Friday, June 5, 2026

Muskegon Community College celebrated student creativity and achievement through its Centennial and 62nd Student Art Exhibition and Reception, which featured outstanding works produced by visual art students during the 2025-26 academic year.

The exhibition was held in the Overbrook Theater and Overbrook Gallery and showcased a diverse collection of student artwork across multiple mediums. This year’s exhibition was juried by Michigan State University Associate Professor of Art Benjamin Duke, who selected pieces representing the strongest examples of technical skill, creativity, and artistic expression.

A public reception took place on June 2, 2026, featuring an awards ceremony that recognized exceptional student artists for their work and achievement.

Dawson LaBrenz’s Untitled (clay) was selected as the President’s Purchase Award winner and was added to the Muskegon Community College Art Collection as part of the college’s permanent collection.

“Being a part of MCC’s art program this past year has been an awesome experience, and I feel like I’ve really grown as an artist,” LaBrenz said. “My classmates and instructors are incredibly talented and have been a big inspiration. Winning this award is a huge honor, and I’m very grateful.”

MCC Art Faculty Erin Hoffman said she was impressed with the exceptional quality of work displayed throughout the exhibition.

“The level of talent, creativity, and dedication demonstrated by our students was truly remarkable,” Hoffman said. “These artists challenged themselves throughout the year and produced work that reflects both technical skill and personal vision. It’s exciting to see the next generation of artists developing their talents at MCC, and we are proud to help provide the foundation, mentorship, and opportunities that support their artistic growth.”

The exhibition remains open to the public through Sept. 3, 2026.

For more information about the Visual Arts program at Muskegon Community College, contact the Visual Arts Department.

View a complete list of award winners below.

PRESIDENT’S PURCHASE AWARD for the MCC Art Collection (chosen by the college) $300
Dawson LaBrenz, “Untitled” , Clay

FIRST PLACE: $400
Anna Whynot, “Untitled”, Clay

$300 SECOND PLACE:
Bevan Cottone, ”I Promise You’re Getting Older”, Oil Paint

$200 THIRD PLACE:
Francesca Sipe, “Calliope”, Porcelain and Fabric

$150 FOURTH PLACE:
Heather Layne, “I am a Sneaky Snek”, Mixed Media

$100 HONORABLE MENTIONS: 

Mylie Yonkers, “Master Study: After Frederic-Pierre Tschaggeny”, Graphite

Tyler Carlson, “Untitled”, Altered Book

Nadia Hildreth, Untitled, Collage

Emily Crawford, “Untitled”, Clay