The College of Design Art Club (CODAC) at Iowa State recently organized a fundraiser to support free art workshops and an upcoming ceramics convention trip, with students contributing original designs that emphasized diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

“Art can be a really expensive subject or hobby to get into,” said Sam Morrow, the club’s treasurer and a graduate of the integrated studio arts program. “We put on these workshops for free to make sure anyone can participate.”

The fundraiser featured designs created by several students, including Jennifer Cruz-Meiborg, Karina Scott, Alex Mier, Galvin Smith and Irina Sacuiu. Many of the items highlighted DEI themes, a deliberate choice by the artists.

“I was motivated to focus on DEI because I see how it’s become a topic that has been twisted,” Cruz-Meiborg said. “I wanted to give an alternate perspective and highlight how Iowa State and Ames have a diverse thinking group.”

Morrow echoed the sentiment, adding that DEI should not be politicized. 

“It has everything to do with creating something beautiful, a lot like art, and it can be reflected in our community too,” Morrow said.

The club’s designs included buttons and shirts featuring messages of inclusivity. Each student added their own artwork to the fundraiser, showcasing different styles and ideas.

Along with raising money, they wanted to hear what people thought about their designs. 

“We’re curious about people’s opinions on the buttons themselves,” Cruz-Meiborg said.

The club’s fundraiser is part of its broader efforts to foster an accessible and welcoming creative space on campus.

Learn more about the club by visiting their website.