Merging artistry and innovation in a groundbreaking exhibition for South Florida.

The Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn College of Communication and Design and its dean, Cesar Santalo, hosted a premier art exhibit and panel discussion at the Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) on Oct. 17. The event was a multifaceted showcase, engaging students, community members and artists at the forefront of digital expression, NFTs and the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the creative process.

“Today, we’re witnessing a new era in which artists have an unprecedented opportunity to reach audiences and establish their digital ownership,” said Santalo, who led the evening’s programming. “Our students have a front-row seat to this evolution, and our goal is to foster both their creativity and their understanding of technology as tools of artistic expression.”

The event began with a warm reception, giving attendees the chance to preview pieces from Lynn’s College of Communication and Design’s “Art on BRiC Walls” initiative. Featuring a curated selection of illustrations, paintings and digital art, the initiative connects the university with South Florida’s creative community and brings new perspectives on campus.

Distinguished guests

The highlight of the evening was a panel discussion, “The Artist as an Exalted Artisan: AI, NFTs, & Art,” which sparked conversations about the changing landscape of creativity. Moderated by Florida International University Assistant Professor Ariel Robbins, the panel included Alejandro Cartagena, photographer; Michael Assis, art historian, philosopher and entrepreneur; and School of Visual Arts Professor Robert Stratton, also known as artist “madbutter.” Each panelist brought unique insights into how AI and NFTs are redefining creativity and ownership in today’s digital age.

“It’s inspiring to see how NFTs have created new ways for photographers like me to share work and connect with audiences,” said Cartagena. “It’s not just about making art; it’s about expanding the boundaries of what art can achieve in a digital world.”

“Digital art and NFTs give artists more freedom and security in their creations, allowing for more powerful collaborations and creations,” added Stratton.

Michael Assis, who spoke to the cultural significance of these changes, noted that society today is redefining the very nature of creativity as technology continues to advance.

“NFTs and AI challenge our ideas about originality, ownership and the enduring impact of art,” said Assis.

Student artistry

The evening also celebrated student artistry and practical experiences through Lynn’s “All Hands on Deck” skateboard design competition—one of the largest skateboard design competitions in the state. The contest distributed over 140 skateboard decks to Lynn students, local high schools and middle schools, as well as Handy, a nonprofit organization that supports kids in foster care as well as individuals who are unhoused. Contestants, including Lynn faculty members, joined in on the fun to creatively design an original skateboard deck for inclusion in the competition and exhibit.

Author and skateboarding icon Brandon Novak judged the contest, presenting awards to three high school students and three Lynn student winners: Amanda Topple ’25, whose skateboard titled Confinement, won first place; Cash Hudson ’28 in second place; and Lindsay Kaye ’26 in third.

“Every deck tells a story, and seeing the creativity here is a reminder of how powerful art can be in any medium,” said Novak. “Through this project, these students have set a high bar and have shown how determination and community can create amazing outcomes.”

Exhibits following the panel discussion showcased diverse works, including Digitalism 2024, a collection of Lynn faculty and student digital art; madbutter, highlighting Stratton’s unique and impactful digital pieces; The Pioneer, dedicated to late sculptor Buky Schwartz; and the Holocaust and Genocide Project, a powerful installation from the GenZ Story Expression Workshop.

With over 300 people in attendance, the event’s success highlighted Lynn’s commitment to explore art’s digital frontier, inspire students and the wider South Florida community to engage in new conversations at the intersection of creativity and technology in the world of digital art..

Source: Lynn University’s College of Communication and Design explores digital frontiers