Hinrichs has made entering the JIV poster contest a class project. Last year’s poster was created by student Jordan Watts.

“In Illustration class, I always base my assignments on real-world parameters,” said Hinrichs. “Thus to be able to use an actual real-world project for an assignment is a great opportunity. This poster competition offers the winner professional exposure, a resume-worthy accomplishment, and cash—things all art students can benefit from. As this competition is open to professional artists and designers, I am very pleased that two of my students have won.”

Jazz in the Valley is a three-day international music festival located in historic downtown Ellensburg. It is a 17-year tradition that attracts celebrated jazz and blues musicians from all over the world. For more information about this year’s event, go to www.jazzinthevalley.com.

Poster image courtesy of Jazz in the Valley

Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu