MTSU graphic Design student earns international recognition in illustration competition
Middle Tennessee State University Department of Art and Design graphic design student Lila Gordon has earned international recognition for her illustration work, bringing attention to both her individual talent and the strength of the university’s design program.
Gordon, a senior graphic design major, was selected for the 2026 Student Scholarship Competition hosted by the Society of Illustrators, one of the most respected organizations in the illustration industry. Out of more than 4,550 entries submitted from around the world, only 216 pieces were selected for exhibition, placing Gordon among the top student illustrators internationally.
Her selected piece, titled “A Little Fishy,” began as a class assignment and developed into a detailed digital illustration inspired by a summer study trip to Cincinnati. The artwork features stylized packaging of tinned fish and combines typography, color and intricate linework into a cohesive visual design.
“I decided to make an illustration that captured the beauty and variety of something seemingly mundane,” Gordon said. “I enjoyed illustrating all the intricate details of the cans and adding my own stylized twist.”
The project was created during a three-week summer course called “Design Camp,” led by Associate Professor Noël Lorson. The course combines travel and hands-on design work, allowing students to explore a city for inspiration before creating projects based on their observations and collected resources.
“It’s an amazing piece that combines typography, image and color and deserves to be recognized,” Lorson said. “When the entire faculty works together to educate students throughout their academic careers, you see results like this.”
Associate Professor Tony Rodriguez encouraged Gordon to submit the piece to the competition and supported her professional development throughout the process.
“Having your work recognized by the Society of Illustrators means it meets a professional, industry-wide standard,” Rodriguez said. “It’s validation from the same people who are hiring and commissioning work.”
Rodriguez said Gordon’s discipline and work ethic have contributed significantly to her success.
“She submits work early, her ideas are strong, and her drive to create exceptional work is what truly sets her apart,” he said.
For Gordon, the recognition was unexpected.
“I was absolutely shocked when I found out, and thrilled my work made it in,” she said.
Although the award did not include a monetary prize, being selected for the exhibition carries significant prestige within the illustration industry. Winning entries are showcased in New York and viewed by art directors, agencies and publishers, often leading to freelance opportunities and professional connections.
Gordon said her experience at MTSU has helped prepare her for the next stage of her career.
“I’ve gained so much invaluable knowledge from the design classes I’ve taken and built lasting connections with my peers and professors,” she said.
