I appreciate the opportunities for artists in Denver.

If you’re an aspiring artist or digital designer, you might expect it to take years before your work is displayed in an international gallery. But at CU Denver, that dream could become a reality while you're still an undergraduate. 

Just ask Emmi Brunner and Evan Kosi, two digital design majors from CU Denver’s College of Arts & Media (CAM). This year, they are showcasing their work in the CU Denver Experience Gallery, located in the Denver Center for the Performing Arts Complex.  

Their designs are featured in “Time and Spaces: The Life of Eddie Henderson,” an immersive exhibition inspired by the renowned jazz musician. Students in the Motion Design II class—led by Associate Professor Travis Vermilye and Professor Michelle Carpenter—created collaborative works influenced by Henderson’s music. 

While such opportunities might seem rare, CU Denver’s CAM frequently offers real-world experiences that bolster their portfolio, expand their professional networks, and prepare them for career success—even before they’ve earned their diploma. It’s these types of catered experiences that made Brunner and Kosi choose CU Denver.   

Why CU Denver? 

“I grew up being an artist and feared the ‘starving artist’ stereotype,” Brunner said. “But CU Denver has shown me that I can have a successful career doing what I love. I’m excited for my future and eager to turn my creativity into a career, not just a hobby.” 

Brunner is leveraging CU Denver’s accelerated track that allows her to work on her thesis while preparing for graduation, which will help her start her career sooner. She hopes to create a product or brand for her thesis and is also focusing on securing an internship, which will provide valuable experience as she looks for jobs after graduating in spring 2025. 

Similarly, Kosi, a Denver native, initially left the state for college in search of art world opportunities but returned during the pandemic. At CU Denver, he found the perfect fit and plans to graduate in spring 2026. "I fell in love immediately. There’s an overwhelming sense of down-to-earthiness here," he said. "People support art for the love of it, not just to advance their careers. It's so refreshing." 

Both students view the Experience Gallery project as a highlight of their CU Denver experience. For this project, part of the Motion Design II course, students worked in groups to select an Eddie Henderson song and create visual representations of the music. They collaborated on color palettes and imagery, then designed individual animation-style frames to produce a cohesive project with unique elements from each designer. “The material was really inspiring,” Kosi said. “Seeing the different creative directions come together was beautiful.” 

CU Denver’s Unique Galleries  

Andrew Palamara, the gallery coordinator, appreciates how CU Denver’s galleries— including the Emmanuel Art Gallery on campus—connect with students. “One of the things I really like about these galleries is that they elevate student work by featuring it alongside professional artists.” 

Students also gain hands-on experience working at the galleries, building their resumes and portfolios. “Being able to say you helped install multiple exhibitions during your time at CU Denver adds significant value to your academic experience,” Palamara said. 

The galleries also create a bridge between the campus and the Denver art community. “Being in a city like this means you have opportunities to be involved both on and off campus, enhancing your education,” Palamara said. “We’re fortunate to feel like part of Denver’s art community.” 

Kosi agreed, noting that CU Denver’s resources have made a big difference. “I’ve had a lot of doors open up for me,” he said. “Also, the quality of the educators is exceptional—they’re all so talented and knowledgeable. I’ve gotten a lot of good, practical experience from the program here.”