An exhibition showcasing artwork by CCBC Essex art students is on display through March 27, 2026, in The Gallery at CCBC Essex. The exhibition, entitled “Becoming 2026,” showcases work by students in the art department’s capstone course, Portfolio Development. The course prepares stude nts for the next steps in their art and design careers by helping them learn how to prepare a professional portfolio. Students learn how to revise and discuss their work and analyze which pieces to include in their portfolio. The class also helps students prepare for interviews, create resumés, and introduces the basics of the business aspects of freelancing and client relationships. Curated by David Zobel, “Becoming 2026” demonstrates what students have learned and achieved during their time at the college. The show includes works by nine students: Freddy Baker, Illustration/Fine Art; Sumaiya-Alee Goumaa, Fine Art/Henna; Alex Kight, Illustration; Tanner Malinowski, Graphic Design; Emily Morey, Illustration; Kelly Piscopo, Illustration; Jordan Rigsby, Fine Art; Caroline Surak, Fine Art/Graphic Design, and Yaffa Urszuy, Illustration. There will be an evening reception open to the public on Friday, Feb. 20, from 6–8 p.m., in The Gallery at CCBC Essex, located in the Arts Humanities Hall, 7201 Rossville, Blvd.  Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artists, hear about their creative processes, and enjoy the artwork up close. Visitors can vote their favorite pieces of art and watch the presentation of awards for artworks in several categories. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit The Galleries at CCBC/Essex website. ...read more read less