Old gig posters, grainy textures, and song lyrics filled with angst, senior graphic design student Lily Deskis brings the emo music scene to life on the pages of her latest art project, “Think Happy Thoughts,” created this semester at Rowan University.

The miniature 20-page publication wasn’t just a class assignment. It’s a visual love letter to the music and aesthetic that has shaped their creative identity. Deskis, a studio art major with a concentration in graphic design, blends raw textures, DIY punk nostalgia, and their deeply rooted passion in a project that’s not just creative but educational.

“I wanted it to look like something someone would’ve stapled together and handed out at a show,” Deskis said. “It’s super messy on purpose, super emotional, and definitely DIY inspired.” 

Deskis is no stranger to doing it themself. Along with their five studio class workload, they also serve as the president of the Gallery, Rowan’s art and literature publication. Although challenging, they manage to balance their leadership position, academic deadlines, and personal creative projects with a sharp focus, though they admit that’s not always easy. 

“Balancing everything is really difficult,” Deskis said.”Last semester was a lot more challenging, but this time around I’ve been more focused on finding that balance. I’ve actually done less homework some weeks, but things are going better. I think making time for yourself is part of being successful.” 

Like many involved in creative fields, Deskis isn’t immune to creative blocks. When they hit a block, they manage to lean into that unsettling feeling and wait for the right moment for a breakthrough.

“I wish I had a better method, but I kind of just sit with and push through,” said Deskis.”I get stuck all the time, especially because I’m constantly having to produce work for classes. But eventually, something clicks and something feels right.”

For Deskis, design isn’t just a skill, it’s a way of communicating things that can’t necessarily be expressed through words. Their aesthetic leans heavily into the gritty and layeredness of early 2000s emo and punk iconography. A visual reflection of the music Deskis grew up listening to and still finds themselves immersed in today. 

They cite zine culture and handmade art books as inspirations for both “Think Happy Thoughts” and their broader artistic approach. Deskis also sees their work as part of a larger picture. After graduation this spring, Deskis hopes to work in-house for a design company or creative agency while continuing to freelance and do gallery work on the side. 

“I want to be able to balance all of my creative interests at once,” Deskis said. “That’s the dream.”

Deskis is currently still finalizing their professional portfolio and website before applying for jobs, but they aren’t a stranger to work experience. Most recently, Deskis completed an internship last summer and is currently focused on building out that resume and their personal brand as an essential step in the competitive design field.

Despite their hard work ethic, Deskis tries to carve out time outside of class and design to allocate to their friends and fun. 

“I love going to shows, especially around here [Glassboro] and in Philly,” said Deskis. “A lot of my friends are in bands, so I’m excited to have more time after graduation.”

For now, Deskis is still soaking in those last final weeks before commencement at Rowan. Pushing through projects and refining their artistry while making time and space for the things that bring them the most joy. 

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