Murals, graffiti walls, a giant photo spot, and entryway graphics were on full display in the 2022 Circle of Excellence Design/Environmental Graphics category. 

When it comes to making a big impression, the team at the University of Guam may have said it best in describing its 70th anniversary mural: “It has to be big and bold, loud and proud.” That entry received a gold award, with the judges affirming it “hit on every level—high impact, beautiful execution, cultural significance, and immediate connection with its audience.” 

The Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, U.S., received a Grand Gold award for its graduation photo spots. With no in-person graduation in 2021 due to the pandemic, individual programs hosted their own virtual ceremonies. To make theirs more special, the Marriott School creative team set out to create multiple interactive, bold, and large photo spots throughout the school’s building. It was such a hit that staff say the graduation photo spots are here to stay.     

UC Davis, California, U.S., received two gold awards for big wall displays. One was for large-format wall/window graphics and light pole banners to promote its multi-year campaign, “Expect Greater: From UC Davis.” The other was awarded for its welcome center refresh, which the judges commended for “textures, colors, typography, and illustrations that all come together to create an environment that feels energetic and welcoming—a big plus for a welcome center!” 

Other institutions making big statements included the University of Alabama School of Health Professions, U.S., which earned a silver award for its mural and wellness project, a 28-foot-long interactive paint-by-number mural, which fostered camaraderie and provided art therapy. Another big wall at Ohio University, U.S., earned a bronze award for the “Forever OHIO Graffiti Wall Takeover.” The project helped introduce the university community to a new brand platform with a community painting experience.