Providence Journal photo / Frieda Squires
RISD graduates receive their diplomas as fellow graduates beneath colorful mortar boards watch
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The Rhode Island School of Design graduated 659 students Saturday during a ceremony lasting more than two hours at the Rhode Island Convention Center.As could be expected for one of the nation's top design and art schools, many students ditched the traditional black cap-and-gown, marching across the platform to receive their diplomas wearing everything from elaborate robot-like costumes and medieval attire to summer dresses and plain old T-shirt and jeans.
Maira Kalman, who has written and illustrated children's books and is a frequent cover artist and contributor to The New Yorker, delivered the keynote address.
She shared with the 197 graduate and 462 undergraduate students some of pearls of wisdom.
"The least unknown can bring profound joy," Kalman said. "To care passionately about your work will keep you happy," she said later.
U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline, a Brown University graduate, encouraged students to remain in Rhode Island and contribute to its thriving arts scene.
And Providence Mayor Angel Taveras quoted from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."