Retired Allan Hancock College graphic design professor Nancy Jo Ward has been selected to exhibit her mixed-media work at the XV Florence Biennale in Florence, Italy, Oct. 18–26, 2025.
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SANTA MARIA — Retired Allan Hancock College Graphic Design Professor Nancy Jo Ward has been selected to exhibit her mixed-media work at the XV Florence Biennale in Florence, Italy, Oct. 18–26, 2025.
Ward, who recently concluded 27 years of service at Hancock, will present three works— titled Anna-Louise, Katerina and Selia—at the prestigious international exhibition. Her invitation places her among an international roster of more than 500 artists and designers more than 80 countries.
Ward’s practice blends digital technology with traditional materials to explore psychological portraiture, memory, identity and the aesthetics of post-internet culture, an approach that aligns with the Biennale 2025 theme, “The Eternal Union Between Light and Darkness.”
“I am honored to have my work included in this vibrant international dialogue at the Florence Biennale, which fosters curiosity, expression and meaningful cultural exchange,” said Ward. “Art, as a universal language, allows me to create a dialogue between the individual and the collective—exploring memory, identity and the dynamic interplay of light and darkness within the human experience.”
Ward retired from Allan Hancock College this year after a distinguished career that included teaching graphic design, serving on college councils and committees, helping to launch the Faculty Innovation Fund and organizing the college’s first-ever AI summit. She plans to continue creating and exhibiting artwork.
Ward’s recent exhibition record includes international and national venues; her mixed-media work has been noted for innovative hybrid techniques that “mix past and present” while engaging contemporary culture.
“Nancy Jo Ward exemplifies the talent, creativity and caliber of the faculty at our college,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Her selection for the Florence Biennale reflects not only her personal artistic achievement, but also the kind of innovation and excellence she inspired in her students throughout her career.”
For more information about Nancy Jo Ward and her work, visit nancyjoward.com