When Niki Noland first stepped onto Wichita State University’s campus, they were drawn to the College of Fine Arts by the plethora of opportunities it offered. “I really enjoyed how the first two years covered foundational studies,” Noland recalls. “It gave me a chance to dive into the Fine Arts program and gain a solid understanding of all the areas of study. I wasn’t incredibly familiar with printmaking before I came to Wichita State, but having the opportunity to take Intro to Printmaking early on allowed me to discover my passion and place within the College.” 

Throughout their time at WSU, Noland found inspiration not only in their classroom experiences but also in the spaces they frequented. “One of my favorite places on campus was my studio space in McKnight,” they said. “It gave me a place to work on my art while being surrounded by constant creativity. I loved being able to discuss my work and others’ with the people in my program.” Noland also found community and inspiration beyond the studio, frequenting the Political Science Lounge in Lindquist Hall as a member of the Model United Nations team. “The friends I met there supported me and my art, and the experiences I had in that space continue to influence my artistic practice today,” they said.

A transformative moment in Noland’s artistic journey came during their senior year, when they traveled to New York City with WSU professor Robert Bubp. “We spent a week visiting museums and galleries across the city, and I discovered many new artists that influenced me,” Noland explains. One particularly impactful encounter was with Alexander Calder’s Cirque Calder collection. “Alongside the miniatures, there was a recording of one of his performances, where he maneuvered the pieces across a miniature stage for a private audience. The designs of his circus performers heavily influenced the work I created for my Senior Exhibition, and his work continues to inspire my artistic practice now.”

Noland’s time at WSU laid the foundation for their current role as a studio assistant at Public Print, Co. in Kansas City. “As a studio assistant, I utilize the printmaking and design skills I developed at WSU every day,” she says. “Printmaking requires quick thinking and problem-solving skills I honed at Wichita State. Even when working with large Heidelberg and Kluge printing presses that I didn’t use at WSU, my foundational skills allow me to create high-quality prints.”

At Public Print, Noland applies their talents to letterpress printing, foil embossing, and die-cutting for wedding invitations, stationery, business cards, and other custom projects. “The main thing I enjoy about this work is its adaptability,” they said. “Each week brings a new print with a new process. WSU prepared me to learn quickly and adjust to unfamiliar techniques, which makes every project exciting.”

As a Wichita State alum in Kansas City’s creative community, Noland has embraced the city’s thriving arts scene. “The creative community here is quite large, which can be both a good and challenging thing,” they said. “I’ve had a fantastic time attending events, art markets, and gallery shows across the city—it’s inspiring to connect with other artists and continue growing my practice.”

Reflecting on their own journey, Noland offers advice to current Fine Arts students: “Try as much as you can. There are so many opportunities in the Fine Arts Department and across campus to learn and grow your artistic practice. Don’t be afraid to explore something new—you never know what might spark inspiration for your art.”