MFA THESES EXHIBITIONS

TARA HOLBROOKS | LEGENDS OF HARMONIA

DEGREE AWARD DATE: SPRING 2025

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Tara Holbrooks is a graphic designer and illustrator based in Alabama. She came into design through her love of illustration, storytelling, and the joy of turning ordinary things into something magical. In 2022, she earned her BFA in Graphic Design from Jacksonville State University. Her work spans branding, illustration, publication, and interactive projects, and has been recognized with multiple Gold and Silver American Advertising Awards as well as other honors.

ARTIST'S STATEMENT

“Play is powerful.” This belief lies at the heart of Legends of Harmonia, a storytelling-based game designed to support emotional growth in children through pretend play. More than a thesis project, it’s a response to a world where connection is often traded for convenience, and emotional well-being is overlooked in early development.

Rooted in research and brought to life through illustration, narrative design, and collaborative mechanics, Legends of Harmonia invites players into a whimsical world shaped by empathy. Through this work, I explored how physical games can serve as meaningful tools for social connection, emotional learning, and resilience-building, especially when supported by thoughtful design.

This project reflects my belief that design is not just about what we create, but how it helps others grow.

THESIS PAPER