The 2025–2026 Graduation Exhibition of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) opened with a ceremony attended by academics, students, and art enthusiasts. Featuring projects and artworks created by graduating students from the faculty’s four departments, the exhibition attracted considerable interest from visitors.

Held at the Faculty of Fine Arts Exhibition Hall, the exhibition showcases works produced by students throughout their four-year academic journey. The displayed projects and artworks represent the Departments of Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Painting, and Ceramics and Glass.

A total of 62 graduating students participated in the exhibition. The display includes 20 projects from the Department of Industrial Design, 74 works created by Graphic Design students, 46 artworks produced by Painting students, and 28 works from the Department of Ceramics and Glass. Altogether, 168 works are being presented to the public.

Founded in 2012, the Faculty of Fine Arts currently offers education through four active departments and serves approximately 640 undergraduate students. The graduation exhibition was described as an important reflection of the students’ academic and artistic development.

Dean Seylan: “We Are Proud of You”

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts Prof. Dr. Ali Seylan emphasized the significance of art and design exhibitions in demonstrating the mission of fine arts faculties and their connection with society.

“As is well known, art and design exhibitions are among the most important reflections of why faculties of fine arts exist and how they engage with society. Artists and designers are not limited to their personal and professional development; they also play a vital role in shaping society’s aesthetic appreciation. Witnessing our students take their first professional steps and seeing the hope and excitement in their eyes is a great source of pride and happiness for us as educators. I sincerely thank all our academic staff who have guided them throughout this journey.

Becoming an artist or designer is not simply about acquiring technical knowledge and skills over four years. It also requires sensitivity to the challenges facing our world, our country, and our era; a commitment to universal responsibility; and a lifelong passion for learning. As of today, you are taking the first and most meaningful step in a great journey that you will pursue with your own creative vision and free will. This exhibition offers the first glimpses of the lasting marks you will leave on the future. We are proud of you.”

The opening ceremony was also attended by Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Deputy Secretary General Necmi Çamaş.