An arts education led to unique careers for two PSOA alums recognized on “40 Under 40” list

Two Peck School of the Arts alumni were chosen for the Milwaukee Business Journal’s annual “40 Under 40” awards, which honors Milwaukee’s brightest young leaders and professionals. Both leveraged their arts education to pursue unique careers. Nathan Zimmerman ’13 is the founder and owner of ZimKnives, a business that focuses on making prestige precision knives, swords and other metal tools and implements. Meagan Johnson ’09 is the founder and executive director of Milwaukee Diaper Mission.

ArtsECO alum who uses art to make a difference in her community receives national award

Jeanette Arellano, an alum of UWM’s ArtsECO program, uses art in her classroom to make a difference in the Milwaukee community.  Recently, the National Education Association award Arellano with their César Chávez Acción y Compromiso Human and Civil Rights Award. The award acknowledges her for embodying the spirit of César Chávez and making “noble contributions to the labor movement through commitment, action, negotiation, and art.” 

Film alumni debut new festival to increase diversity in Milwaukee cinema  

The world of independent film in Milwaukee is expanding with the Milwaukee Illuminate Film Festival, a new event spearheaded by festival director and Peck School graduate Amber McNeill (BFA 2023, Film). McNeill, who is also lead programmer, is joined by fellow PSOA alum Zoe Lufman (BFA 2023, Film), who serves as operations manager and programmer. McNeill and Lufman met at UWM during their senior-year film course and immediately embraced their commonalities.

Theatre alum brings ghostly features to life in world premiere production 

In Milwaukee’s recent World Premiere of The Forgotten Girl, production design is more important than ever. Viewers are immersed in the world of the main characters Iris and Daniel as they discover the abandoned grave of a girl in their grade and begin interacting with her ghost. Scenic designer Amaya Rockett (BFA 2022, Theatre Production) is the one responsible for creating the world where these features come to life.

Film and Animation alumni, faculty, and staff represented in screenings around the world

From current graduate students to esteemed alumni and faculty members, the Peck School of the Arts Department of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres was well represented on the international film festival circuit this Fall. We’re excited to showcase the achievements of some of our very own who are currently screening their works across the globe.

MFA alum Allison Calteux explores family’s history in archival project

Allison Calteux (MFA 2023, Art) has been receiving attention for her recent photography project Remnants // relics // remembrance. The impressive body of work examines her family archives through self-portraits and still-life interactions with books, jewelry, and images, creating representations of her ancestors. Calteux is now a lecturer in photography and imaging lecturer at PSOA.

Alumni Spotlight: A “Top 10” Designer to Watch

In the dynamic world of graphic design, Naomi Dable stands as a testament to the power of creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit. As the proud owner of Naomi Paper Co., Naomi has been named a “Top 10 Designer to Watch” by an industry magazine.