CCBC Essex Art Students Showcase Capstone Projects in 'Becoming 2026' Exhibition

The free public reception on February 20 allows visitors to meet the artists and vote on their favorite works.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Gallery at CCBC Essex is hosting an exhibition called 'Becoming 2026' that showcases the capstone projects of nine art students at the college. The exhibition, curated by David Zobel, demonstrates what the students have learned and achieved during their time at CCBC Essex. The show includes works by students in various disciplines like illustration, fine art, graphic design, and henna. A free public reception on February 20 will allow visitors to meet the artists, hear about their creative processes, and vote on their favorite pieces.

Why it matters

The 'Becoming 2026' exhibition provides an opportunity for CCBC Essex art students to showcase their talent and hard work to the local community. It also highlights the college's strong art program and its ability to prepare students for the next steps in their creative careers through the Portfolio Development course.

The details

The 'Becoming 2026' exhibition is on display at The Gallery at CCBC Essex through March 27, 2026. The show features the capstone projects of nine students in the art department's Portfolio Development course, which helps them prepare professional portfolios, learn business skills, and get ready for interviews and client relationships. The exhibition includes works by students in a variety of disciplines such as illustration, fine art, graphic design, and henna.

  • The 'Becoming 2026' exhibition is on display at The Gallery at CCBC Essex through March 27, 2026.
  • There will be a free public reception on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 6-8 p.m.

The players

David Zobel

The curator of the 'Becoming 2026' exhibition at The Gallery at CCBC Essex.

Freddy Baker

An art student at CCBC Essex whose work is featured in the 'Becoming 2026' exhibition, with a focus on illustration and fine art.

Sumaiya-Alee Goumaa

An art student at CCBC Essex whose work is featured in the 'Becoming 2026' exhibition, with a focus on fine art and henna.

Alex Kight

An art student at CCBC Essex whose work is featured in the 'Becoming 2026' exhibition, with a focus on illustration.

Tanner Malinowski

An art student at CCBC Essex whose work is featured in the 'Becoming 2026' exhibition, with a focus on graphic design.

Emily Morey

An art student at CCBC Essex whose work is featured in the 'Becoming 2026' exhibition, with a focus on illustration.

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What they’re saying

“The 'Becoming 2026' exhibition provides an opportunity for CCBC Essex art students to showcase their talent and hard work to the local community.”

— David Zobel, Curator (baltimorefishbowl.com)

What’s next

Visitors can vote on their favorite pieces of art at the February 20 reception, and awards will be presented for artworks in several categories.

The takeaway

The 'Becoming 2026' exhibition highlights the strength of CCBC Essex's art program and its ability to prepare students for the next steps in their creative careers through the Portfolio Development course. It's an opportunity for the community to engage with and support the next generation of local artists.