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Art & Art History
University of Mississippi

Q&A with Payton Noonan (BFA Graphic Design)

d’oro 
March 25-28th, 2024

Closing Reception
When: Wednesday, March 27rd, 2024, 4:30–6:00 PM
Where: Gallery 130, Meek Hall


Introduce yourself and tell us where you are from.
My name is Payton Noonan and I am from Johns Creek,GA.

What attracted you to the Department of Art & Art History?
Throughout high school, I took graphic design courses and found my passion for design. When applying to the University of Mississippi I knew I wanted to continue graphic design and was excited to see that their art department offered this pathway.

What type of artwork do you create and can you discuss your process?
Most of the work I create is digital but I love to combine different artistic techniques such as printmaking with the resources in the building. I am most drawn to logo design and branding asa designer. My process begins with researching, sketching, and experimenting. Making many different versions is the way to find the best solution.

Which artists do you look to for inspiration?
An Artist I look to for inspiration is Hayley O’Connor with Sea Street Studio. She does a lot of illustration and Branding for coastal brands. The ocean is a big inspiration of mine and her work has a very coastal feel.

Which professors inspired you the most?
A few professors who have inspired me the most are Tyler Barnes, Brooke White, and Hudd Byard. Throughout my 4 years at this University, I have taken many courses with Professor Barnes and he has challenged me to be a better designer. Teaching us how to succeed outside of the classroom. Photography has always been an interest of mine and Brooke White has really shown me how to take photos with intent. I struggled a lot with some of the equipment but I had to learn how to overcome these challenges and she was always there to help. Although I have only had Professor Byrad for one course which I am currently taking, he has truly shown me how to experiment with text and design. His classroom always is vibrant and fun and we take the time to just play and have fun with our designs. We are always interacting with each other’s works to see what is working and what isn’t and it has taught me a lot in a very short period of time.

What has been your favorite class during your years here?
My favorite class during my 4 years here has definitely been Editorial Design which I am currently taking. I fell in love with editorial work the moment the class started. Playing with photography and text has been so much fun but also challenging in many ways.

Do you have a favorite memory here in the department?
Some of my favorite memories I have made in the department have been when me and my fellow classmates have been under the most stress. During our BFA forum and now our BFA Theis show we have all gotten really close. When you have been at the building all day working hard on our work, sometimes the delusion kicks in and the jokes start flying. Im thankful for all my moments here.

Do you have any advice for incoming art students?
The advice I have for incoming students would be to have fun! Experiment in all the courses you take because you never know what you might enjoy if you don’t try.

Do you have any hobbies outside of the art department?
Outside of the art department I love to hangout with my friends, play pickleball, and take as many weekend trips as I can!

What is your favorite thing about Oxford or the University?
My favorite thing about Oxford and the University is the sense of community. Everyone feels close here, I feel like I always have somewhere to go if I need someone.

Can we find you on social media?
You can find me on Instagram @paytonnoonan and my future website paytonnoonandesign.myportfolio.com

Do you have any plans after graduation?
My plans after college aren’t fixed yet but I plan on moving to Florida to continue my love for Graphic Design and Fashion.