OSU alumna named one of PRINT’s 15 visual artists under 30

Monday, November 25, 2024

Media Contact:
Jordan Bishop | Editor | 405-744-7193 | [email protected]

Ghazal Foroutan, who graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2021 with an MFA
in graphic design, was recently recognized as one of PRINT Magazine’s 15 Visual Artists
Under 30. 

The PRINT New Visual Artists competition highlights inventive young graphic designers,
focusing on those who create unique, innovative creations and technological prowess.
Foroutan’s work included an emphasis on social impact and women’s rights. She also
creates many designs in English and Farsi, blending the two languages. Her works are
often rooted in inspiring change because of her identity as an Iranian woman and an
immigrant. 

Foroutan was drawn to OSU’s master’s program because it allowed her to design and
conduct research simultaneously. She also loved the opportunity to do hands-on and
studio work. While the work was what initially attracted her to the program, she expressed
the most fond memories of her professors. 

“They remain my mentors to this day,” Foroutan said. “I still turn to them for guidance,
seek their advice, and rely on them as references for any job applications. They’re
truly some of the best people I’ve ever met. The group’s diversity was invaluable
— it brought together perspectives from a range of backgrounds, which deeply enriched
my research and the work I was doing.”

Some of Foroutan’s favorite experiences at OSU had to do with multicultural events,
including when she won Miss International OSU in 2018.

“This was the first environment I was in that was so diverse,” Foroutan said. “This
was a great opportunity to meet people from all over the world. We have a great international
student community.”

Foroutan’s experience as Miss International OSU connected her with various people.
She continues to communicate and stay in touch with some of the other competitors,
saying it was one of the most incredible experiences of her life.

One of Foroutan’s favorite things about her time as a master’s student was the opportunity
to pursue hands-on work. She recalled spending time in a studio space in Gundersen
Hall. She and several other graphic design students would spend day and night there,
working and researching with the help of professors. 

“It helped me look at design and art from a research perspective,” Foroutan said.
“It wasn’t client work like your typical billboard or logo, but more in-depth research
and being responsible and aware of the social impact a designer can have. It helped
me be more aware of ethical design, which I think was a critical takeaway for the
whole program.”

As for PRINT’s New Visual Artists competition, Foroutan said she was excited to be
recognized and was thankful her competitive nature led her to excel. 

“I was listening to this podcast the day before they emailed me,” Foroutan said. “While
listening to a podcast, I heard about an Iranian my age who had made it to the Forbes
30 Under 30 list. I felt so proud of his achievements, but it also made me reflect
on my own journey. As a woman of color who moved across the world in pursuit of a
better life, I know I often have to work a little harder to be seen and recognized.
Being on a list like that would have been a huge boost for my career, and I couldn’t
help but think, ‘Oh man, I wish I was on that list.’

“The very next day, as I was still caught up in those thoughts, I received an email
from PRINT magazine recognizing my work. I was on cloud nine. In that moment, I told
myself, ‘This is my 30 Under 30.’”

Story By:
Mak Vandruff | [email protected]