Afrofuturism in the Making

Join us for a conversation with CCS alumni as they share insights on human creativity, career pathways, and innovative practices shaping what’s next in art, design, and creative industries. The discussion will be followed by a Q&A and a brunch reception.

Moderated by Kiana Wenzell, Co-Executive Director of Design Core Detroit, the panel features four distinguished CCS alumni.

Jay Norm (Graphic Design, attended CCS) is Global Director of Creative Strategy at Spotify and co-founder of the award-winning strategy+content shop Verse + Hook. He has over 15 years of experience creating culturally impactful campaigns for international brands and artists.

Maya Davis (‘22, Fine Arts – Art Education) is an artist and educator whose practice explores care, resilience, and transformation through diverse media. Their work has been exhibited at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, Good Weather (Chicago), and Reyes Finn (Detroit), and they have participated in residencies with Kresge Arts, Independent Curators International, and Sidewalk Detroit.

Bo Shepherd (‘12, Transportation Design) is co-owner and Head of Design at Woodward Throwbacks, a Detroit-based interior and furniture studio known for story-driven, reclaimed-material designs. A former GM Transportation Designer and CCS alum, she is also the author of Throwback Home Interiors, with work featured in Domino and on Magnolia Network.

Dr. Jocelyn Rainey (‘96, Fine Arts) is a Detroit-based artist, scholar, and educator whose vibrant abstract work explores resilience, community, and cultural narrative. She is the founder of Finding Mona Lisa 313, an arts-education initiative transforming urban students’ lives through global art travel and immersive learning experiences.

Free and open to all. Family friendly.