DAAPworks 2026 transformed DAAP's classrooms into curated galleries showcasing capstone projects from nearly 450 graduating students across 18 majors, closing with the program's signature runway fashion show. It was the first DAAPworks hosted under new dean Stephanie Pilat, who called the event a meaningful showcase of the college's creativity and critical thinking. Nearly 50 awards were handed out, including the inaugural Director's Choice Awards.
Curated projects from DAAPworks 2026 will travel to the Design Museum of Chicago this summer, marking the first time the show has appeared in a major design museum. The exhibition introduces graduating DAAP students' work to audiences beyond campus and runs July 16 through Sept. 13, 2026.
The Midwest's largest collegiate fashion show returned to MegaCorp Pavilion, spotlighting senior Fashion Design collections from DAAP. Professional models, immersive visuals and a live set from DJ Boywife made the night one of Cincinnati's standout creative events of the season.
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Designed by D.J. Trischler, John Dixon, Matthew Furber and Brooke Brandewie, a new interactive kiosk let DAAPworks 2026 visitors snap a photo, pick a message like "Kudos" or "Thanks," and print it as a custom gratitude card. The installation turned a simple interaction into a moment of play, creativity and connection.
Photo/DAAP
June 17, 2026
ArtWorks founder Tamara Harkavy evaluated School of Art capstone projects during DAAPworks 2026 at the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP), selecting the Creative Impact Award to a standout graduating artist.
June 17, 2026
For 30 years, University of Cincinnati fashion show producer Laurie Wilson has transformed the annual DAAP fashion show into one of the Midwest’s premier student-run fashion events through creativity, resilience and community collaboration.
June 17, 2026
GBBN served as industry jury partner and presented Creative Impact Awards during DAAPworks 2026, recognizing exemplary architecture student projects at UC during the inaugural DAAPworks ceremony led by new DAAP Dean Stephanie Pilat.