Two Daemen University illustration majors have won prestigious American Advertising Awards – the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition – which recognize the creative spirit of excellence in the art of advertising.
AAF Buffalo, the local chapter of the American Advertising Federation, hosted its annual American Advertising Awards (ADDYs) event last month.
Seniors Tessa Davidson and Alex Magee both won silver awards in the “Elements of Advertising” category. Student work is judged by esteemed local industry professionals, with only a small percentage of entrants receiving silver and gold medals.
“The ADDY Awards are well established and certainly one of the most significant annual design events in Buffalo,” said Philip Longson, an assistant professor of illustration in Daemen’s Visual and Performing Arts Department. “In winning these awards, Tessa and Alex have seen their work recognized and celebrated by industry professionals and have been able to get their work in front of many design agencies and art directors, demonstrating to them that their work is of a professional standard and opening up the potential for professional commissions.”
The ADDY Awards is part of a three-tier competition. Local winners are passed on to a district competition and then the nationals.
Longson added, “Both Alex and Tessa are very hard-working students who never shy away from a challenge. Having seen them diligently working in the campus art studios for the past few years, I’m delighted to see their work out in the world.”
Senior illustration and graphic design students will display their artwork at two exhibitions. The events will be held on May 3 and May 10, 2024, from 4-6 p.m. in the Elizabeth C. and Peter Tower Gallery located in the Haberman Gacioch Arts Center.