BRAD RUDER '92
Ruder, a graphic designer who lives and works in Wichita, was selected to create this year’s Tallgrass poster after coming up with a bold concept for members of the film festival’s marketing committee
to consider.
“The theme they have promoted this year is ‘Stubbornly Independent,’” Ruder says. “They asked for ideas to emphasize the phrase. I wanted to illustrate a strong, independent person lifting their film high, with attitude and confidence. Emily Mitchell was kind enough to model for the photograph that I used for reference. She did a great job, and I’m happy with the way the illustration has turned out.”
Ruder explains that the style is influenced by Russian Constructivism and propaganda posters, but that “the feeling is meant to reflect the positive qualities of hard work, determination and independence that you would expect from people in Mid-America, where the festival is being held. That being said, the artwork also contains a sense of fun and subversiveness that people have really responded well to, and my hope is that it adds to the entertainment and promotion of the event.”
Ruder graduated from Wichita State with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design.Through his company, Ruder Design, he creates websites, identity and print design. He’s also the founder and gallery director for Tangent Lab, an art gallery located in Old Town.
University Friend Dan Glickman Honored with Ad Astra Award
Dan Glickman, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America, former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Kansas Congressman and Wichita native, was honored with the Ad Astra Award at the 2008 film festival. The MPAA serves as the voice and advocate of the American motion picture, home video and television industries.
The Ad Astra award, named for the state's motto, “Ad Astra Per Aspera,” or “To the stars through difficulty,” is presented each year to an individual who makes significant contributions to the art and process of moviemaking. "It is a great privilege to be receiving the Ad Astra Award in my hometown of Wichita,” Glickman says.
