2025/26 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Dylan Gfroerer

How/why did you choose your major?

I chose my major in Graphic Design because it allows me to combine my passion for photography and design. It also allows me to further my skills for my future career in the design industry!

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I love black and white portraits! Their Reflection was inspired by the style of an artist I follow named Jesse Draxler. The images were taken digitally and combined with Photoshop. The project itself was a direct response to some of my earliest portraits that I combined physically through collage. It was fun revisiting that idea.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I came to MCAD for the endless opportunities and resources offered. I’m also somewhat local so coming to MCAD allows me to still spend time at home with my family!

What's next for your practice? Anything you're really excited to make?

I’m currently exploring analog photography and experimenting with how I can incorporate design into the process through scanning and reprinting.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

The community. MCAD is a different world from where I grew up and it’s a great feeling being surrounded by other creative people!

What inspires you?

Music. From heavy metal to club music, I find inspiration in every emotion music brings.

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

My absolute favorite piece I’ve ever made is some black and white portraits I recently took of my friends. I wanted to take some high-fashion editorial portraits on film, and it was a rewarding experiment!

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

Going on walks & enjoying the sun on campus!

What's the best thing you've found on the Free Shelf?

A camera lens! I haven’t used it yet but I absolutely plan to.

Lastly, do you have a favorite question we didn't ask? Tell us and answer it!

What’s your favorite album? So glad you asked. Currently it’s Negative Spaces by Poppy. Give it a listen.