Marketing major Julia Davis wins Eagle Fest Wings of the Year art contest

Discovering or rekindling passions during college can be a rewarding experience. For Julia Davis, reconnecting with her love for art led to her original work being selected as the winning piece for the UWL Eagle Fest Wings of the Year art competition.

"I've loved art all my life," Davis,a senior marketing major,says. "Some of my earliest memories are coloring with my sister in coloring books."

During K-12, Davis took art classes every year but never considered art for her professional career.

"When I got to college, I realized how much I missed taking art classes and how it was the time of my day I looked forward to the most," Davis continues. "Soon after, I purchased an iPad and started creating digital art, then enrolled in the Introduction to Digital Art and Design course here. I immediately fell back in love with art and realized how relevant it can be in the marketing area of work."

Eagle Fest Committee member Kaylie Connaughty shares that Julia's design was chosen for its unique representation of an Eagle, its connection to the Coulee Region and the insightful message behind the artwork.

"When I think about the wings of an Eagle, I think about the scenery that could be seen from flying that high, but also what can be missed by not spending time exploring on our feet," Davis explains. She was inspired by one of her favorite spots: the riverside at sunset. Davis says the riverside reminds us that we do not have to climb high to see the beauty of the city; the beauty comes from moments with whom we surround ourselves within the city itself.

"I created this design for the new students at Eagle Fest who have yet to explore the beauty of La Crosse. This design is meant to inspire them to find their spots that remind them of the beauty of being a student at UWL, and the possibilities that follow each sunset."

In addition to Davis' artwork being displayed on the Student Union window (north side), digital signs, posters, and T-shirts available for purchase during Eagle Fest, Davis is also involved in the behind-the-scenes planning of the event with the Campus Activities Board (CAB).

"My favorite thing about Eagle Fest is that students can explore their interests while also spending time with friends and enjoying the beautiful fall weather," Davis shares. "It's a wonderful way to learn more about our campus while also being in a comfortable and exciting environment."

Davis is an active member of the UWL community. She is involved in CAB and the Women in Business Club, and works at the Murphy Learning Center as a statistics tutor.

"I love the opportunities that UWL creates for students," Davis says. "Through my years here, I have explored my interests by joining clubs and applying for jobs, which have led me to taking specific courses and meeting new people. I feel significantly more prepared for my professional career, and I could not be more thankful for how much I have developed throughout my education."

As she enters her final year at UWL, Davis looks forward to more opportunities to share her artwork and contribute to university events. Keep an eye out for her artwork at Eagle Fest on Sept. 6!

Learn more about Eagle Fest.