The North Topeka Arts District always has something going on, and this month is no exception. Three ribbon cuttings, student art and two street bands are on the list for NOTO at the monthly First Friday Art Walk. This month’s is being held Friday, Sept. 7.

In the spring semester, Azyz Sharafy, associate professor at Washburn University, taught a class in graphic design and wanted to connect the students with the community. Eleven students were in contact with various businesses in the Topeka area to develop a real-world relationship, much like one they will have outside of school. They each created a poster that needed to be approved by the business before they could pass the class. This teaches students the importance of making the client happy,  giving them something they can use on their resume.

“This is an ongoing project and I hope it can be carried out every semester, connecting more and more students to Topeka community,” said Sharafy.  “It has been very successful for my students to get to work with real businesses and learn how to deal with real clients.”

The student work will be on display from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sept.7, at this month’s First Friday Art Walk in the NOTO Community Arts building. Students will be present as well as Sharafy and refreshments will be served.