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The Official Campus Newsletter of Housatonic Community College
November 2024
 
07 Jul

A conversation with John Favret

Professor of Graphic Design, Coordinator of the Art Program

Professor John Favret credits a Certificate in Computer Graphics from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with opening ‘all doors in life’. Prior to that certificate, John had earned a BA from Bridgewater State College and an MFA from East Texas State University, and worked at Sears in retail displays and management.

“I can relate to our HCC students’ need to stand on their own feet. I got a job as a maintenance worker at a hospital to pay for college. I went to East Texas State University because I was offered a scholarship,” said John.

Unfulfilled at Sears, John earned the computer graphics certificate at RISD and immediately put his skills to use. He worked as a graphic designer at Rastergraph in Jewett City, Connecticut, and later worked at Chambers Engraving and Midagraphics specializing in color separation. While working, John taught at museums and in RISD’s continuing education program.

In 1999 he joined HCC and hasn’t looked back. His favorite part of teaching is working with the students, challenging them to exceed their expectations.

“Being able to connect with students and give them something to strive for helps them realize that they can do this. Some students come in with a fear of what they can’t do. I help them understand that it is within their grasp,” said John.

During his time at HCC, John established the ‘Courtyard Art Festival,’ now in it’s 21st year. His students participate in Cabaret Nights, and as the advisor to the Art Club, students also have the opportunity to join in the HCC Theater Arts InterACTion Symposium.

In addition to teaching a variety of graphic design and studio art courses, John is HCC’s Art Program Coordinator. He is also the Chair of the Center for the Arts Committee, and a member/coordinator of the graphic design advisory committee and the fine arts advisory committee.

“I do it because I try to make the school a better place,” he said.

John currently lives in Uncasville, Connecticut with his wife, where he has an art studio and continues to paint. He has exhibited in galleries in San Francisco, Dallas, Boston, New York, and New Haven. He also exhibits in national, regional, and local exhibitions. He plays music, loves to travel and considers himself an adventurer.