Graphic Design Professor Kelly Bryant Retires

Kelly Bryant has been a faculty member in the School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD) since 2000, having served as a full professor since 2011 teaching in typography, publication design, magazine design, illustration and drawing courses. In addition to over 30 years in design education, Bryant’s personal work has focused on collage and painting.

“In the last 25 years, Kelly has not only shaped Auburn’s graphic design program through exceptional teaching, but also inspired generations of students and colleagues with mentorship rooted in creativity, kindness and unwavering dedication,” said SIGD School Head Wei Wang. “Kelly’s legacy and impact will continue to guide and uplift long after her retirement.”

Bryant earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Auburn University before pursuing a Master of Arts in Illustration from Syracuse University. Initially trained as a publication designer, Bryant naturally turned to typography in her personal artwork, exploring color and pattern through collage.

During her time at Auburn, Bryant has received multiple teaching awards including Auburn’s Gerald and Emily Leischuck Endowed Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching, the SIGD Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award and the Alumni Association Undergraduate Teaching Excellence Award.

Bryant was named the 2023 Alabama State Fellow and a Southern Prize Finalist by South Arts for a compilation of 2D collages and 3D collage artist books. In 2024, her art book “in the air” was featured in an exhibition by the Center for Book Arts in New York City. Previously, her award-winning poster “Theoretical Agency” was selected for Creative Quarterly’s 100 Best publication.

Some of her recent work—including a series of artist books meant to be interactive—is currently on display at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art as part of the SHOWCASE 2025.

Bryant has been named Professor Emerita in recognition of her years of impactful teaching and student mentorship.